KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch both offer unique advantages. The Cabbage Tofu stands out with its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring that provides a swift rebound after actuation. Typists will appreciate the quick transition between keystrokes and the sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold switch offers a clicky feedback that some users prefer, but lacks specific standout features. While the Cabbage Tofu is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Snappy', the Gold switch does not fall into any particular category. 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
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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 Gold both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it useful for switches designed to utilize RGB lighting. The similar use of polycarbonate in both switches ensures that users can expect comparable sound profiles and aesthetics when typing on either keyboard.
In contrast, the Cabbage Tofu utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper sound profile. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches showcases a preference for a softer material that contributes to the overall sound and feel of typing.
Overall, the differences between the housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Outemu Gold lie in their bottom housings, with both keyboards featuring polycarbonate top housings. While the polycarbonate top housings create a similar sharp and crisp sound profile, the nylon bottom housings offer distinct typing experiences with deeper and fuller sound profiles. Whether users prefer a sharper sound with the Cabbage Tofu or a rounder sound with the Outemu Gold, both keyboards provide unique acoustic qualities based on their housing materials.
Weight
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch have similar actuation forces of 45 grams, providing a light and responsive typing experience for users. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cabbage Tofu requires 53 grams while the Gold switch needs 60 grams, making the Gold switch slightly heavier. Those who prefer a lighter touch when typing may gravitate towards the Cabbage Tofu for extended use without fatigue, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Outemu Gold switch for a more pronounced keystroke. Overall, both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individual preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users will experience a similar key press feel in terms of distance traveled when using either switch. The similarity in travel distance allows for consistent typing experiences between the two switches. Therefore, both the Cabbage Tofu and Gold switches offer the same key press depth, making them equal in this aspect.
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 Gold 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, delivering a sharp and percussive sound reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch's sound profile is unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cabbage Tofu switch is described as creamy, silky, polished, and snappy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance and enhanced responsiveness. Meanwhile, the feel of the Outemu Gold switch is unknown. If both switches offer similar characteristics in terms of feel, typists can expect a smooth and snappy typing experience with reduced friction and a sleek finish.
In conclusion, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch stands out for its clacky sound profile, swift rebound after actuation, and smooth typing experience with enhanced tactility. On the other hand, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Gold clicky switch remain undisclosed, so it is challenging to make a direct comparison. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel, as well as compatibility with the overall keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch or the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a smoother and more tactile typing experience with a swift rebound after actuation, then the Cabbage Tofu switch may be the right choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Cabbage Tofu switch can provide that auditory satisfaction. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a different sound and feel, the Outemu Gold clicky switch may be the better option for you. Considering factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel will help you make an informed decision on which switch will best suit your needs. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches is a personal one, and whichever switch you choose, you can be sure to enhance your typing experience with a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch.
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