KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream, both of which are linear switches. The Cabbage Tofu switch stands out for its improved tactility and responsiveness. With its lengthened 22mm spring, typists will experience a swift rebound after actuation, enabling 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 Cream switch offers a notably heavier linear typing experience. Typing on these switches produces a deep sound profile, creating a satisfying auditory feedback. Both switches have their unique attributes and sound profiles, making them desirable choices for different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.

By the numbers

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches have distinct differences in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Cabbage Tofu utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream features a POM top housing, offering a unique and pleasing sound profile on the deeper side. This material produces a relatively more muted sound compared to polycarbonate.

In terms of the bottom housing material, the Cabbage Tofu relies on nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer nature allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the NovelKeys Cream utilizes a POM bottom housing, further enhancing its deep and muted sound profile. Therefore, both switches share similarities in their bottom housing materials, providing a similar sound experience.

When considering the impact of the different housing materials during usage, it's important to note that the bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. The qualities of the nylon bottom housing in the Cabbage Tofu, such as the deeper sound profile, can be distinctly felt while typing. Additionally, the top housing material plays a role in the sound when you release a key. The polycarbonate top housing in the Cabbage Tofu contributes to a crisper sound upon key release. Similarly, the POM top housing of the NovelKeys Cream adds to the overall sound experience when lifting your finger off a key. Overall, while the housing materials differ, both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their respective top and bottom housings.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch to the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Cabbage Tofu has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, whereas the NovelKeys Cream requires a slightly heavier 55 grams to trigger a keystroke. This means that the Cabbage Tofu will provide a slightly lighter feel when typing, allowing for longer periods of uninterrupted typing, making it ideal for those who need to use the keyboard for extended periods at work or during gaming sessions. In contrast, the NovelKeys Cream has a heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial push feel and a potentially more satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the Cabbage Tofu has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the NovelKeys Cream has a higher bottom out force of 70 grams, indicating that the NovelKeys Cream requires more force to fully press down the key. Overall, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Cabbage Tofu, while those seeking a stronger and more substantial push feel may prefer the NovelKeys Cream.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of 4 mm from the top of the switch to the bottom. Therefore, whether you choose the Cabbage Tofu or the NovelKeys Cream switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. The sound produced is sharp, snappy, and crisp, reminiscent of the collision of Mahjong tiles. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch has a low-pitched and resonant sound profile. The sound is clean, sharp, and bass-heavy, providing a more immersive auditory experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch provides a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. This switch is smooth, refined, and offers reduced friction, resulting in a sleek typing sensation. The effortless gliding of fingers across the keys, along with the swift rebound after actuation, makes for a truly responsive and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switch offers a buttery, textured, and invigorating typing experience. It provides a seamless, fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force.

Considering the available information, it is evident that both the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cabbage Tofu switch gives a clacky and high-pitched sound with a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing feel. In contrast, the NovelKeys Cream switch produces a low-pitched and resonant sound with a buttery, textured, and invigorating typing experience.

Although different in their characteristics, if one desires a sharper and crisper sound with a smoother and buttery typing sensation, they can achieve similar results with either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference and the overall typing experience one seeks to achieve.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, there are a few key factors to consider.

If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a swift rebound after actuation, and a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, the Cabbage Tofu switch may be the right choice for you. It offers improved tactility and responsiveness, making transitions between keystrokes quicker.

On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a fairly deep sound profile, the NovelKeys Cream switch might be more suitable. It provides a heftier linear typing experience and a sound that is deeper than the average switch, but not overly so.

In terms of sound, the Cabbage Tofu switch is described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. Conversely, the NovelKeys Cream switch is described as low-pitched and resonant, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone with a clean and sharp sound profile.

When it comes to feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch is described as creamy, polished, silky, and snappy. It offers a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction, smooth key travel, and enhanced smoothness and responsiveness. In contrast, the NovelKeys Cream switch is described as buttery, textured, and invigorating. It provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel.

Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences. Assessing your desired bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel will help guide you towards selecting the switch that best suits your needs and preferences.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

Learn more

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more