KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are countless options available, each with its unique features and characteristics. Two popular switches worth comparing and contrasting are the KTT Cabbage Tofu, a linear switch, and the Durock White Lotus, a tactile switch. The Cabbage Tofu switch is renowned for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring. With a swift rebound after actuation, typists can seamlessly transition between keystrokes, resulting in a fluid typing experience. Additionally, its sound profile evokes memories of Mahjong tiles colliding, offering a distinct auditory experience. On the other hand, the White Lotus switch is designed specifically for discerning typists who value delicate tactility. These switches strike the perfect balance, making them ideal for long work or typing sessions without overwhelming the user. With the added perk of a removable light column, the White Lotus switches allow for vibrant and luminous RGB lighting effects, enhancing the aesthetics of your keyboard setup. Both switches offer unique advantages, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Durock White Lotus, it is evident that there are notable differences. In terms of the top housing, the Cabbage Tofu utilizes polycarbonate, while the White Lotus utilizes a modified PC and UPE Blend. The polycarbonate material in the Cabbage Tofu creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It is also great for showcasing RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the modified PC and UPE Blend housing of the White Lotus offers a unique and premium feel, providing a different user experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon material. Nylon has a profound impact on the sound profile of a switch as it elicits a deeper and fuller sound. However, there is a slight difference in the description. The Cabbage Tofu's nylon bottom housing is said to create a duller and rounder sound, whereas the White Lotus's nylon bottom housing is only mentioned to absorb more sound, resulting in a similar outcome of a deeper and fuller sound. Therefore, it can be said that both switches would provide a similar typing experience when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel.
In conclusion, while the Cabbage Tofu and the White Lotus differ in the materials used for their top housings, they both deliver distinct sound profiles. Polycarbonate in the Cabbage Tofu generates a sharper and crisper sound, while the modified PC and UPE Blend in the White Lotus offers a unique premium feel. Additionally, although their nylon bottom housings are described slightly differently, they both contribute to a deeper and fuller sound. Whether you choose the Cabbage Tofu or the White Lotus, you can expect a satisfying typing experience, although with their own individual characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, they exhibit similar characteristics. The Cabbage Tofu has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the White Lotus has an actuation force of 46 grams, making them both relatively light. In terms of bottom out force, the Cabbage Tofu requires 53 grams, while the White Lotus demands 56 grams, again showcasing a similarity in the medium-light range. Therefore, both switches offer a comparable typing experience in terms of actuation and bottoming out forces. Those seeking a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming would find satisfaction with either option, while those desiring a stronger push for a more substantial typing feel can also find solace in both switches.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent 4 mm of travel distance. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance you feel when pressing down on a key with both of these switches.
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 Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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 has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. These switches produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. The sound produced by these switches is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. They have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for most purposes.
In terms of feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch offers a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. These switches are known for their smooth and buttery feel, thanks to applied lubricant or specific materials. Typing on these switches provides a silky sensation, with easy gliding of fingers across the keys and effortless keystrokes. Additionally, the snappiness of these switches enhances the overall typing experience, making it feel more alive.
On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offers an easy-to-press, mild, and subtle typing experience. These switches have gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The feel of these switches is approachable to most, as they offer a low-impact typing feel with a safe middle-ground zone. The sound and feel of the switches are also suitable for shared spaces, as they are not resonant.
In conclusion, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cabbage Tofu has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a crisp and bright sound, while the White Lotus has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. When it comes to feel, the Cabbage Tofu offers a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, while the White Lotus offers an easy-to-press, mild, and subtle feel. It is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Depending on your preferences, both switches can provide satisfying results, with the Cabbage Tofu offering a more snappy and responsive experience, and the White Lotus offering a gentle and low-impact typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with improved tactility and responsiveness, the KTT Cabbage Tofu would be a great choice. With its lengthened 22mm spring, you can expect a swift rebound after actuation and a quick transition between keystrokes. The sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu can be described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. When it comes to feel, the Cabbage Tofu offers a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, allowing you to glide your fingers effortlessly across the keys.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch that strikes the perfect balance between tactility and lightness, the Durock White Lotus would be a suitable option. These switches are designed with the discerning typist in mind, offering a delicate tactility that won't overwhelm the user during work or extended typing sessions. The White Lotus switches also feature a removable light column, allowing for vibrant and luminous RGB lighting effects. The sound profile of the White Lotus can be described as low-pitched and neutral, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. In terms of feel, the White Lotus offers an easy-to-press, mild, and subtle typing experience, enhancing the typing experience with a responsive and low-impact feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch depends on your preferences for tactility, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider whether you prioritize improved tactility and swiftness between keystrokes or a delicate tactile experience with balanced lightness. Additionally, think about whether you prefer a clacky, high-pitched sound or a low-pitched, neutral sound. Lastly, consider whether you enjoy a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy feel or an easy-to-press, mild, and subtle feel. By considering these factors, you can choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.