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KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. TTC Speed Silver

An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

The KTT Cabbage Tofu and TTC Speed Silver are both mechanical keyboard switches with their unique features and benefits. The Cabbage Tofu switch stands out for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring, which provides a swift rebound after actuation. This allows for a quicker transition between keystrokes and enhances typing speed. Additionally, the Cabbage Tofu switch offers a distinctive sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, adding a touch of character to your typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch caters to those who seek a fast and precise typing experience. With a light-medium level of resistance and a reduced travel distance, these switches facilitate quick and effortless actuation. The Speed Silver switch also boasts a pristine sound profile, enhancing the overall typing ambiance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

45g

Actuation force

45g

Bottom-out force

53g

Bottom-out force

55g

Pre-travel

1.90 mm

Pre-travel

1.08 mm

Total travel

4.00 mm

Total travel

3.40 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

Plate (3-pin)

Spring

22mm spring

Spring

Stainless steel

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the TTC Speed Silver switches are quite similar. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. This means that whether you choose the Cabbage Tofu or the Speed Silver, you can expect a comparable sound and aesthetic experience due to the shared top housing material.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the switches differ. The Cabbage Tofu employs a nylon bottom housing, while the Speed Silver utilizes the same material. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, if you prioritize a more pronounced sound while typing, the Cabbage Tofu's nylon bottom housing may be a better choice for you.

It is also worth noting that the bottom and top housing materials have distinct impacts on the overall feel and sound of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing are more prominent, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing material has a greater influence on the sound when you release a key. Therefore, you may want to consider the specific sound and feel you desire during both key press and release when making a decision between the Cabbage Tofu and the Speed Silver switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is evident that they have very similar force requirements. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches. This implies that users will get similar results in terms of the sensitivity and responsiveness of the switches.

In terms of bottom out force, the Cabbage Tofu requires 53 grams of force, while the Speed Silver requires 55 grams. Although the difference is minimal, the Speed Silver can be considered slightly heavier in terms of the force required to fully depress the switch. This may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.

Considering weight, both switches can be classified as medium-light, as they require relatively low amounts of force for actuation and bottom out. This makes them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing them to type for longer periods without fatigue. Additionally, this feature makes them ideal for keyboards used in work or gaming settings that require extended periods of use.

Overall, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and TTC Speed Silver linear switches offer similar actuation forces, ensuring a consistent typing experience for users. The slight difference in bottom out forces suggests that the Speed Silver may provide a slightly heavier and more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for force requirements and typing experience.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is 4.0 mm, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Cabbage Tofu has a longer distance compared to the Speed Silver. The Cabbage Tofu's 4.0 mm travel distance falls into the traditional range, providing a balanced feel. On the other hand, the Speed Silver's 3.4 mm travel distance is shallower, making it popular among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a quicker and more responsive typing experience, the Speed Silver would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial press, the Cabbage Tofu with its longer travel distance would be preferable. Ultimately, your preference for travel distance will depend on whether you prioritize speed or a more substantial feeling when pressing down on the keys.

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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.

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 it comes to sound, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound. This means that when the keys are pressed, they emit a sharp and snappy noise that is crisp, bright, and percussive. The sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu can be compared to the collision of Mahjong tiles. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is considered neutral in terms of sound. It has a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user and whether you plan to use the keyboard at home or work. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. Overall, the Cabbage Tofu offers a distinctive clacky and high-pitched sound, while the Speed Silver provides a more neutral and moderate sound experience.

Moving on to the feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch offers a creamy, polished, and silky typing experience. These switches are known for their smooth and buttery feel, similar to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The creaminess of the switch can be attributed to the application of lubricant at the factory or specific materials used. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The silky sensation of the Cabbage Tofu enhances the overall smoothness of typing and minimizes resistance during key presses and releases. Furthermore, the Cabbage Tofu is described as snappy, which indicates a high level of responsiveness from the switch, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring.

On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is characterized by a mild and polished feel. It offers a gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The typing sensation of the Speed Silver is approachable to most users, as it falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Similar to the Cabbage Tofu, the Speed Silver also has a polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined key travel with reduced friction.

Overall, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cabbage Tofu produces a clacky, high-pitched sound, while the Speed Silver has a more neutral sound profile. In terms of feel, the Cabbage Tofu provides a creamy, polished, and silky typing experience with a snappy response, while the Speed Silver offers a mild and polished feel. Both switches have their unique qualities and it is ultimately a matter of personal preference. However, if a user is looking for a fast and precise typing experience, the Speed Silver might be more suitable. Similarly, if the user values improved tactility and responsiveness, the Cabbage Tofu would be a better choice. It is important to consider the user's preferences and requirements when selecting between these two switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize improved tactility and responsiveness, the Cabbage Tofu linear switch would be the better choice for you. With its lengthened 22mm spring, you can expect a swift rebound after actuation, allowing for a quicker transition between keystrokes. Additionally, the sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu is described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. In terms of feel, the Cabbage Tofu offers a creamy, polished, silky typing experience, making it feel smooth and refined. On the other hand, if you value a fast and precise typing experience with reduced travel distance, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is the way to go. These switches have a light-medium level of resistance and a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. The feel of the Speed Silver is described as mild and polished, offering a more gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the Cabbage Tofu and the Speed Silver depends on your preferences for tactility, sound, and feel.

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