KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Dareu Sky V3 are two mechanical keyboard switches that both offer unique advantages to users. The Cabbage Tofu switch is praised for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring which allows for a swift rebound after actuation, resulting in a quicker transition between keystrokes. This switch also produces a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Snappy'. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switches are known for their neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, making them popular for their balance in diverse typing preferences. These switches are celebrated for delivering comfort and precision, appealing to both enthusiasts and professionals. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Subdued', and 'Mild', the Sky V3 switches offer a different typing experience from the Cabbage Tofu. 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
40g
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
4.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Dareu Sky V3, it is apparent that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both keyboards. The translucency of polycarbonate also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. However, despite this similarity in the top housing material, the Cabbage Tofu stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature compared to polycarbonate. On the other hand, the Sky V3 also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a duller and rounder sound.
While the polycarbonate top housing in both the Cabbage Tofu and the Sky V3 contributes to a sharp and clear sound profile as well as a visually appealing design with its translucency, the differences lie in their respective bottom housings. The nylon material used for the bottom housing of both switches results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a distinct typing experience. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate, leading to a duller sound that rounds out the overall typing feel. Despite these slight differences, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences.
In terms of functionality, the housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Dareu Sky V3 play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and typing feel of each switch. While the polycarbonate top housing in both switches contributes to a sharper and crisper sound, the nylon bottom housing of the Cabbage Tofu and the Sky V3 provides a deeper and fuller typing experience. The choice between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel, as well as the visual appeal of the translucent polycarbonate top housing. Overall, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their unique combination of housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is evident that the Cabbage Tofu is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Sky V3's 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cabbage Tofu requires 53 grams, while the force needed for the Sky V3 is unknown. This makes the Cabbage Tofu slightly heavier overall. The Cabbage Tofu provides a medium-light typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a slight resistance in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Sky V3 is lighter, which may appeal to individuals who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Both switches offer their own unique typing experiences based on the force required, with the Cabbage Tofu leaning towards a slightly heavier feel compared to the Sky V3.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is the same, both measuring 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience a similar distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect consistent results from both switches. Overall, the travel distances of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switches are equal, providing a comparable 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 Dareu Sky V3 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V3 for $4.76.
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 KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound, making it a versatile option suitable for various typing preferences. When it comes to feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch boasts a creamy, polished, and silky typing experience, thanks to its smooth and buttery sensation with reduced friction. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 switch provides a mild typing experience, offering a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics.
In conclusion, if you prefer a keyboard switch that produces a clacky, high-pitched sound with a creamy and snappy typing feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a neutral, subdued sound and a mild typing experience, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch would be a great option. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, providing distinct auditory and tactile sensations to enhance your typing experience. Whether you opt for the Cabbage Tofu or the Sky V3, you can expect a satisfying typing experience tailored to your specific preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a swift rebound after actuation, along with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, then the Cabbage Tofu may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral and subdued sound profile with a gentle typing experience that falls into a safe middle-ground zone, then the Dareu Sky V3 may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style. Choose the switch that best aligns with your preferences and typing needs.
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