KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and HC Studio Roselle stand out as two compelling options. The Cabbage Tofu switch is lauded for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring, which facilitates a swift rebound after actuation. This design enables a quicker transition between keystrokes, accompanied by a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. Categorized as clacky, creamy, high-pitched, polished, silky, and snappy, the Cabbage Tofu offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle distinguishes itself with its inherent material blend that delivers an impossibly smooth and ethereally wispy sensation while typing. Additionally, a subtle, low-pitched sound signature can be detected when using the Roselle switches. Classified as bassy, frictionless, low-pitched, mild, and neutral, the Roselle provides a different typing feel compared to the Cabbage Tofu. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
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
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HC Studio Roselle, we can see some distinct differences. The Cabbage Tofu utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Roselle's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials contribute to a unique sound experience, the choice between polycarbonate and POM can significantly impact the overall sound signature of the keyboard.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Cabbage Tofu features a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Similarly, the Roselle also utilizes POM for its bottom housing, resulting in a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. Despite the shared characteristic of producing a deeper sound profile, the different properties of nylon and POM can still offer a slightly varied typing experience.
In the realm of switch housings, the balance between top and bottom materials is crucial to achieving the desired sound and feel. With the Cabbage Tofu's split between polycarbonate and nylon, users can expect a combination of sharper top-out sounds and fuller bottom-out feels. On the other hand, the Roselle's use of POM in both top and bottom housings ensures a consistent sound profile throughout typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two keyboards will come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them light and easy to trigger. However, the Cabbage Tofu has a slightly higher bottom out force of 53 grams compared to the Roselle's 52 grams, making it slightly heavier when fully pressed. Given that the actuation force is the same for both switches, users can expect similar results in terms of sensitivity and responsiveness. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Cabbage Tofu for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may appreciate the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Roselle for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and force feedback.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, it is clear that the Cabbage Tofu has a longer travel distance at 4 mm compared to the Roselle's 3.6 mm. The Cabbage Tofu offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Roselle provides a slightly shorter distance. Gamers may prefer the Roselle for its quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more deliberate key press may lean towards the Cabbage Tofu. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their preferences.
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 HC Studio Roselle has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Roselle for $4.70.
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 offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch presents a low-pitched and bassy sound signature when typing. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences - the Cabbage Tofu for those who enjoy a sharp and snappy sound, and the Roselle for those who prefer a deeper and richer sound profile. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch is described as creamy, polished, and snappy, offering a smooth, refined, and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle switch is described as frictionless and mild, providing an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with a gentle touch. Both switches boast smooth and responsive qualities, with the Cabbage Tofu focusing on a buttery sensation while the Roselle emphasizes a practically frictionless typing experience.
Overall, while the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics, both switches provide a premium typing experience tailored to different preferences. Whether you prefer a sharper, clackier sound with a swift rebound or a deeper, smoother sound with more gentle tactility, both switches deliver top-notch performance and satisfaction. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preferences in sound and feel, ensuring that you'll get a satisfying typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch or the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, you should take into account your preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you enjoy a switch with improved tactility and swift rebound after actuation, along with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, then the Cabbage Tofu may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a switch that is impossibly smooth and wispy with a subtle, low-pitched sound signature, and offers a frictionless and mild typing experience, then the Roselle might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.