KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Dareu Snow, both of which are linear switches. The Cabbage Tofu switch is praised for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring that allows for 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 Dareu Snow switch showcases innovation with its use of POK material for both the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature during typing. While the Cabbage Tofu switch is described as 'clacky', 'creamy', 'high-pitched', 'polished', 'silky', and 'snappy', the Snow switch is characterized as 'thocky', 'neutral', 'low-pitched', and 'bouncy'. Each switch offers unique qualities that cater 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
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing and contrasting the housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Dareu Snow, we can see some similarities and differences. Both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This means that typing on both switches will result in a similar sound experience, with the nylon bottom housing absorbing more sound and producing a duller and rounder sound. However, while the Cabbage Tofu's top housing is made of polycarbonate, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, the Snow features a POK top housing known for its smooth, clacky, and durable qualities. This contrast in top housing materials may result in a slightly different typing experience between the two switches.
On one hand, the use of polycarbonate in the Cabbage Tofu's top housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a sharper sound when typing. On the other hand, the Snow's POK top housing offers smooth and clacky switches with exceptional durability and shock resistance. In terms of aesthetics, the Cabbage Tofu's polycarbonate top housing is beneficial for RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the Snow's POK material provides a sleek and durable design. Both switches showcase the benefits of their respective top housing materials, catering to different preferences in sound and durability.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Dareu Snow will depend on personal preferences in sound profile and durability. While both switches feature a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound experience, their top housing materials offer distinct qualities. The Cabbage Tofu's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp and resonant sound, ideal for those who prefer a clearer typing experience, while the Snow's POK top housing provides a smooth and clacky feel with exceptional durability. Whether you prioritize sound profile, durability, or aesthetics, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch both fall within the medium range, with the Cabbage Tofu being slightly lighter overall. The Cabbage Tofu has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Snow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cabbage Tofu may be more suitable as it requires less force to activate the keystroke. On the other hand, the Snow provides a slightly heavier push feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Snow has a shorter travel distance compared to the Cabbage Tofu. The Cabbage Tofu's 4.0mm travel distance falls into the more traditional range, offering a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Snow's 3.3mm travel distance is shallower, making it preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches provide a unique typing experience, with the Cabbage Tofu offering a slightly deeper keystroke while the Snow provides a quicker actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for travel distance and typing 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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy noise reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch offers a deeper sound signature with thocky, neutral, and low-pitched characteristics, providing a rich and satisfying typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, allowing users to choose based on their preference for keypress noise.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cabbage Tofu switch provides a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, offering smooth and buttery keypresses with reduced friction and enhanced responsiveness. In contrast, the Dareu Snow switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation with a lively feel and rebound when pressed. While the Cabbage Tofu switch focuses on smoothness and responsiveness, the Dareu Snow switch emphasizes a bouncy and elastic typing experience, catering to different tactile preferences.
Overall, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound with a smooth and buttery typing feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deep thocky sound with a bouncy and elastic typing sensation, the Dareu Snow switch would be the better option. Regardless of your choice, both switches provide distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring a satisfying and personalized typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch with a swift rebound and clacky sound profile, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper sound signature and a bouncy feel, the Dareu Snow linear switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal typing style and what characteristics you prioritize in a keyboard switch. Whether you value responsiveness and a unique sound, or a smooth typing experience and bouncy feel, both the Cabbage Tofu and Snow switches offer distinct qualities to enhance your typing experience.
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