KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the PH Studio Yoel mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Cabbage Tofu switch is known for its enhanced tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring that provides a swift rebound after actuation. This results in a quicker transition between keystrokes and a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Yoel switch offers a chewy typing experience and a bright, clacky sound profile that is satisfying and pronounced. Both switches are categorized as 'clacky', 'creamy', 'high-pitched', 'polished', and 'silky', but the Yoel also includes 'marbly' and 'resonant' in its characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The KTT Cabbage Tofu and PH Studio Yoel both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances resonance and clarity in sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to nylon's softer and more sound-absorbing properties. In contrast, the Yoel's POM bottom housing creates a unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper and more muted side.
While both the Cabbage Tofu and Yoel share polycarbonate top housing material, their bottom housing materials differ, resulting in varying sound profiles. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows each part of the switch to contribute different qualities to the overall sound and feel. The bottom housing, whether nylon or POM, has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and overall typing experience. Conversely, the top housing's influence is more pronounced when releasing a key, affecting the sound during key release. This split in housing materials adds complexity and nuance to the sound produced by each switch.
Overall, the choice between the Cabbage Tofu and Yoel may come down to personal preferences in sound profile and typing experience. The Cabbage Tofu offers a sharper and clearer sound with its polycarbonate top housing, while the nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. In comparison, the Yoel's polycarbonate top housing also delivers a sharp sound profile, with the POM bottom housing offering a unique and muted sound. Whether you prioritize clarity and resonance or prefer a deeper, more muted sound, both switches provide a distinct typing experience based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that the Cabbage Tofu is lighter in both aspects. The Cabbage Tofu has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it lighter overall compared to the Yoel, which has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches provide a smooth linear feel, but the Cabbage Tofu offers a slightly lighter typing experience, which may be preferred by those looking for a more effortless typing sensation. On the other hand, the Yoel provides a bit more resistance, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing experience. In terms of weight, the Cabbage Tofu is the lighter option, while the Yoel is slightly heavier, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming activities. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional option. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it a shallower option. Gamers may prefer the Yoel switch for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Cabbage Tofu switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 PH Studio Yoel has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yoel for $4.10.
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, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and PH Studio Yoel switches are described as clacky and high-pitched, offering a sharp and crisp auditory experience. The Cabbage Tofu switch produces a sound reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, while the Yoel switch has a bright and clacky profile with a pronounced resonance at the bottom-out point. The Yoel switch also adds a marbly and resonant quality to its sound profile, providing an immersive auditory experience. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen for the setup.
In terms of feel, both the Cabbage Tofu and Yoel switches are described as creamy, polished, and silky, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The creamy sensation of gliding fingers across the keys with ease is present in both switches, enhancing the overall typing feel and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, the snappy responsiveness of the Cabbage Tofu switch, attributed to its lengthened 22mm spring, provides a lively typing experience that transitions swiftly between keystrokes.
In conclusion, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and PH Studio Yoel linear switches offer similar subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cabbage Tofu switch provides a swift rebound after actuation and a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, the Yoel switch envelops fingertips with a delectably chewy typing experience and has a bright and clacky sound profile with a pronounced resonance. Choosing between these switches would ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel, with both options offering a satisfying and premium mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider the following guidelines: choose the Cabbage Tofu if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, improved tactility, and a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. The Cabbage Tofu also offers a creamy, polished, and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Yoel if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, a bright and clacky sound profile with resonant characteristics. The Yoel provides a creamy, polished, and silky typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and actuation force.
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