KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two extraordinary mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the KTT Rose. While both switches fall under the linear category, they offer distinct qualities that cater to varying preferences. The Cabbage Tofu switch is renowned for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring. With a swift rebound after actuation, typists will appreciate the seamless transition between keystrokes. When using these switches, a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding can be experienced. On the other hand, the Rose switch captivates with its exquisite aesthetics and unique typing experience. The use of progressive springs provides a satisfyingly substantial yet not heavy feel while typing, accompanied by the pleasant sound of bassy raindrops hitting a surface. Although these generalities provide a glimpse into both switches, let's delve deeper to aid you in determining the perfect fit for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The KTT Cabbage Tofu and the KTT Rose both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housing. This shared material contributes to a similar sound profile for both switches. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the integration of RGB lighting, making it visually appealing for those looking to enhance their keyboard aesthetics.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Cabbage Tofu employs nylon, while the Rose also utilizes nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. The absorption qualities of nylon contribute to a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. Both switches benefit from nylon's characteristics, providing users with a satisfying acoustic experience.
The distribution of the housing materials impacts different aspects of the switches' performance. The bottom housing material has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing can be felt, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. Conversely, the top housing material, being polycarbonate in this case, affects the sound when releasing a key. This allocation of housing materials in the Cabbage Tofu and the Rose ensures a well-rounded auditory experience, complemented by the unique qualities of both polycarbonate and nylon.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. Starting with the actuation force, the Cabbage Tofu requires 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, whereas the exact actuation force of the Rose switch is unavailable. However, it is safe to assume that the actuation force of the Rose switch would be at a similar level, resulting in a relatively light and responsive keystroke for both switches.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Cabbage Tofu requires 53 grams of force to fully press down, offering a medium-light typing experience. On the other hand, the Rose switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a slightly heavier and more substantial typing feel.
Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Cabbage Tofu switch as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. However, individuals who enjoy a stronger and more pronounced keystroke might find the Rose switch appealing due to its medium-heavy bottom out force.
In summary, while the specific actuation force of the Rose switch is unknown, it can be assumed that it would be similar to the Cabbage Tofu switch, resulting in a comparable light and responsive keystroke. However, the bottom out force sets them apart, with the Cabbage Tofu offering a medium-light feel and the Rose providing a slightly heavier and more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing feel one is seeking.
Travel distance
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, whether you choose the Cabbage Tofu or the Rose, you can expect similar results in terms of the switch's 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 KTT Rose comes in at $3.01 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed. This results in a crisp, bright, and percussive sound similar to Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch emits a low-pitched sound, which creates a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. However, the Rose switch is also described as having a neutral sound profile, meaning it strikes a balance between different sound characteristics. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is renowned for its creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. These switches offer a smooth and buttery feel, allowing your fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys with each keystroke. The use of longer springs enhances the responsiveness of the switch, making it feel more alive. In comparison, the KTT Rose linear switch is described as mild and polished. It provides a gentle typing experience without pronounced characteristics, making it approachable to most typists. Moreover, the Rose switch also exhibits a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch offers improved tactility and responsiveness due to its lengthened spring, resulting in a swift rebound after actuation. It produces a clacky and high-pitched sound while providing a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch stands out for its beauty and utilizes progressive springs to deliver a substantively substantial yet not heavy typing feel. It produces a low-pitched sound reminiscent of bassy raindrops when typing. The Rose switch exhibits a mild and polished typing experience, ensuring approachability and smooth key travel. Overall, both switches provide unique qualities, offering different sound profiles and typing feels. Depending on your preferences, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a keyboard switch with improved tactility and responsiveness, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its lengthened 22mm spring, you'll experience a swift rebound after actuation, allowing for quicker transitions between keystrokes. The sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu switch is described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. In terms of feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch offers a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, with smooth and buttery key travel and enhanced overall smoothness.
On the other hand, if you prefer a keyboard switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the KTT Rose linear switch may be more suitable for you. The use of progressive springs in the Rose switch provides a uniquely substantial typing experience without feeling heavy. The sound profile of the Rose switch is described as low-pitched and neutral, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. In terms of feel, the Rose switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle and approachable sound and feel that stands in a safe, middle-ground zone.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Cabbage Tofu and KTT Rose switches depends on your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics and advantages, so consider what qualities are most important to you when making your decision. Whether you prioritize improved tactility and responsiveness or a substantial, yet not heavy, typing experience, both switches are excellent options to consider.
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