KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Sunset Gleam both stand out as compelling options for linear switch enthusiasts. The Cabbage Tofu is renowned for its improved tactility and responsiveness, featuring a unique 22mm spring that facilitates swift rebounds after each keystroke, creating an exhilarating typing experience. This switch is characterized by a sound profile akin to Mahjong tiles clashing, earning it descriptors like "clacky" and "snappy," making it ideal for those who appreciate a lively auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, affectionately dubbed the Duck Duck switch, offers a superb balance between material composition and craftsmanship, resulting in a subtle top-out and satisfying clack, amplified by HMX's exceptional factory lube. While both switches excel in providing smooth actuation and responsiveness, their distinct auditory experiences and build qualities cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Cabbage Tofu and HMX Sunset Gleam switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which lead to distinctly sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate, known for its stiffness, contributes to a clear and resonant auditory experience that enhances keyboard performance. Additionally, the translucency of this material makes both models particularly well-suited for RGB lighting, allowing for vibrant and aesthetically pleasing illumination. As a result, users can expect similar auditory outcomes from both switches when it comes to the sound produced upon releasing keys, with polycarbonate ensuring a bright, clean audio signature that complements any typing experience.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and HMX Sunset Gleam utilize nylon, a material renowned for its sound-dampening qualities. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the sharper tones produced by the polycarbonate top. The inherent softness of nylon absorbs more sound waves and thus contributes to a more muted and rounded auditory experience, which becomes more prominent while typing. Since both switches share this characteristic, users will likely experience a consistent and rich sound when bottoming out the key, showcasing the advantages of nylon in delivering a rounded acoustic experience.
When considering the overall design of both switch types, it is evident that using distinct materials for the top and bottom housings brings a nuanced quality to each switch's performance. With the polycarbonate top housing enhancing clarity and brightness while the nylon bottom housing provides warmth and depth, users can appreciate the harmonious interplay of these materials. The combined effects mean that whether one is typing, gaming, or simply enjoying the auditory feedback from their keyboard, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and HMX Sunset Gleam switches will yield a balanced and satisfying sound profile that reflects the unique attributes of their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Cabbage Tofu features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This makes the Sunset Gleam the lighter option overall, which can be advantageous for users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it requires less force to actuate. Additionally, the bottom out forces indicate that pressing the Sunset Gleam all the way down requires less effort than the Cabbage Tofu, appealing to those who prefer a softer feel. Although both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, users seeking a more substantial push feel may find the heavier Cabbage Tofu more satisfying. Overall, while both switches provide a good typing experience, the Sunset Gleam's lighter force may be better suited for prolonged use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, we find notable differences that cater to varying preferences among users. The Cabbage Tofu has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sunset Gleam measures at 3.5 mm. This makes the Sunset Gleam the shorter option, appealing to those who favor quicker keypress responses typically sought after by gamers. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feedback sensation, which some users may prefer for a more traditional typing experience. Ultimately, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Sunset Gleam might be the better choice, whereas if you lean towards a deeper feel, the Cabbage Tofu would be the way to go.
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 Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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 sound profile of the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch is notably clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and snappy sound reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. This characteristic gives off a crisp and bright auditory experience ideal for those who prefer a more percussive typing sound. However, the HMX Sunset Gleam switch’s sound profile remains undefined in the provided information, which makes it difficult to compare directly. While the Cabbage Tofu provides a clear auditory feedback, we can estimate that the Sunset Gleam may offer its own unique sound characteristics, but without specific details, we can't draw a thorough comparison.
When it comes to feel, the Cabbage Tofu excels with descriptors such as creamy, polished, silky, and snappy, indicating a smooth and luxurious typing experience that minimizes friction and provides responsive feedback. This is achieved through refined materials and likely excellent factory lubrication. In contrast, no specific feel qualities are mentioned for the HMX Sunset Gleam, leaving a gap in understanding how it compares in terms of tactile experience. Thus, while the Cabbage Tofu clearly provides a highly enjoyable typing sensation, the Sunset Gleam's tactile feedback remains a mystery without further description.
In conclusion, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is characterized by its bright, clacky sound and a remarkably smooth, responsive feel, making it a compelling choice for typists who appreciate auditory feedback and a luxurious typing experience. Meanwhile, the HMX Sunset Gleam lacks specific sound and feel descriptors in the available data, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison. While both switches provide the potential for satisfying performance, those seeking an immediate and enhanced tactile and auditory experience may lean towards the Cabbage Tofu until more information about the Sunset Gleam becomes available.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you favor a more tactile experience with a medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams, the Cabbage Tofu is an excellent choice. Its longer 22mm spring ensures quick rebounds for faster transitions, making it great for typists who value speed and responsiveness. Additionally, the clacky sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles offers a lively auditory feedback, enhancing your typing experience, particularly if you appreciate a brighter, high-pitched sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of just 48 grams, the Sunset Gleam may be more suitable for you. This switch provides a subtle yet satisfying clack with excellent factory lubrication, ensuring a smooth typing experience without the harshness of louder switches. Its blend of materials creates a refined feel that caters well to those who enjoy a quieter, more subdued typing environment while still maintaining a pleasant sound when typing. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics, so consider what aspects of typing—force, sound, or feel—are most important to you when making your decision.
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