KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the BSUN Olive offer unique experiences for typists to consider. The Cabbage Tofu is a linear switch that stands out for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring providing a swift rebound after actuation. This switch offers a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, falling under categories such as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Snappy'. On the other hand, the BSUN Olive is a tactile switch known for its all-POM housings that deliver a resonant, deep sound. With pronounced tactile feedback and a unique design featuring a long pole stem for a crisp bottom-out, typists are sure to enjoy the 'Accented', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy' qualities of this switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Bsun Olive offer distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Cabbage Tofu's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffness, while the Olive's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. Both materials have their unique qualities, with the polycarbonate being more resonant and the POM creating a more pleasing sound. However, they cater to different preferences in sound output.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Cabbage Tofu's nylon bottom housing provides a fuller and deeper sound when typing due to its softer nature and ability to absorb sound. On the other hand, the Olive's POM bottom housing offers a similar deep and muted sound profile. Despite the differences in the top housing materials, both switches share a common ground with their bottom housing materials. This indicates that users can expect a similar sound experience in terms of depth and resonance when typing on either switch.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of the bottom housing will be felt more during the pressing down of the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Cabbage Tofu and the Bsun Olive may differ in their top housing materials, their bottom housing materials play a significant role in influencing the overall sound profile and typing feel of the switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, we find that both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Cabbage Tofu has a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it lighter compared to the Olive, which has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it heavier. The Cabbage Tofu offers a medium-light typing experience, while the Olive provides a medium-heavy feel. When considering weight, some users may appreciate the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Cabbage Tofu for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier feel of the Bsun Olive for a stronger push sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force in relation to typing style and comfort.
Travel distance
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Bsun Olive has a shorter travel distance compared to the KTT Cabbage Tofu. The Cabbage Tofu's 4 mm distance is more traditional but may feel slightly slower for those used to shorter distances. On the other hand, the Olive's 3.4 mm distance is shallower, providing a quicker response time which is favored by gamers. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their varying travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of quickness versus depth.
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 Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive tactile switch offers a resonant, deep sound due to its all-POM housings. While the Cabbage Tofu may provide a sharper and brighter sound profile, the Olive switch delivers a more rich and bassy auditory experience that sets it apart.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is described as creamy, polished, silky, and snappy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with enhanced smoothness and responsiveness. In contrast, the Bsun Olive tactile switch is characterized by being accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a pronounced feedback and a distinct tactile bump with each keypress. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile experience, with the Cabbage Tofu focusing more on smoothness and the Olive emphasizing pronounced feedback and tactile response.
In conclusion, while the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch offer different sound and feel profiles, they both provide a unique and satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Cabbage Tofu excels in delivering a clacky and high-pitched sound with a creamy and snappy feel, while the Olive stands out with its resonant deep sound and accented, sharp tactility. Depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, users can choose between these two switches to achieve similar results in terms of quality and performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch or the Bsun Olive tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference for typing experience. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a swift rebound after actuation, along with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, then the Cabbage Tofu switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and pronounced tactile feedback with a resonant, deep sound, along with a variety of tactile descriptors like accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, then the Olive switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision should be based on the typing feel and sound profile that best suits your preferences and typing style.
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