KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The world of mechanical keyboard switches offers a wide array of options to suit every typist's preferences. Two popular choices, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear, are both linear switches known for their distinct features. The Cabbage Tofu switch stands out for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring. Typists will appreciate the swift rebound after actuation, allowing for seamless transitions between keystrokes. The sound profile, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, adds an extra touch of personality to the typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches by Wuque provide an exceptional office and work experience. These switches boast ingeniously designed stem railings with discreet cutouts, effectively reducing switch noise without the need for silicone dampeners. Typists can expect unparalleled responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out, making for tranquil yet precise typing. While these general pointers can help narrow down your options, let's dive deeper into the details to ensure you can make an informed decision about the best switch for your needs.
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
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear differ in terms of their composition. The Cabbage Tofu features a polycarbonate top housing, while the WS Silent Linear has a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Therefore, the Cabbage Tofu is likely to produce a more clear and resonant sound, while the WS Silent Linear will create a duller and rounder sound.
The difference in material continues with the bottom housings of the two switches. The Cabbage Tofu utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the WS Silent Linear also employs a nylon bottom housing. As with the top housing, the use of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both the Cabbage Tofu and the WS Silent Linear are likely to offer a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch have distinct roles in determining the overall sound profile. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing are more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing plays a greater role in the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Cabbage Tofu's polycarbonate top housing may provide a sharper sound on release, the WS Silent Linear's nylon top housing will contribute to a more muffled sound. Overall, the choice between the two switch housings depends on the desired sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, we can see some notable differences. The Cabbage Tofu has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the WS Silent Linear's actuation force is unknown. However, both switches have a bottom out force, with the Cabbage Tofu requiring 53 grams and the WS Silent Linear requiring 63.5 grams.
In terms of weight, the lighter actuation force of the Cabbage Tofu might be appealing to those who prefer a lighter typing experience. This lower force allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for keyboard usage during work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the higher bottom out force of the WS Silent Linear offers a stronger push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier switch.
While we don't know the exact actuation force of the WS Silent Linear, we can infer that it falls within the medium to heavy range based on its higher bottom out force. Both switches offer a different typing experience in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to select the option that aligns with their preference.
In conclusion, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch provides a medium-light actuation force and bottom out force, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear offers a potentially medium-heavy actuation force and a heavier bottom out force. The choice between these switches will depend on an individual's preference for lighter or heavier typing experiences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, it is clear that the Cabbage Tofu has a longer distance of 4 mm, while the WS Silent Linear has a shorter distance of 3.5 mm. The Cabbage Tofu falls into the more traditional range of travel distances at 4.0 mm, while the WS Silent Linear is on the more shallow side at 3.5 mm. Gamers, who often prioritize faster response times, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the WS Silent Linear. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may find the longer travel distance of the Cabbage Tofu more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness or a sense of depth.
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 Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear comes in at $4.20 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 is known for producing a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed. This sound profile is sharp, crisp, and percussive, similar to the collision of Mahjong tiles. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch offers a more neutral, muted, and subdued sound. It produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. While it may not be completely silent, it offers a more subtle sound signature. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. If you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound, the Cabbage Tofu switch will deliver that experience. However, if you prefer a more neutral and muted sound, the WS Silent Linear switch is a great choice.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch offers a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. The switch is smooth and buttery, either due to lubricant applied at the factory or specific materials used. Typing on these switches feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, with each keystroke blending seamlessly. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch provides a more mild and gentle typing experience. It falls into a safe middle-ground zone, suitable for most users. While it doesn't have pronounced characteristics, it still offers a smooth and refined finish, reducing friction and providing smooth key travel. The WS Silent Linear switch offers a typing feel that is approachable and comfortable for most.
In conclusion, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is characterized by a clacky, high-pitched sound and a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy feel. It offers improved tactility and responsiveness, allowing for a quick transition between keystrokes. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch provides a more neutral, muted, and subdued sound. It prioritizes reducing switch noise while maintaining responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out. The typing experience is mild, gentle, and approachable. Both switches offer their own unique qualities and it ultimately depends on personal preference. If you desire a sharper sound with a smooth and snappy feel, go for the Cabbage Tofu switch. If a quieter sound and a mild, refined feel are more appealing, the WS Silent Linear switch is a great choice.
Conclusion
In summary, if you prioritize a swift rebound after actuation and enjoy a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, the Cabbage Tofu linear switch would be a great choice for you. The Cabbage Tofu offers improved tactility and responsiveness with its lengthened 22mm spring, providing a quicker transition between keystrokes. Its clacky and high-pitched sound profile adds a crisp and percussive element to your typing experience. On the other hand, if you value a quieter typing experience without sacrificing responsiveness, the WS Silent Linear switch by Wuque Studio would be the better option. These switches masterfully reduce switch noise through ingeniously designed stem railings with discreet cutouts, creating a muted and subdued sound profile. The WS Silent Linear switch offers unparalleled responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out, without the usual cushioned sensation of traditional silent switches. Ultimately, your choice between the Cabbage Tofu and the WS Silent Linear would depend on whether you prefer a clacky, high-pitched sound with a swift rebound or a muted, subdued sound with exceptional responsiveness.