KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch with the Outemu Red linear switch, it is clear that they both offer unique features for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Cabbage Tofu is praised for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring that provides a swift rebound after actuation. Typists will appreciate the quicker transition between keystrokes and the sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Outemu Red does not have a standout feature like the Cabbage Tofu, but it is still a reliable linear switch. While the Cabbage Tofu is described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Snappy', the Outemu Red is not categorized in any specific way. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 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 Red switches share some similarities. Both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both switches provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite the similarities in housing materials between the Cabbage Tofu and the Outemu Red switches, the distribution of qualities brought by each material differs. In a switch where the top and bottom housings are different, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This means that while both switches may share similar sound profiles due to their housing materials, the overall typing experience may vary based on how the qualities of the materials are distributed within the switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for switches such as the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Outemu Red play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of the switch. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding how these materials interact and contribute to the overall performance of the switch can help enthusiasts make informed decisions when selecting switches for their keyboards based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, it is clear that the Cabbage Tofu is lighter in both aspects. The Cabbage Tofu has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, whereas the Outemu Red has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. This makes the Cabbage Tofu a better option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, as it requires less force to activate and bottom out. On the other hand, the Outemu Red provides a slightly heavier feel, which may be favored by those who enjoy a more solid and substantial typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Outemu Red linear switches have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equally responsive when typing. The distance the switch travels from top to bottom is the same for both, which means users can expect a consistent typing experience with either switch. The 4 mm travel distance of both switches allows for quick and precise keystrokes, making them ideal for gamers and typists looking for a smooth and efficient typing experience. Whether you choose the Cabbage Tofu or the Outemu Red linear switch, you can be confident in the similar results you'll get in terms of travel distance.
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 Red 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 the sound profile, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch offers a clacky and high-pitched typing experience, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. This gives typists a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, perfect for those who enjoy a more percussive typing sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Red switch's sound profile is unknown, so it's hard to directly compare them in this aspect.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cabbage Tofu switch is described as creamy, polished, silky, and snappy. These qualities indicate a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction, making each keystroke feel effortless and smooth. The longer 22mm spring in the Cabbage Tofu switch adds to the snappy, responsive feel of the switch, providing typists with a lively and tactile typing experience. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Red switch is unknown, making it challenging to directly compare the two switches in this aspect.
In conclusion, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch offers a unique typing experience with a clacky, high-pitched sound profile and a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy feel. The longer 22mm spring in the Cabbage Tofu switch contributes to its swift rebound after actuation, allowing for a quicker transition between keystrokes. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Red switch are unknown in terms of sound and feel, typists can expect a similar smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction from the Cabbage Tofu switch. Ultimately, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch provides typists with a responsive and tactile typing experience with a distinct sound profile, making it a compelling choice for keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a clacky, high-pitched sound with a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing feel, then the Cabbage Tofu switch is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are not as concerned with sound and feel characteristics, the Red switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and typing experience requirements. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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