KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a wide variety of options to choose from. Two popular choices are the KTT Cabbage Tofu, a linear switch, and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, a tactile switch. The Cabbage Tofu switch is well-known for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring. Typists will appreciate the swift rebound after actuation, allowing for a quicker transition between keystrokes. Additionally, the sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu switch resembles the satisfying collision of Mahjong tiles. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch stands out for its very sharp tactile bump, providing a distinct typing feel for enthusiasts who prefer a sharper tactile experience. Additionally, the Blueberry switch produces a lower-than-average sound frequency, which is deeper than average but not "thocky." As with any keyboard switch, it's essential to go beyond generalities and dive deeper into the specific characteristics and preferences to make the best switch decision for your typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches differ in terms of the top housing material. The Cabbage Tofu utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, allowing for a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for users who plan to incorporate RGB lighting into their setup. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry features a POM top housing, which creates a sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted. While both materials contribute to a pleasing and unique sound, the Blueberry's POM top housing offers a distinct deeper tone compared to the Cabbage Tofu's polycarbonate top housing.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Cabbage Tofu utilizes a nylon housing, while the NovelKeys Blueberry features a POM housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches that use nylon housing. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Blueberry also contributes to a pleasing and unique sound, with a deeper tone and muted characteristics. Although both housing materials create a distinct auditory experience, nylon offers a slightly duller and rounder sound compared to POM.
When considering the overall typing experience, the different housing materials in the top and bottom of the switches have varying impacts. The qualities brought by the bottom housing will be more noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, regardless of the specific housing materials used, both the Cabbage Tofu and the Blueberry switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to individual preferences and contribute to an enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, there are noticeable differences between the two. The Cabbage Tofu has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, meaning less effort is required to trigger a keystroke compared to the Blueberry's 55 grams. Both switches have a medium-light bottom out force with the Cabbage Tofu measuring at 53 grams and the Blueberry at a heavier 80 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cabbage Tofu would be the better choice as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. This can be beneficial for individuals who type for longer periods of time, such as those who use their keyboards for work or engage in extended gaming sessions.
On the other hand, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Blueberry would be a suitable option. With its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, it offers a more tactile and satisfying sensation while typing.
In summary, the Cabbage Tofu is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Blueberry, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. However, those seeking a more robust typing experience may favor the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Blueberry.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is the same, with both having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on either key, you will experience a consistent 4 mm distance of travel. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, the results you will get from both switches will be similar. Neither switch has a shorter or longer travel distance compared to the other, making them equal in this aspect.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cabbage Tofu has an MSRP of $3.25 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cabbage Tofu for $2.75.
The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
The sound profile of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch can be described as clacky and high-pitched. When pressed, these switches produce a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the sound of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is low-pitched and resonant. Typing on these switches results in a deeper-than-average sound frequency that is clean and sharp, providing an immersive auditory experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Cabbage Tofu and NovelKeys Blueberry switches are described as snappy. This indicates that they are super responsive and provide a lively typing experience. This responsiveness is often achieved through longer or dual-staged springs. Additionally, the Cabbage Tofu switch is also described as creamy, polished, and silky, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The NovelKeys Blueberry switch, on the other hand, is described as buttery, invigorating, and stiff. Typing on these switches provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform sensation, with pronounced feedback and a higher actuation force required.
In conclusion, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cabbage Tofu switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound, along with a creamy, polished, and silky feel. On the other hand, the Blueberry switch produces a low-pitched and resonant sound, while providing a buttery, invigorating, and stiff feel. This means that users can expect different auditory and typing experiences depending on the switch chosen. However, both switches offer a snappy feel, which indicates their responsiveness and liveliness.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a swift and responsive typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch would be an excellent choice. With its lengthened 22mm spring, you can expect a quick rebound after actuation, allowing for a smoother transition between keystrokes. Additionally, the sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu is described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed.
On the other hand, if you prefer a heavy bottom out force and love a sharp tactile bump while typing, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is the way to go. These switches offer a very sharp tactile feel, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a pronounced feedback. The sound profile of the Blueberry switches is described as low-pitched and resonant, delivering a clean and sharp auditory experience.
When it comes to the feel, both switches offer a snappy typing experience, making them super responsive. However, the Cabbage Tofu switch is described as creamy, polished, silky, and snappy, providing a smooth and buttery typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch is described as snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff. These switches offer a seamless, effortless typing feel with pronounced feedback and a higher amount of force required to actuate.
Ultimately, your choice between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch will depend on your preferences for bottom out force, typing feel, and sound profile. Consider your desired typing experience and select the switch that aligns with your preferences.
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