KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the KTT Cabbage Tofu, a linear switch, and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, also a linear switch. Both switches offer unique characteristics that make them stand out in the mechanical keyboard world. The Cabbage Tofu switch boasts improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring. This feature allows for a swift rebound after actuation, resulting in a quicker transition between keystrokes. Typists using the Cabbage Tofu switch will enjoy a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch offers a bouncy typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a more tactile response. The sound profile of the Polaris Gray switch is clean and clacky, adding a satisfying auditory element to each keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The KTT Cabbage Tofu and the SP-Star Polaris Gray share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those who want a clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the transparency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the switches. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and appearance when using either of these switches.
However, when comparing the bottom housing materials, we see a difference between the two switches. The Cabbage Tofu utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Polaris Gray sticks to polycarbonate. Nylon is renowned for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, results in a sharper and more resonant sound. Therefore, while the Cabbage Tofu may offer a duller and rounder sound due to its nylon bottom housing, the Polaris Gray will provide a crisper and higher-pitched sound due to its polycarbonate bottom housing.
This distinction in bottom housing materials also affects the feeling when pressing down on the switches. The qualities of the bottom housing, which absorbs sound and impact, will be more prominent in the overall typing experience. Thus, the nylon bottom housing of the Cabbage Tofu may lead to a softer and cushioned bottom-out feel, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Gray may offer a more solid and noticeable impact sensation. Conversely, the characteristics of the top housing, determined by its material, will have a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key, with both switches expected to deliver similar results in this regard.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offer different weight options. The Cabbage Tofu has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which provides a medium-light feel. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray's actuation force is unavailable, making it difficult to determine its specific weight. However, its bottom out force is 67 grams, indicating a medium-heavy switch.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cabbage Tofu would be a suitable choice. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces make it ideal for extended periods of typing, such as in a professional setting or during long gaming sessions. However, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Polaris Gray might be a better option. With its higher bottom out force, it provides a heavier tactile feedback.
It is important to note that without knowing the specific actuation force of the Polaris Gray, it is difficult to directly compare the two switches. However, based on the available information, it is clear that the Cabbage Tofu is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces, while the Polaris Gray offers a heavier typing experience with its higher bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, the distance they travel from the top to the bottom will be the same. Consequently, you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and tactile feedback when typing on keyboards using either of these switches.
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 SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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 produces a clacky and high-pitched sound. This means that when you press the keys, you will experience a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch has a low-pitched sound profile that is more bass-heavy and mellow. This switch has a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound. Additionally, the Polaris Gray switch can be described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. If you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound, the Cabbage Tofu switch would be a good choice. However, if you prefer a low-pitched and thocky sound, the Polaris Gray switch would be more suitable.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch offers a creamy and polished typing experience. This means that the switch is smooth and buttery, providing a silky sensation as you glide your fingers across the keys. The KTT Cabbage Tofu switch is snappy, which means it is super responsive due to its longer 22mm spring, enhancing the typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. This means that the switch offers a gentle and approachable typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you prefer a creamy, silky, and snappy feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch would be a good choice. However, if you prefer a mild and polished feel, the Polaris Gray switch is more suitable.
In conclusion, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cabbage Tofu switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, while the Polaris Gray switch has a low-pitched and thocky sound profile. In terms of feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch offers a creamy and snappy experience, while the Polaris Gray switch provides a mild and polished feel. It's important to consider your personal preferences when choosing between these switches. If you prefer a sharp and bright sound with a smooth and buttery feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch would be a great option. On the other hand, if you prefer a more bass-heavy and mellow sound with a gentle and refined feel, the Polaris Gray switch would be a suitable choice.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and improved tactility, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its lengthened 22mm spring, you can expect a swift rebound after actuation, allowing for a quicker transition between keystrokes. Additionally, the sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu is described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a crisp and bright sound when pressed. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch would be more suitable. These switches offer a clean and clacky sound profile, described as low-pitched, neutral, and thocky. In terms of feel, the Cabbage Tofu provides a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, while the Polaris Gray offers a mild and polished sensation. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for force, tactility, sound, and feel.
Mentioned in this article
