KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the TTC Silent Brown. The Cabbage Tofu is a linear switch that is best known for its improved tactility and responsiveness. With its lengthened 22mm spring, typists can enjoy a swift rebound after actuation, allowing for a quicker transition between keystrokes. Additionally, the sound profile of this switch is often compared to the satisfying clack of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Silent Brown is a tactile switch that offers a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. One of the advantages of the Silent Brown is its muted sound profile, which provides a pleasant typing experience without being too distracting. Both switches have their unique features and appeal, making it important to dive in deeper beyond generalities in order to determine the best switch for your specific preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
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
3.80 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and TTC Silent Brown switches share several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, as a relatively stiffer plastic, contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it especially suitable for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetic benefits from both the Cabbage Tofu and Silent Brown switches.
On the other hand, the housing materials differ for the bottom housing of these switches. The Cabbage Tofu employs nylon, a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to its relatively softer nature, nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Silent Brown also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which similarly contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile.
When it comes to the overall switch experience, the choice of housing materials plays a significant role in the sound and feel. The division of qualities between the top and bottom housing impacts different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. Therefore, users can expect variations in sound and tactile feedback depending on which housing material dominates each section of the switch.
In conclusion, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and TTC Silent Brown switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. Both switches also utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer and sound-absorbing properties. While the top and bottom housings divide the qualities of the switch, users can expect variations in sound and tactile feedback based on the dominance of each housing material in different sections.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, we find both similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, both switches require 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. This means that users can expect a similar feel when activating the switches. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Cabbage Tofu requires a force of 53 grams, while the Silent Brown requires a slightly heavier force of 63.5 grams. This makes the Silent Brown switch a medium-heavy option, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu switch falls into the medium-light category, making it a lighter option suitable for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming. Therefore, for individuals seeking a lighter actuation and bottom out force, the Cabbage Tofu switch would be the preferred choice, while those desiring a heavier force can opt for the Silent Brown switch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is 4.0 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances for keyboards. The Cabbage Tofu offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper and more satisfying keypress. On the other hand, the Silent Brown offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which can be beneficial for gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
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
The subjective qualities of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch differ in terms of sound and feel.
In terms of sound, the Cabbage Tofu switch is described as clacky and high-pitched. It produces a sharp, snappy, and crisp sound when pressed, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch has a muted sound profile. It produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. If you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Cabbage Tofu switch would be a better choice, while the Silent Brown switch provides a quieter typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch is described as creamy, polished, silky, and snappy. It offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The longer 22mm spring in the Cabbage Tofu switch allows for quick rebound after actuation, resulting in a more responsive typing feel. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch is described as buttery, mild, and polished. It offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with reduced friction and a sleek typing sensation. The Silent Brown switch provides a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump.
Based on the available information, the Cabbage Tofu switch will provide a sharper and crisper sound with a more responsive typing feel, while the Silent Brown switch will offer a muted sound profile with a comfortable and smooth typing experience. If you prefer a louder and snappier typing experience, the Cabbage Tofu switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a quieter and more gentle typing experience with a tactile bump, the Silent Brown switch would be a better fit.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that offers improved tactility and responsiveness with a medium-light bottom out force, then the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is a great choice. Its lengthened 22mm spring provides a swift rebound after actuation, allowing for a quicker transition between keystrokes. Additionally, the Cabbage Tofu switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, which can be crisp, bright, and percussive. In terms of feel, this switch offers a creamy, polished, and silky typing experience due to lubrication and specific materials used.
On the other hand, if you prefer a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is an excellent option. With a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the Cabbage Tofu, it offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most typists. The Silent Brown switch has a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It also provides a buttery and polished typing feel, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch depends on your preference for tactility, sound, and feel. If you prioritize improved responsiveness, a clacky and high-pitched sound, and a creamy, polished, and silky typing experience, then the Cabbage Tofu switch is the way to go. However, if you value a comfortable typing experience with a rounded tactile bump, a muted sound profile, and a buttery and polished feel, then the Silent Brown switch is the better choice. Consider your personal preferences and requirements to make an informed decision.
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