KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gazzew U4 are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique experiences for users. The Cabbage Tofu, a linear switch, stands out with its improved tactility and responsiveness. Thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring, users will enjoy a swift rebound after actuation, resulting in a quicker transition between keystrokes. Typing on the Cabbage Tofu evokes a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, with options ranging from clacky to creamy, high-pitched to snappy. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4, a tactile switch, boasts a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump that enhances the typing sensation. Additionally, users will be pleasantly surprised by the plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation it provides. The U4 is designed to be whisper quiet, with a sound profile that is muted, low-pitched, and sharp. These general pointers should give you an idea of the unique features each switch offers. 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
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Gazzew U4 differ in terms of their composition and the resulting sound profiles. The Cabbage Tofu features a polycarbonate top housing, which lends itself to a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate creates a clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for incorporating RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the U4 utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, sometimes referred to as "boba plastic." This unique plastic blend produces a rich and deep sound due to its softness. While both top housings enhance the sound experience, the Cabbage Tofu emphasizes clarity, while the U4 prioritizes richness.
Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the two switches also differ in composition and sound profile. The Cabbage Tofu utilizes a nylon bottom housing, a classic material known for its ability to evoke a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 incorporates its proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, or "boba plastic," which enhances the sound experience through its softness. The U4's bottom housing complements the overall sound profile by contributing to a rich and deep sound.
Considering the impact of both top and bottom housings on the overall sound and feel of the switch, the Cabbage Tofu and the Gazzew U4 deliver distinct results. The qualities of the bottom housing are more pronounced when pressing down on the switch, particularly affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, the material used for the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. While the Cabbage Tofu's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound, the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing contributes to a rich and deep sound profile. Thus, the selection of housing materials in each switch allows for different sound characteristics to be experienced in various typing scenarios.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, some noticeable differences emerge. The Cabbage Tofu has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the U4's 43 grams. This means that the U4 requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cabbage Tofu requires 53 grams, while the U4 demands a heavier 62 grams. This indicates that the Cabbage Tofu provides a lighter typing experience overall, perfect for those who prefer a lighter weight to type for longer periods without strain. On the other hand, the U4 offers a heavier push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger tactile feedback. Despite their differences, both switches fall into the medium range, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for most users.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Comparing the two, it is evident that the Cabbage Tofu has a slightly longer travel distance than the U4.
A 4.0mm travel distance is considered more traditional, offering a familiar depth when typing. On the other hand, the U4 with its 3.6 mm travel distance falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which have gained popularity, especially among gamers seeking faster response times.
If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, opting for the shorter travel distance of the U4 would be ideal. However, for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on keys, the longer travel distance of the Cabbage Tofu would be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the level of responsiveness or depth desired during typing.
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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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 when pressed. This results in a sharp and snappy sound profile, similar to the collision of Mahjong tiles. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a muted sound profile, meaning it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. Its low-pitched sound gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Cabbage Tofu linear switch offers a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. With a smooth and buttery feel, it provides a gliding sensation as fingers effortlessly melt into each keystroke. The polished finish and reduced friction result in a sleek typing experience, while the silky smoothness minimizes resistance during key presses and releases. The snappy nature of the switch is attributed to its longer or dual-staged springs, making the typing experience feel more alive. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is characterized by its sharp tactile bump. This provides a high feedback intensity, and each keypress distinctly brings out the crispness of the tactile bump.
In conclusion, based on the available information, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. The Cabbage Tofu switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, along with a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the U4 switch offers a muted and low-pitched sound, accompanied by a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump. Both switches bring unique qualities to the table, and the choice ultimately depends on personal preferences. However, if you prefer a quieter sound profile and a tactile typing experience, the U4 switch would be a suitable choice. If you prefer a sharper sound and a linear typing experience, the Cabbage Tofu switch would be a better fit.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a swift rebound after actuation, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch would be a great choice. It offers improved tactility and responsiveness, giving you a quick transition between keystrokes. Additionally, if you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Cabbage Tofu switch would be a good fit for you. When it comes to feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch provides a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force and a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is the way to go. It offers a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation and has a sound profile that is whisper quiet, making it perfect for those who prefer a muted and low-pitched sound. Overall, the choice between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch depends on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and feel.
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