KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the KTT Cabbage Tofu, a linear switch, and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), a tactile switch. The Cabbage Tofu switch is renowned for its improved tactility and responsiveness, offering typists a swift rebound after each actuation thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring. This allows for a seamless transition between keystrokes, providing a quick and efficient typing experience. When using the Cabbage Tofu switch, one can expect a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, with a range of sensations described as clacky, creamy, high-pitched, polished, silky, and snappy. On the other hand, for those seeking maximum tactility, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is the way to go. Typing on these switches delivers a sharp and satisfying clean clack, accompanied by an invigorating and resonant tactility. Categorized as resonant, neutral, sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch offers a unique typing experience. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities, so you can make the best decision and choose the switch that suits you.
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The KTT Cabbage Tofu's housing materials offer a contrasting auditory experience compared to the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower). The Cabbage Tofu's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower)'s POM top housing produces a deeper and relatively more muted sound. While both provide unique sound profiles, the Cabbage Tofu's polycarbonate top housing focuses on clarity and sharpness, while the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a deeper and more subdued sound.
Moving onto the bottom housing, the Cabbage Tofu utilizes a nylon material, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) features a POM bottom housing, which offers a unique and pleasing sound. Although the specific sound profile is not described in detail for the POM T1 (Sunflower)'s bottom housing, it can be inferred that it falls in line with the switch's overall deeper and more muted sound.
When it comes to usage, the qualities of the bottom and top housings come into play differently. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users of the Cabbage Tofu can expect a more pronounced and sharp sound when letting go of keys, thanks to its polycarbonate top housing, compared to the POM T1 (Sunflower) with its more subdued and deeper sound. However, both switches offer their own unique auditory experiences based on the combination of their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Cabbage Tofu has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a medium-light touch for typing. In contrast, the POM T1's actuation force is unknown, so it cannot be directly compared. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cabbage Tofu requires 53 grams of force, which is still within the medium-light range. On the other hand, the POM T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy.
Considering the weight of both switches, the Cabbage Tofu is lighter overall, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions. The lighter actuation force allows for a smoother and more effortless keystroke, reducing fatigue in the fingers over time. However, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the POM T1's heavier bottom out force may be preferred. This additional force provides a satisfying tactile feedback and can be desirable for individuals who prefer a more pronounced keystroke.
In summary, the Cabbage Tofu has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the POM T1, which has a medium-heavy bottom out force. While the actuation force of the POM T1 is unknown, the difference in bottom out force suggests a heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is the distance it travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. When comparing the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same 4 mm distance of travel. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results.
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is best known for its improved tactility and responsiveness. When typing on these switches, users will notice a swift rebound after actuation, resulting in a quicker transition between keystrokes. The sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu switch can be described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. It also has a high-pitched sound that is crisp and bright. In terms of feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch offers a creamy and silky typing experience, with a smooth and buttery sensation. It is also considered snappy, providing a super responsive typing experience.
On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is best known for its maximum tactility. When using these switches, typists will experience a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack. In terms of sound, the POM T1 switch offers a resonant sound profile, characterized by a higher-pitched and clean sound. It is also considered neutral, with a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes. However, the sound of the switch is dependent on other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps. In terms of feel, the POM T1 switch is described as sharp, providing a high feedback intensity and a distinct tactile bump with each keypress. It is also considered accented, offering a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Like the Cabbage Tofu, the POM T1 switch is also described as snappy, providing a super responsive typing experience.
Based on the available information, the Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. The Cabbage Tofu switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, while the POM T1 switch has a resonant and neutral sound profile. In terms of feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch offers a creamy, polished, and silky typing experience, while the POM T1 switch is sharp, accented, and invigorating. Both switches are described as snappy, providing a super responsive typing experience. However, it is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps. Overall, choosing between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize improved tactility and responsiveness, along with a swift rebound after actuation, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is the one for you. The Cabbage Tofu switch offers a medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams, providing a medium-light keystroke feel. It also offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. Additionally, the Cabbage Tofu switch is described as creamy, polished, and silky, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, this switch is perfect for those who enjoy a responsive and smooth typing experience.
On the other hand, if maximum tactility is your main priority, then the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is the right choice for you. With a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams, this switch provides a medium-heavy keystroke feel, offering a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack sound profile. The POM T1 switch is described as resonant and neutral, providing a higher-pitched sound profile and an immersive auditory experience. In terms of feel, it is described as sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a reactive feel. These characteristics make the Durock POM T1 switch ideal for those seeking a tactile and immersive typing sensation.
Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch depends on your personal preferences and priorities. Consider whether you prefer improved tactility and responsiveness with a smooth typing experience, or maximum tactility with a sharp and crisp typing sensation. Both switches offer their own unique benefits, so choose the one that aligns with your desired typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
