KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Haimu Viola Tricolor offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cabbage Tofu switch stands out for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring, which ensures a swift rebound after actuation. This allows for a seamless transition between keystrokes, enhancing typing speed. Additionally, the Cabbage Tofu switch produces a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, resulting in a clacky and polished sound. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch is known for its thuddy and punchy sound profile, which adds character to the typing experience. It offers a pronounced tactility that provides satisfying feedback without being overly tactile. With a perfect balance between sharp sensation and user comfort, the Viola Tricolor switch is categorized as accented, bassy, invigorating, and low-pitched. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your personal taste and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, namely polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, share several similarities. Both polycarbonate and nylon contribute to creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because both materials possess distinct properties that enhance the sound produced by the keyboard switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding to the aesthetic appeal of both keyboards.
One notable difference between the two is the impact of their respective housing materials on the overall sound profile. While polycarbonate is relatively stiffer and offers a more resonant sound profile, nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Therefore, users typing on the Cabbage Tofu, with its nylon bottom housing, may experience a slightly duller and rounder sound compared to the Viola Tricolor, which incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing.
Another distinction lies in the sensation felt when pressing down on the switches. The bottom housing material has a more pronounced impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Consequently, users of the Cabbage Tofu may perceive a different tactile experience compared to those of the Viola Tricolor, as the switch's bottom housing material influences this aspect more significantly. Conversely, the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound produced when a key is released, further differentiating the auditory experience between the two keyboards.
In summary, while both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Haimu Viola Tricolor utilize polycarbonate for their top housing materials and nylon for the bottom housing, there are subtle variations in the sound profile and tactile feedback. With polycarbonate contributing to a crisper sound and nylon inducing a fuller sound, the Cabbage Tofu may provide a slightly rounder sound profile and varying tactile feel compared to the Viola Tricolor. However, their common use of polycarbonate and nylon ensures that users can expect comparable results in terms of sound enhancement and aesthetic appeal.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Cabbage Tofu has a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams, meaning it requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor's actuation force is unavailable, which limits our ability to compare it directly. However, the Viola Tricolor does have a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
Considering weight, the Cabbage Tofu is lighter overall, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions where finger fatigue may become a concern. Its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams strikes a good balance between comfort and resistance. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor is heavier, offering a more robust typing experience for those who prefer a stronger feedback. Its medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams provides a satisfying tactile response.
While the exact actuation force of the Viola Tricolor is unknown, it can be assumed that it falls within a similar range to the Cabbage Tofu. This means that both switches will likely provide similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, it is important to note that the Viola Tricolor will offer a heavier bottom out force, creating a distinct typing experience compared to the Cabbage Tofu. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for either a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offer different travel distances. The Cabbage Tofu has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Viola Tricolor has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm.
A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, while a distance of 3.8 mm is slightly shallower. The shorter travel distance of the Viola Tricolor may be preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times, as the shorter distance allows for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt, and may prefer the Cabbage Tofu with its longer travel distance.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and individual typing style. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Viola Tricolor with its shorter travel distance may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a switch with a deeper keypress feel, the 4 mm travel distance of the Cabbage Tofu may be more suitable. In either case, both switches offer reliable tactile experiences, but with slight differences in travel distance.
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 Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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 is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile. Pressing these switches produces a sharp and snappy sound, similar to the collision of Mahjong tiles. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. This results in a deeper and richer tone during key presses. If you prefer a crisper and brighter sound, the Cabbage Tofu switch is a better choice. However, if you enjoy a more bass-heavy and mellow sound, the Viola Tricolor switch will provide a satisfying acoustic experience. It is important to note that the sound of the switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch provides a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. These switches offer a smooth and buttery sensation when typing, akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The polished finish of the switch reduces friction and ensures a sleek and refined typing experience. Additionally, the silky feel enhances overall smoothness, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The snappy nature of the switch is attributed to its super responsiveness, thanks to longer or dual-staged springs. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch is described as accented and invigorating. It offers a medium amount of tactility to provide prominent feedback without being overwhelming or subtle. The switch has a moderate to firm actuation force, creating a snappy and reactive feel that immerses you in your typing experience.
Considering all the available information, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offer distinct qualities. The Cabbage Tofu switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, along with a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy feel. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch delivers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, along with an accented and invigorating feel. If you desire a sharp and snappy sound with a smooth and buttery typing experience, the Cabbage Tofu switch is a great choice. If you prefer a deeper and richer sound with prominent feedback and a snappy feel, the Viola Tricolor switch will meet your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a swift rebound after actuation and a quick transition between keystrokes, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch would be a great choice for you. Its lengthened 22mm spring ensures improved tactility and responsiveness, allowing for a smoother and faster typing experience. Additionally, the Cabbage Tofu switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, which can be described as sharp, snappy, and crisp.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a touch of character, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch would be more suited to your needs. It offers a pronounced tactility without being overly tactile, striking a perfect balance. The Viola Tricolor switch delivers a thuddy and punchy sound profile, characterized by a bassy and low-pitched tone. This adds depth and richness to your typing experience.
In terms of feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch offers a creamy, polished, and silky typing experience. It feels smooth and refined, with reduced friction and effortless key travel. The switch is also snappy and super responsive, making your typing feel more alive. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch provides an accented and invigorating sensation. It offers a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle, creating an immersive typing feel.
Ultimately, your choice between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch depends on your preferences for rebound, transition speed, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider the factors that matter most to you in order to make an informed decision and enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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