KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Outemu Yellow Silver. Both switches belong to the linear switch category, offering a smooth keystroke experience. The Cabbage Tofu switch stands out with its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring. Typists will notice a swift rebound after actuation, enabling quicker transitions between keystrokes. The sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu switch is reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, providing a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch by Outemu is widely favored by both gamers and typists for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile. This switch offers speediness and responsiveness, ideal for those who seek efficient keystrokes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing or gaming needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Outemu Yellow Silver both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, being a relatively stiffer plastic, results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches will provide similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits due to their polycarbonate top housings.
On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu and the Yellow Silver differ in their bottom housings, with the former utilizing nylon and the latter also opting for nylon. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Therefore, both switches will provide a similar typing experience, eliciting a duller and rounder sound due to the nylon bottom housing.
When it comes to the overall sound and feel of the switch, the qualities brought by the housing materials are split between the top and bottom. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when you press down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when you let go of a key. Therefore, while the Cabbage Tofu and the Yellow Silver may have similar characteristics in their top and bottom housing materials, the specific distribution of these qualities will differ, resulting in subtle variations in the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it is clear that they share the same actuation force of 45 grams. This means that both switches require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a slight difference. The Cabbage Tofu has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Yellow Silver has a slightly higher bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Yellow Silver switch would provide a slightly stronger push feel for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience.
Weight is an important consideration when choosing between these switches. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience, which allows for longer periods of typing, may lean towards the Cabbage Tofu switch. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the Yellow Silver switch with its slightly heavier bottom out force. It is worth noting that both switches fall under the category of medium-light in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. Therefore, while there is a slight difference between the two, individuals who choose either switch can expect similar results in terms of typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same distance traveled for both switches. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and overall typing experience provided by both switches. Both switches offer a comfortable and responsive feel to the user. No difference in travel distance exists between the two switches, making them equal in this aspect.
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 Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch is often described as clacky and high-pitched. This means that when the switch is pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound that is neither too loud nor too quiet. It is a more versatile option suitable for both gamers and typists who prefer a speediness and responsiveness. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch offers a variety of descriptors. It is often described as creamy, polished, silky, and snappy. This means that it provides a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The switch feels exceptionally smooth and enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The snappy nature of the switch adds a lively and responsive feel to each keystroke. Unfortunately, there is no available information on the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch.
Based on the available information, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch offers improved tactility and responsiveness with a swift rebound and a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. It provides a clacky and high-pitched sound and a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is known for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, making it favorable for gamers and typists who prefer speediness and responsiveness. While the Yellow Silver switch lacks specific information on its feel, it offers a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. Ultimately, both switches have their unique qualities and it will depend on the individual's preference and typing style to determine which one is the better fit.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with improved tactility and responsiveness, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is a great choice. With its lengthened spring, you will experience a swift rebound after actuation, allowing for a quicker transition between keystrokes. The Cabbage Tofu also produces a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, which can add an extra level of satisfaction to your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is the way to go. This switch is favored by gamers and typists who prioritize speediness and responsiveness. While the Yellow Silver does not have specific descriptors for its sound and feel, its neutral characteristics make it suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for tactility, sound, and typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
