KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Cabbage Tofu, a linear switch, and the Outemu Crystal Brown, a tactile switch. The Cabbage Tofu switch stands out for its enhanced tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its unique 22mm spring that offers a swift rebound after actuation, allowing for quick transitions between keystrokes. Users often describe the sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu as reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, with characteristics such as being clacky, creamy, high-pitched, polished, silky, and snappy. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown switch from Outemu doesn't have a standout feature but is known for its tactile feedback. It falls under the category of tactile switches, providing users with a satisfying physical bump when the key is actuated. While these are general pointers for choosing between the two switches, diving deeper into their specifics will help you determine the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Outemu Crystal Brown feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate results in a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for those looking for a more defined sound experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both switches utilize nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This allows for a more muted typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a quieter keyboard.
While both switches have similar top and bottom housing materials, the impact of each material is felt differently when typing. The bottom housing plays a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This split in qualities between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a well-rounded typing experience that combines the benefits of both polycarbonate and nylon.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch reveals some interesting differences. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of initial keystroke trigger. However, the Cabbage Tofu has a bottom out force of 53 grams, slightly lighter than the Crystal Brown which has a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Cabbage Tofu offers a slightly lighter typing experience overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Cabbage Tofu may be the better choice. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown provides a slightly more substantial typing feel with its heavier bottom out force, appealing to those who enjoy a bit more resistance in their keystrokes for a more tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience a consistent distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Despite having different switch types (linear vs. tactile), the travel distance remains the same for both the Cabbage Tofu and the Crystal Brown switches. This similarity ensures that users can expect a consistent feel and response from either switch, making them both reliable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
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 Outemu Crystal Brown comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a distinctive sound profile, often described as clacky and high-pitched. This means that when typing on a keyboard outfitted with these switches, you can expect a sharp and snappy sound with each key press. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch's sound profile is unknown, but keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Cabbage Tofu is known for offering a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. This means that typists can expect smooth and buttery key presses, reduced friction, and overall enhanced smoothness in their typing. As for the Crystal Brown switch, the feel is yet to be determined, but it's important to note that the typing experience can also be affected by factors such as lubrication and materials used in the switch.
In conclusion, while the sound and feel of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch are well-established as clacky, high-pitched, creamy, polished, silky, and snappy, the information available for the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is limited. If you are looking for a switch with similar characteristics to the Cabbage Tofu, you may expect comparable results in sound and feel. However, it is always recommended to try out different switches to find the one that suits your typing preferences best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, you should consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, along with a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, then the Cabbage Tofu switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize tactility and responsiveness without a specific sound profile preference, the Crystal Brown switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and overall keyboard experience goals.
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