KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two strong contenders worth considering are the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX SU, both of which belong to the linear switch category. The KTT Cabbage Tofu is celebrated for its enhanced tactility and responsiveness, featuring a lengthened 22mm spring that prompts a swift rebound after actuation, making it ideal for fast typists who appreciate a little auditory feedback reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. In contrast, the HMX SU offers a robust full PA12 housing and a T5 stem that deliver a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile, appealing to those who prefer a more refined and muted keystroke experience. While the Cabbage Tofu emphasizes a “clacky” and “snappy” feel that can invigorate typing sessions, the HMX SU is designed for users seeking a smoother, less ostentatious touch. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
T5
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX SU represent two distinct philosophies in switch design, particularly evident in their housing materials. The Cabbage Tofu features a polycarbonate top housing, which, due to its stiffness, creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic allows for the sound to resonate clearly, making it an advantageous choice for users who desire a lively and pronounced acoustic experience, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the HMX SU employs nylon as its top housing material. Nylon, recognized for its softness, facilitates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound, thus producing a duller and rounder auditory experience. This fundamental difference in material properties significantly influences the overall aural feedback users receive from each switch.
Upon examining the bottom housings, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and HMX SU share a common trait, as they both utilize nylon for their bottom housings. As noted, nylon is a classic switch housing material that enhances sound absorption, leading to a deeper and fuller sound. Since both switches leverage nylon in their bottom housings, the tactile feel and sound signature when bottoming out will be strikingly similar. This shared use of nylon contributes to a consistent acoustic experience in the lower range of the keystroke, offering users a rich typing experience regardless of whether they choose the Cabbage Tofu or the HMX SU.
Despite the similarity in bottom housing, the overall experience of typing on these switches will vary significantly due to the contrasting top housing materials. The KTT Cabbage Tofu's polycarbonate top will ensure a more defined sound when releasing a key, while the HMX SU's nylon top will contribute to a softer return sound. As a result, users seeking a crisp and vibrant experience may gravitate towards the cabbage tofu, while those preferring a fuller, more muted typing sensation might favor the HMX SU. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences and styles, showcasing the profound impact housing materials can have on the tactile and auditory aspects of keyboard switches.
Weight
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch have comparable actuation forces, both at 45 grams, meaning they require the same amount of pressure to register a keystroke. However, the bottom out forces differ between the two: the Cabbage Tofu has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the HMX SU's is lighter at 50 grams. This indicates that while both switches provide a similar light feel when typing, the Cabbage Tofu offers a slightly firmer response when fully pressed down, making it suitable for those who appreciate a more substantial bottoming out experience. In terms of weight, the HMX SU is the lighter option overall, which may be more appealing for users who prefer extended typing sessions or gaming marathons without fatigue. Thus, while both switches can deliver similar results in actuation, their bottom out characteristics and overall tactile responses cater to different preferences in user experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, we find a notable difference between the two. The Cabbage Tofu has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional choice that offers a hearty depth for users who appreciate a more substantial feel when pressing keys. In contrast, the HMX SU features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, appealing to gamers or those seeking faster response times due to its more shallow actuation. This difference indicates that while both switches provide unique tactile experiences, the Cabbage Tofu may be better suited for users who favor a deeper, more deliberate keystroke, whereas the HMX SU caters to those looking for quick, responsive action. Thus, if you prefer more responsiveness, the HMX SU would be the better option; but if you appreciate a fuller typing experience, the Cabbage Tofu is likely your choice.
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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 offers a distinct sound profile that can be likened to Mahjong tiles colliding, characterized by a clacky and high-pitched quality. This means that when typed on, these switches produce a sharp and snappy sound, providing a crisp auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch features a more understated acoustic profile, thanks to its full PA12 housing, which yields a subtle and relatively deep sound. The lack of specific descriptors for the SU's sound suggests it may be less distinctive, but it can still maintain a pleasant auditory experience without the higher-pitched tones that characterize the Cabbage Tofu.
Regarding the feel of these switches, the Cabbage Tofu excels with descriptors like creamy, polished, silky, and snappy, offering a wonderfully smooth and responsive typing experience. The longer 22mm spring contributes to this feel, allowing for quick rebounds that enhance the overall typing dynamics. On the other hand, the HMX SU lacks specific descriptors for its feel, leaving its tactile feedback and smoothness somewhat uncertain. Without known qualities, it’s difficult to compare the tactile sensations they might provide directly. However, those who value a smooth typing experience may find solace in the known silky motions of the Cabbage Tofu.
When considering both switches as options, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch offers a richer auditory experience combined with a smooth, responsive feel due to its thoughtful design features, making it ideal for typists who appreciate feedback both in sound and touch. The HMX SU linear switch, while less characterized in sound and feel, could still serve well for those seeking an understated or different linear experience. Ultimately, if you're looking for similar results, the Cabbage Tofu's clearly articulated qualities might guide your choice, while the SU could provide an alternative path with its quieter, yet potentially still enjoyable performance.
Conclusion
In summary, the choice between KTT Cabbage Tofu and HMX SU linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a slightly more responsive typing experience and find joy in a clackier and higher-pitched sound profile, the Cabbage Tofu might be your best bet. Its 53-gram bottom-out force provides a medium-light feel that can offer a delightful balance between comfort and tactile feedback, which can enhance your typing speed, especially if you favor quick transitions between keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 50 grams and a more subdued sound profile, then the HMX SU could suit you better. With its deeper sound and smooth typing feel, the SU is ideal for users looking for a quieter and more nuanced experience, particularly in office settings or shared workspaces. In conclusion, consider your typing habits and environment—if you need responsiveness and a more pronounced sound, lean towards the Cabbage Tofu. If silence and seamless gliding are what you desire, the HMX SU is the way to go.
Mentioned in this article
