KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron Smoothie mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cabbage Tofu stands out for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring that provides a swift rebound after actuation. Typists will appreciate the quicker transition between keystrokes and the sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie boasts an all-POM construction that delivers a thocky sound signature, exceptional smoothness, and a lightweight touch. While the Cabbage Tofu is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Snappy', the Smoothie is labeled as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', and 'Silky'. Each switch has its own unique set of characteristics that appeal to different preferences and typing styles. 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
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron Smoothie both have unique qualities that contribute to the sound profiles of the switches. The Cabbage Tofu features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, while the Smoothie utilizes a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer a pleasing sound experience, with the Cabbage Tofu showcasing a clearer and resonant sound, while the Smoothie provides a deeper and more muffled sound.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Cabbage Tofu utilizes nylon, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. Conversely, the Gateron Smoothie also uses POM for its bottom housing, resulting in a similarly deep and muted sound. While the materials may differ, both switches offer a unique sound experience that caters to different preferences. The nylon bottom housing of the Cabbage Tofu provides a duller and rounder sound, while the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie offers a similarly deep and muffled sound profile.
Overall, the housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gateron Smoothie play a crucial role in defining the sound profiles of the switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Cabbage Tofu produces a sharper and clearer sound, contrasting with the POM top housing of the Smoothie, which creates a deeper and more muted sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Cabbage Tofu and the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie both contribute to a fuller and deeper sound experience, each with its unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Despite these differences, both switches offer a pleasing sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is evident that the Cabbage Tofu has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Smoothie's 40 grams. However, the Cabbage Tofu also has a higher bottom out force of 53 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the Smoothie is unknown. This makes the Cabbage Tofu a slightly heavier switch overall. The actuation force of both switches is relatively light, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, the higher bottom out force of the Cabbage Tofu may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Smoothie the shorter option compared to the Cabbage Tofu. The difference may not seem significant, but for those who prefer a faster response time, the shorter travel distance of the Smoothie may be more appealing. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and smoother key press for those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Both switches offer a balance between traditional and shallow travel distances, catering to a variety of preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual typing preferences and desired feel.
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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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
When comparing the sound profile of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, a notable difference is evident. The Cabbage Tofu switch is described as producing a clacky and high-pitched sound, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie switch offers a thocky, low-pitched, and subdued sound signature, creating a deep and satisfying typing experience. The choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for sound, with the Cabbage Tofu providing a sharper sound and the Gateron Smoothie offering a smoother and more bass-heavy tone.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Cabbage Tofu and Gateron Smoothie are praised for their smooth typing experience. The Cabbage Tofu switch is described as creamy, polished, silky, and snappy, providing a buttery and responsive feel when typing. Similarly, the Gateron Smoothie switch is characterized as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation. Overall, both switches deliver a smooth and refined typing experience, with slight differences in the specific descriptors used to describe their feel.
In conclusion, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Cabbage Tofu switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, along with a creamy and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie switch offers a thocky, low-pitched sound, paired with a buttery and silky feel when typing. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would come down to personal preferences for sound and typing feel, as both options promise a high-quality mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch or the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a switch with medium-light bottom out force, improved tactility and responsiveness, along with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, then the Cabbage Tofu may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, along with a buttery or creamy typing experience, then the Gateron Smoothie would be a great choice. Consider what aspects of typing feel, sound, and bottom out force are most important to you in order to make the best decision for your typing needs.
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