KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean both offer a linear typing experience. The Cabbage Tofu switch stands out for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its 22mm spring that provides a swift rebound after actuation, resulting in a smooth transition between keystrokes. Users of the Cabbage Tofu switch often describe its sound profile as reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, with characteristics such as being clacky, creamy, high-pitched, polished, silky, and snappy. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch does not have a specific standout feature. For those looking for a silent linear switch, the Dustproof Silent Ocean may be a more suitable choice. 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
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
The housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean are quite similar as they both feature polycarbonate top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. This material is also translucent, making it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, the key difference lies in their bottom housings. The Cabbage Tofu utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar effect of a rounder and duller sound.
Despite having different bottom housings, the top housings of these switches play a significant role in the overall typing experience. The top housing material affects the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing material has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. With both switches having polycarbonate top housings, they will produce similar sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profiles when keys are released. Additionally, the nylon bottom housings of both switches will contribute to a deeper and fuller typing sound, creating a more tactile typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches such as the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean can significantly impact the typing experience. While both switches utilize polycarbonate top housings for a clear and resonant sound, their nylon bottom housings provide a different tactile feel during typing. Ultimately, whether you prefer a sharper sound profile from a stiffer polycarbonate material or a deeper sound from a softer nylon material, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch provide different typing experiences. The Cabbage Tofu has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean's 45 grams, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions. However, the bottom out force of the Cabbage Tofu is 53 grams, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. The actuation force is the same for both switches, ensuring a similar initial typing experience, but the difference in bottom out force gives users the option to choose between a lighter or heavier typing feel based on their preferences. Ultimately, the weight of the keys plays a significant role in determining which switch is more suitable for individual typing habits and preferences.
Travel distance
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, whereas the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Cabbage Tofu has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean. The 4 mm travel distance of the Cabbage Tofu is more traditional, while the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Dustproof Silent Ocean is shallower. Gamers may prefer the Dustproof Silent Ocean for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more robust feeling may opt for the Cabbage Tofu with its longer travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a different tactile experience based on their travel distances, with the Cabbage Tofu providing a slightly deeper press compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean.
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 Dustproof Silent Ocean 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed, similar to Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch does not have any specific sound descriptors available, making it difficult to compare directly. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cabbage Tofu switch is praised for its creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. This means users can expect a smooth and buttery sensation while typing, with reduced friction and a responsive feel due to its longer spring. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the feel of the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch, making it challenging to make a direct comparison.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, as well as a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch would be an excellent choice. However, if you are interested in a quieter option with unknown tactile qualities, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch might also be worth considering. Keep in mind that personal preferences, typing style, and the overall keyboard setup will play a significant role in your ultimate typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, consider your preference for typing force and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams and enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and prioritize a smooth and silent typing experience, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch might be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics.