KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both offer unique features suited to different preferences. The Cabbage Tofu switch stands out for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to the lengthened 22mm spring that enables a swift rebound after actuation, resulting in a quicker transition between keystrokes. With a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, this switch is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Snappy'. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch distinguishes itself with a deeper sound profile and a silky smoothness, attributed to its full nylon housings and delicate 42g actuation force. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', 'Bouncy', and 'Creamy', the Swift offers a different typing experience compared to the Cabbage Tofu. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Swift differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Cabbage Tofu utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound due to its relatively stiff nature. This material is ideal for enhancing the clarity and resonance of the switch's sound, especially when combined with RGB lighting. Conversely, the Swift features a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound and creates a rounder tone. While both materials contribute to a distinct sound profile, the polycarbonate of the Cabbage Tofu offers a sharper sound, while the nylon of the Swift results in a deeper tone.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Swift use nylon, which enhances the depth and fullness of the sound produced by the switches. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. While the specific qualities of the bottom housing may not be as noticeable as those of the top housing when typing, they still play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch. The consistency of using nylon for the bottom housing in both switches ensures that they provide a similar sound experience in terms of depth and fullness.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for switches such as the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Swift greatly impacts the sound profile and user experience. The contrast between the polycarbonate top housing of the Cabbage Tofu and the nylon top housing of the Swift highlights the differences in sound sharpness and depth between the two switches. However, the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches guarantees a similar level of sound richness and fullness. Whether it be a sharper sound of the polycarbonate or a deeper tone of the nylon, each housing material brings its own unique qualities to the overall sound profile of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is clear that the Cabbage Tofu is slightly heavier than the Swift. The Cabbage Tofu has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Swift has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches fall into the lighter category, with the Swift being slightly lighter than the Cabbage Tofu. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer durations, the Swift may be the better option. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Cabbage Tofu may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the realm of traditional travel distances for mechanical keyboards, with the Cabbage Tofu being slightly longer. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Swift due to its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may prefer the Cabbage Tofu. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and typing experience.
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 Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch provides a clacky sound profile that is both crisp and high-pitched, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch also has a clacky sound but with a deeper profile due to its full nylon housings. Both switches offer a unique sound experience that can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard's board and keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch offers a creamy and polished typing experience, providing a smooth and buttery sensation with each keystroke. Additionally, the switch is described as silky and snappy due to its lengthened 22mm spring, enhancing responsiveness. In contrast, the HMX Swift linear switch is known for being easy-to-press and feathery, requiring minimal force to activate with a light actuation force of 42g. Both switches cater to different preferences in typing feel, with the Cabbage Tofu focusing on smoothness and the Swift emphasizing lightness and ease of typing.
Overall, when comparing the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that they offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cabbage Tofu excels in providing a clacky and high-pitched sound profile along with a creamy and polished typing experience, while the Swift delivers a deeper clacky sound and an easy-to-press, feathery feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, either switch can enhance the overall mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, users can expect satisfying results from both switches, with similar levels of quality and performance despite the differences in their subjective qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the HMX Swift linear switches, consider the following factors. If you value a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a switch with improved tactility and swift rebound after actuation, the Cabbage Tofu switch may be the perfect choice for you. The sound profile of Mahjong tiles colliding and the creamy, polished, and snappy feel offer a unique typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a deeper sound profile with silky smoothness, the HMX Swift switch might suit your preferences better. The easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy feel of the Swift switch provides a comfortable and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the kind of typing experience you are looking for.
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