KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Cabbage Tofu and the TTC Silent Frozen are both popular mechanical keyboard switches, each with its own unique characteristics. The Cabbage Tofu switch is known for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring that allows for a swift rebound after actuation. This feature enables typists to seamlessly transition between keystrokes, providing a smoother and quicker typing experience. The sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu switch can be described as "clacky," "creamy," and "high-pitched," reminiscent of the satisfying sound of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen switch is highly regarded for its extremely quiet sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. In addition, the Silent Frozen switch offers a pillowy type feel, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience. Its sound profile is categorized as "thocky," "low-pitched," "creamy," "buttery," and "muted," giving it a more subtle and polished appeal. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The KTT Cabbage Tofu and the TTC Silent Frozen both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, creating a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. Therefore, if you are looking for similar sound profiles and plan to use RGB lighting, both switches would provide comparable results.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Cabbage Tofu utilizes a nylon material, while the Silent Frozen sticks to polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the Cabbage Tofu produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Frozen maintains the sharpness, higher pitch, and crispness characteristic of polycarbonate. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, showcasing the differences in sound and tactile experience between the two switches.
In summary, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the TTC Silent Frozen share the advantages of using polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in similar sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profiles. However, the Cabbage Tofu distinguishes itself by utilizing a nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature. In contrast, the Silent Frozen maintains the characteristics of polycarbonate in its bottom housing, emphasizing the sharpness and clarity of the sound. Thus, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a deeper sound profile or prefer to maintain the crispness of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Cabbage Tofu has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Silent Frozen's 39 grams, making it slightly heavier in terms of initial keystroke trigger. However, both switches fall within the lighter range of forces, which is beneficial for those who prefer a lighter typing experience that allows for longer periods of typing or gaming.
In terms of bottom out force, the Cabbage Tofu requires 53 grams of force to fully press down, while the Silent Frozen only requires 43 grams. This indicates that the Cabbage Tofu provides a slightly more substantial typing experience with a firmer push feel. However, it is worth noting that both switches still fall within the medium-light to light force range.
For those who prioritize a lighter typing experience, either switch would provide similar results due to their lower actuation and bottom out forces. This is advantageous for individuals seeking a keyboard for work or long gaming sessions, as the lighter weight allows for extended periods of comfortable typing. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Cabbage Tofu may be more suitable.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. While the Cabbage Tofu offers slightly higher forces for both actuation and bottom out, the Silent Frozen offers a lighter touch. Both switches provide options for individuals seeking a light or medium-light typing experience, catering to different preferences and needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, it is evident that the Cabbage Tofu has a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm compared to the Silent Frozen's 3.5 mm. The Cabbage Tofu's 4.0 mm travel distance is considered more traditional, providing a deeper feeling when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen's 3.5 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, catering to those who prioritize faster response times, such as gamers. While both switches offer their own advantages based on personal preference, it is important to consider that shorter travel distances can result in more immediate and responsive keystrokes, while longer travel distances may offer a sense of depth and satisfaction when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance 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 Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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 has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. When pressed, users will experience a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen switch has a thocky and low-pitched sound profile. It produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound similar to a "thud" or a soft "knock" when pressed and released. Additionally, the Silent Frozen switch is described as muted, meaning it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to the Cabbage Tofu switch.
In terms of feel, both the Cabbage Tofu and Silent Frozen switches share the descriptor of "creamy." This means they offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, providing a silky sensation and effortless keystrokes. Both switches are also described as polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Cabbage Tofu switch is also mentioned to be snappy and responsive, contributing to a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen switch is described as buttery, feathery, and subtle. It offers a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation with exceptionally light actuation force, reducing finger fatigue. Moreover, the Silent Frozen switch is suitable for shared spaces due to its gentle resistance and non-resonant sound signature.
Considering all the available information, it is evident that the KTT Cabbage Tofu and TTC Silent Frozen switches have distinct subjective qualities. The Cabbage Tofu switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, along with a creamy and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, accompanied by a creamy, buttery, feathery, and subtle typing experience. Depending on the user's preference for sound and feel, they can choose the switch that aligns with their desired typing experience. If a user prefers a clacky and high-pitched sound with snappy keystrokes, the Cabbage Tofu switch would be a suitable choice. However, if a user seeks a thocky and low-pitched sound with a buttery, feathery, and subtle typing feel, the Silent Frozen switch would be a more appropriate option. Nonetheless, both switches offer a smooth and polished typing experience that can be enjoyed by newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with improved tactility and responsiveness, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch would be the better choice for you. Its lengthened 22mm spring allows for a swift rebound after actuation, resulting in a quicker transition between keystrokes. Additionally, the sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu switch is described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet typing experience, the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch would be more suitable for you. These switches are characterized by their extremely quiet sound profile and super smooth feel, providing a pillowy typing experience. The Silent Frozen switch has a lower bottom out force of 43 grams, making it lighter and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The sound profile of the Silent Frozen switch is described as thocky, low-pitched, and muted, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound while minimizing noise.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. Whether you value improved tactility and responsiveness or a quiet and smooth typing experience, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and TTC Silent Frozen switches have their own unique features to offer.