KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and HMX Poro offer distinct yet appealing experiences for typists and gamers alike. The Cabbage Tofu stands out for its enhanced tactility and quicker rebound, thanks to its longer 22mm spring, creating a unique sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding that many users find satisfying. Its combination of clackiness and silkiness contributes to a responsive typing experience, ideal for those who thrive on precision and speed. Conversely, the HMX Poro switches are revered for their ultra-smooth keystrokes, created through meticulous lubrication that results in an effortless glide. These switches deliver a poppy and bouncy sound that many typists enjoy, making them perfect for users looking for a light touch and less resistance. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, leaving enthusiasts to ponder which qualities should take precedence in their choice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Cabbage Tofu and HMX Poro switches utilize different materials for their top housings, which significantly influences their overall sound profiles. The Cabbage Tofu features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This property makes polycarbonate particularly beneficial for RGB lighting setups where the translucence of the material can enhance visual effects. In contrast, the HMX Poro is constructed with a nylon top housing, a classic material that produces a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer composition. The nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a rounder auditory experience that offers users a different tactile sensation.
While both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, which contributes to a similar character in sound profile and feel, the divergence in their top housings creates distinct auditory signatures. With the polymetric structure of the Cabbage Tofu's polycarbonate top, its impact comes in the form of brightness and clarity when releasing a key. On the other hand, the nylon in the Poro's top housing softens the acoustic output, promoting a more muted response which influences the sound when a key is pressed down. Therefore, the key differences between the two models are most evident when comparing their top housings, where the material choice distinctly alters the sound effects of the switches.
Despite the contrast in their top housing materials, the Cabbage Tofu and Poro switches share similarities in the bottom housing, both utilizing nylon. This similarity contributes to the overall body of sound produced by both switches, as a significant part of the bottom-out sound and feel is determined by the bottom housing. Ultimately, when both types of switches are pressed, users can expect a smoother and rounder typing experience, creating a balance between the sharper traits of the Cabbage Tofu’s top housing and the softer acoustic characteristics of the HMX Poro. Thus, while they offer unique auditory experiences, the commonalities in their bottom housing allow for a level of compatibility and consistency in performance.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them feel equally responsive when triggering a keystroke. However, they diverge in bottom out force, with the Cabbage Tofu registering at 53 grams and the Poro at 50 grams. This means that, although both require the same initial push to actuate a keystroke, the Cabbage Tofu provides a slightly heavier resistance when bottoming out. As a result, the Poro is the lighter option overall, which may appeal to users who prefer a more agile typing experience conducive to extended use. In contrast, the Cabbage Tofu’s heavier bottom out force might offer a more substantial feel for those who favor a more pronounced tactile experience during typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, the Cabbage Tofu measures 4 mm, while the Poro has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This difference indicates that the Cabbage Tofu offers a more pronounced and hearty feel when pressed, which some users might prefer for a tactile feedback experience. On the other hand, the Poro's shorter travel distance may cater to gamers or users seeking quicker response times, making it ideal for those who favor speed and responsiveness in their typing or gaming activities. Therefore, if you lean towards a more traditional and deeper travel experience, the Cabbage Tofu would be your choice. Conversely, the HMX Poro would suit those who appreciate a faster actuation with its shorter 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 HMX Poro has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poro for $2.99.
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, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Poro switches deliver a clacky auditory experience. The Cabbage Tofu's sound profile is characterized by a high-pitched and crisp quality, evoking the distinct sound of Mahjong tiles colliding, which adds an engaging layer of tactile feedback during typing. On the other hand, the Poro shares this clacky nature but is noted for its satisfyingly poppy and bright sounding outputs, enhanced by its ultra-light actuation force. While both switches offer a sharp and percussive auditory experience, their specific sound characteristics may vary slightly based on the mechanical setup, such as the choice of board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch excels with its creamy and silky touch, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience thanks to its factory lubrication and the design of the switch. Additionally, its snappy properties, highlighted by the longer 22mm spring, contribute to a highly responsive keystroke. Meanwhile, the HMX Poro also offers a creamy feel, characterized by its carefully lubricated mechanisms, but additionally integrates a bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that enhances the overall typing dynamics. This tactile bounce, combined with its lightweight actuation, results in a feathery feel that minimizes finger fatigue, making it suitable for prolonged usage.
In summary, while the KTT Cabbage Tofu and HMX Poro linear switches cater to similar preferences in sound and feel, the nuances in their designs make them distinct choices. Both provide an excellent typing experience, with the Cabbage Tofu focusing on responsiveness and a high-pitched clack, whereas the HMX Poro blends smoothness and a lively bounce that delivers a different tactile joy. Choosing between them may depend on personal preference for either the snappier response or the lighter, more feathery touch, but both switches accomplish the goal of a delightful mechanical typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the KTT Cabbage Tofu and HMX Poro linear switches ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you favor a slightly heavier switch that provides a noticeable snappy rebound, enhancing your typing speed and responsiveness, then the Cabbage Tofu with its 53-gram bottom out force could be your best option. Its unique sound profile—akin to Mahjong tiles colliding—creates a distinctive auditory experience that might appeal to those who enjoy a more clacky, high-pitched feedback when typing. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that offers a lighter touch with less finger fatigue, the HMX Poro, with its 50-gram actuation force, excels in providing silky smooth keystrokes and a satisfyingly bouncy feel. The Poro's ultra-light actuation and creamy glide make it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, where comfort is key. In essence, if you prioritize speed and a crisp sound, go for the Cabbage Tofu; but if you lean towards smooth, effortless typing, the HMX Poro will likely be the better fit.
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