KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cabbage Tofu switch stands out for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its 22mm spring that enables a swift rebound after actuation. This results in a quicker transition between keystrokes and a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Snappy', the Cabbage Tofu switch is ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch is renowned for its neutral sound profile and distinctive bounce from the extended spring. At a 55g bottom-out, these switches provide a comfortable medium-light typing experience. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the Windy Shadow switches are perfect for those who prefer a smoother typing feel. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Aflion Windy Shadow feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a sturdy plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. With similar top housings, both switches are likely to deliver comparable auditory experiences to users, emphasizing clarity and precision in sound production.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Cabbage Tofu and the Windy Shadow utilize nylon, offering a different sound profile from the top housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that enhances the tactile feedback when typing on the switches. Despite the differences in top housing materials, the nylon bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent typing experience with an emphasis on depth and resonance in sound production.
While the top and bottom housings of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and Aflion Windy Shadow differ in material composition, they each play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel upon pressing a key, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. By combining polycarbonate and nylon in their housing designs, both switches aim to provide users with a balanced and satisfying typing experience that merges precision, clarity, depth, and resonance in sound production.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, we can see some differences. The Cabbage Tofu has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Windy Shadow, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar medium-light bottom out force, with the Cabbage Tofu at 53 grams and the Windy Shadow at 55 grams. This means that while the Cabbage Tofu may provide a slightly lighter typing experience in terms of actuation force, both switches offer a similar resistance when fully pressed, resulting in a comparable typing feel. When considering weight, some may find the Cabbage Tofu more suitable for longer typing sessions due to its lighter actuation force, while others may prefer the Windy Shadow for a slightly stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Cabbage Tofu has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Windy Shadow. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Cabbage Tofu falls within the traditional range, providing a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Windy Shadow is on the shorter side, ideal for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired 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 Aflion Windy Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Windy Shadow for $3.91.
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 subjective qualities of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch differ in terms of sound and feel. The Cabbage Tofu switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, resembling Mahjong tiles colliding, while the Windy Shadow switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. When it comes to feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch offers a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, with a swift rebound after actuation, while the Windy Shadow switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience with a distinctive bounce from its extended spring.
Overall, if you prefer a sharper, crisper sound with a more responsive and snappier typing experience, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more bass-heavy and mellow sound with a smoother and gentler typing feel, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
Therefore, when considering the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch versus the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, think about your typing preferences and needs. If you prioritize a smooth and buttery typing experience with a swift rebound after actuation, along with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Cabbage Tofu might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce and a comfortable medium-light bottom-out force, the Windy Shadow could be a better fit. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style.
Mentioned in this article
