KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Cabbage Tofu, a linear switch, stands out for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring which provides 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 Jerrzi Salt Ice, also a linear switch, boasts exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics with a light touch. Users seeking an energetic and responsive typing experience will find the vibrant feedback and effortless actuation of the Salt Ice to be a standout choice. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and Jerrzi Salt Ice switches both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate is particularly beneficial for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, as it allows for a more visually appealing experience. However, the Cabbage Tofu switches differ in their use of nylon for the bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Salt Ice switches maintain consistency with polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, emphasizing the clear and resonant sound profile associated with this stiffer plastic material.
When considering the impact of the different housing materials on switch performance, the qualities of the bottom and top housings play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Cabbage Tofu contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a more subdued and rounded typing experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Salt Ice maintains the sharp and crisp sound profile throughout the typing process. The top housing, whether polycarbonate or nylon, also influences the sound when releasing a key, with polycarbonate yielding a clearer sound profile compared to nylon.
In conclusion, while both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and Jerrzi Salt Ice switches share the benefits of polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile and enhanced aesthetics, they diverge in their choice of bottom housing material. The Cabbage Tofu's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller typing experience, while the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a consistent sharp and resonant sound profile. Whether the housing materials are the same or different, each contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switches, providing users with distinct typing experiences based on their preferences for sound and performance.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Cabbage Tofu has a bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Salt Ice, which has an unknown bottom out force. The Cabbage Tofu can be considered more medium-light in terms of weight, suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing feel for extended use. On the other hand, the Salt Ice's unknown bottom out force may cater to individuals who enjoy a more undefined typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out force, with the Cabbage Tofu being the slightly heavier option between the two.
Travel distance
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Cabbage Tofu has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Salt Ice, which may result in a slightly deeper keypress feel. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Salt Ice, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Cabbage Tofu. Overall, both switches offer a traditional travel distance and can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on individual 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 Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
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 switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch does not have a specific description of its sound characteristics provided in the information. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch is described as offering a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. This means users can expect a smooth and buttery sensation with reduced friction, smooth key travel, and enhanced responsiveness. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available on the feel of the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch in the provided details.
In conclusion, while the sound qualities of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and Jerrzi Salt Ice switches differ, with the former offering a sharp and clacky sound profile and the latter lacking a description in the information provided, both switches offer a smooth and responsive typing experience. Users can expect quick rebound after actuation and vibrant feedback from the Cabbage Tofu, while the Salt Ice provides a light touch and effortless actuation. Therefore, depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can achieve similar results with either switch in terms of performance and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value improved tactility, swift rebound after actuation, and a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, then the Cabbage Tofu switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, along with a light touch and vibrant feedback, the Salt Ice switch might be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of sound and feel you prefer while typing, as both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
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