KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. TTC Silent Red

Overview

The KTT Cabbage Tofu and the TTC Silent Red are both mechanical keyboard switches known for their distinct qualities, although they fall under the same linear switch category. The Cabbage Tofu switch offers improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring, allowing for a swift rebound after actuation and a quicker transition between keystrokes. When using the Cabbage Tofu switches, one can expect a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, with options such as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Snappy'. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch is perfect for those seeking a smooth and seamless typing experience without all the noise. With a muted sound profile, these switches are ideal for office or shared living spaces. The Silent Red switch offers a consistent feel from top to bottom, with a padded bottom-out sensation for maximum comfort. Categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Muted', and 'Polished', the Silent Red switch ensures a satisfying typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific needs.

By the numbers

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

TTC Silent Red Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the TTC Silent Red share similarities in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances the clear and resonant sound produced. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetics when using either switch.

However, the bottom housings of the Cabbage Tofu and the Silent Red differ in material. The Cabbage Tofu features a nylon bottom housing, while the Silent Red utilizes the same material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Consequently, the Cabbage Tofu and the Silent Red may have varying bottom-out sound and feel due to their different bottom housing materials.

In terms of the impact on sound when releasing a key, the top housing material plays a significant role. Both the Cabbage Tofu and the Silent Red, with their polycarbonate top housing, will exhibit similar sound characteristics when letting go of a key. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to the sharp and crisp sound produced when releasing a key, regardless of the overall construction of the switch. Therefore, users can expect similar sound qualities in this aspect between the two switches.

In summary, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the TTC Silent Red share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, leading to comparable sound profiles and aesthetics. However, their nylon bottom housings result in different bottom-out sound and feel, with the Cabbage Tofu providing a deeper and fuller tone, thanks to nylon's sound-absorbing properties. Nonetheless, both switches will exhibit similar sound characteristics when releasing a key due to the influence of their polycarbonate top housing.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of actuation force, both switches require 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, indicating a similar sensitivity and responsiveness. This means that users can expect a similar experience when it comes to the initial push required for typing or gaming. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a noticeable difference. The Cabbage Tofu has a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is slightly lighter compared to the Silent Red's bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it heavier. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cabbage Tofu may be a more suitable choice, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Silent Red offers a more substantial and satisfying push, providing a different typing experience for users who prefer a stronger tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is 4.0 mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Comparing the two, the Cabbage Tofu has a slightly longer travel distance than the Silent Red. 4.0 mm is a more traditional travel distance, while 3.7 mm is slightly more shallow. Some individuals, especially gamers, prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. In this case, the Silent Red would be the preferred option. However, for those who enjoy a deeper key press, the Cabbage Tofu with its longer travel distance would be the better choice. It is important to consider personal preferences and the desired level of responsiveness when choosing between the two switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. This means that when the switch is pressed, it produces a sharp, snappy, and crisp sound reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is described as having a muted sound. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, making it a great choice for environments where noise is a concern. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Cabbage Tofu switch is the way to go, while if you prioritize a quieter typing experience, the Silent Red switch is the better option.

In terms of feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch offers a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. The switch is designed to be smooth and buttery, providing a gliding sensation as you effortlessly press and release each key. The polished finish of the switch reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. Additionally, the longer spring of the Cabbage Tofu switch enhances its responsiveness, making the typing experience feel more alive. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is described as having a buttery, mild, and polished feel. This means that the switch provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with a gentle typing sensation that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Similar to the Cabbage Tofu, the Silent Red also features a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, both switches offer a comfortable and pleasant typing experience, albeit with slightly different characteristics.

In conclusion, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch each have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cabbage Tofu switch produces a clacky, high-pitched sound and offers a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch has a muted sound profile and provides a buttery, mild, and polished feel. While they differ in these subjective qualities, both switches prioritize smoothness and comfort. Therefore, if you prefer a louder and crisper sound with enhanced responsiveness, the Cabbage Tofu switch is a great choice. However, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a gentle and uniform feel, the Silent Red switch is the better option. Overall, both switches can deliver satisfying results depending on your personal preferences.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a linear switch with improved tactility and responsiveness, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its lengthened 22mm spring allows for a swift rebound after actuation, enabling a quicker transition between keystrokes. Additionally, the Cabbage Tofu switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, which may appeal to those who enjoy a crisp and bright sound profile.

On the other hand, if you value a smooth and seamless typing experience without the noise, the TTC Silent Red switch is the perfect fit. These switches have a muted sound profile, making them ideal for office or shared living space use. The Silent Red switch offers a smooth and consistent feel from top to bottom, and its padded bottom-out feel adds maximum comfort.

Ultimately, your choice between the KTT Cabbage Tofu and TTC Silent Red switches depends on your specific preferences. If you prioritize tactile responsiveness and enjoy a clacky, high-pitched sound, the Cabbage Tofu is the way to go. However, if you prefer a quiet, buttery typing experience, the Silent Red is the better option. Consider your sound and feel preferences, as well as your intended usage environment, to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

Learn more

TTC Silent Red Linear

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn more