KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and Sarokeys Purple Sakura stand out as top choices in their respective categories. The Cabbage Tofu is a linear switch renowned for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring that enables 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 Purple Sakura from Sarokeys is a tactile switch that offers a snappy response and a decadently buttery downstroke. Its tactility strikes a delicate balance, being pronounced yet not overpowering, and typing on them produces a mild and neutral sound signature. Each switch has its own unique qualities, so it's important to consider your preferences and typing style when choosing between them. 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
50g
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
3.20 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura are quite similar, as they both feature polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, where the two differ is in their bottom housing material. The Cabbage Tofu utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura also features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a similar sound profile as the Cabbage Tofu.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, the Cabbage Tofu and Sarokeys Purple Sakura showcase different characteristics in their bottom housing materials. The nylon bottom housing of the Cabbage Tofu provides a deeper and fuller sound experience, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound profile of the polycarbonate top housing. Conversely, the Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing offers a similar sound profile to the Cabbage Tofu due to the absorbing nature of nylon, resulting in a richer typing experience. Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, both switches maintain a high level of sound quality and tactile feedback.
In terms of overall typing experience, the choice of housing materials plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switches. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a distinct impact on the sound when pressing down and releasing a key. The Cabbage Tofu's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a unique typing experience with a balance of sharpness and depth in sound. Similarly, the Purple Sakura's housing materials work in harmony to deliver a satisfying typing experience with a focus on sound quality and tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches offer a premium typing experience with their carefully chosen housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is evident that the Cabbage Tofu is the lighter option, with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Purple Sakura's 50 grams. The bottom out force of the Cabbage Tofu is also lighter at 53 grams, while the Purple Sakura requires 60 grams to bottom out. Both switches fall within the medium-light to medium range, providing a balance between ease of typing and a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Cabbage Tofu, ideal for longer typing sessions or intense gaming marathons, while those seeking a stronger push feel may lean towards the Purple Sakura for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is evident that the Cabbage Tofu has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Purple Sakura's 3.2 mm. The Cabbage Tofu provides a more traditional and deeper key press experience, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those seeking a quicker response time, such as gamers. Both switches have their own advantages depending on individual preferences, with the shorter travel distance of the Purple Sakura catering to a faster typing experience and the longer travel distance of the Cabbage Tofu providing a more deliberate and tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preferences for typing feel and responsiveness.
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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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 comparing the sound of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, we see that the Cabbage Tofu is described as having a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura is noted for having a neutral sound signature, which is mild and neutral. This means that the Cabbage Tofu will offer a sharper and more audible typing experience, while the Purple Sakura will provide a more subtle and moderate sound profile, suitable for various environments.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cabbage Tofu is known for offering a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. These qualities indicate that the switch provides a smooth and refined feel with reduced friction and a quick response time. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura is described as buttery, mild, and snappy, offering a smooth and gentle typing sensation with a responsive touch. Both switches prioritize a pleasant typing experience with their unique tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cabbage Tofu provides a sharper and more audible typing experience with its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, along with a smooth and responsive feel. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura offers a more subtle and moderate sound signature, combined with a buttery and gentle typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, ensuring that users can find a switch that best suits their typing style and environment.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a swift rebound and a clacky, high-pitched sound profile, along with a creamy, polished, or silky typing experience, the Cabbage Tofu may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a snappy response and a neutral sound profile, along with a buttery, mild, or snappy typing feel, then the Purple Sakura might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for switch characteristics and how they align with your typing style and preferences.