KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple

Overview

When comparing the linear KTT Cabbage Tofu switch to the clicky Outemu Dustproof Purple switch, there are distinct differences in their performance and characteristics. The Cabbage Tofu switch stands out for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring that provides a swift rebound after actuation. Typists will experience a quicker transition between keystrokes with a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple switch does not have any standout features but is known for its satisfying clicky feedback. While the Cabbage Tofu switch is described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Snappy', the Dustproof Purple switch does not have any specific categorizations. When deciding between these two switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference for either a linear switch with enhanced tactility or a clicky switch with satisfying feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

Outemu Dustproof Purple Tactile

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Outemu Dustproof Purple share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to incorporate RGB lighting. This commonality in housing material ensures that users can expect similar sound qualities and aesthetic features from both switches.

However, the differences in the nylon bottom housing between the Cabbage Tofu and the Dustproof Purple provide distinct characteristics to each switch. The Cabbage Tofu's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder tone. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple's nylon bottom housing offers a similar deep and full sound but with its own unique touch. The variation in bottom housing materials allows users to experience different typing sensations and sound profiles depending on the switch they choose.

Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in the Cabbage Tofu and Dustproof Purple switches results in a nuanced typing experience. While they both feature polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound, the distinction in their nylon bottom housing affects the overall sound profile and typing feel. Whether users prefer a sharper sound with the Cabbage Tofu or a slightly different tone with the Dustproof Purple, both switches provide a customizable and dynamic keyboard experience based on their housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, we can see that the Cabbage Tofu requires a lighter touch with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and bottom out force of 65 grams, giving it a medium-heavy feel. The Cabbage Tofu is the lighter option, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Dustproof Purple provides a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to the preferences of users who may prefer either a lighter or heavier touch.

Travel distance

The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This can result in a similar typing experience in terms of the physical feedback received from each switch. Despite being equal in travel distance, the Cabbage Tofu is a linear switch without tactile feedback, while the Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch that provides audible and tactile feedback upon actuation. So, while the travel distance is the same for both switches, the typing experience they offer will differ based on the type of feedback they provide.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, resembling Mahjong tiles colliding. This gives typists a sharp and snappy auditory feedback, making each keystroke more crisp and percussive. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch's sound characteristics are unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. Remember that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is praised for its creamy, polished, silky feel, providing typists with a smooth and buttery typing experience. The application of lubricant in the switch at the factory contributes to this sensation, creating a glide-like feeling as fingers effortlessly melt into each keystroke. Additionally, the longer 22mm spring in the Cabbage Tofu switch enhances its snappy and responsive feel, making the typing experience feel more alive. Unfortunately, the feel descriptors for the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch are not provided, making it challenging to compare their tactile qualities directly.

Taking all available information into account, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch stands out for its clacky, high-pitched sound profile and creamy, polished, silky feel. With its improved tactility and responsiveness, typists can expect a swift rebound after actuation, allowing for a quicker transition between keystrokes. The Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch's subjective qualities remain unknown, so if you are looking for a switch with similar characteristics to the Cabbage Tofu, opting for them may provide comparable results. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound and feel, as well as the desired typing experience.

Conclusion

Therefore, when choosing between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a swift rebound after actuation, leading to a quicker transition between keystrokes, the Cabbage Tofu switch may be the right choice for you. Additionally, if you appreciate a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, along with a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch can provide a smooth and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a clicky switch without the need for dustproofing, the Dustproof Purple switch may be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and what features you prioritize in a keyboard switch.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Dustproof Purple Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more