Kailh Berry vs. KTT Cabbage Tofu

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, you have a wide range of options to choose from, each with its own unique features and benefits. Two popular options that showcase distinct characteristics are the Kailh Berry and the KTT Cabbage Tofu switches, both linear switches. The Berry switch is well-known for its hefty typing experience, offering a springy feel and a chalk-like texture when typing. Its sound profile is fairly deep, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a low-pitched and bassy sound. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu switch boasts improved tactility and responsiveness. With its lengthened 22mm spring, users will notice a swift rebound after actuation, enabling a quicker transition between keystrokes. Furthermore, the Cabbage Tofu switch delivers a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, offering a clacky, creamy, high-pitched, polished, silky, and snappy experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh Berry Linear

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

$6.25 per 10

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

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Housing materials

The Kailh Berry and the KTT Cabbage Tofu share similar housing materials, as they both use polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. So, users can expect similar sound and aesthetic results when using either the Berry or the Cabbage Tofu switches for their keyboards.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Berry and the Cabbage Tofu differ slightly. The Berry utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which generates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu also features a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile. Both switches benefit from the acoustic properties of nylon, enhancing the auditory experience for users.

When using either the Berry or the Cabbage Tofu switches, the impact on the sound and feel of a keypress will depend on which housing material is used. The bottom housing's qualities will be more noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel, whereas the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect slightly different tactile experiences depending on the housing materials used in these switches, but both will provide a satisfying overall typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch, there are notable differences. The Berry switch has an actuation force that is unknown, making it difficult to determine how it compares to the 45 grams actuation force of the Cabbage Tofu. However, the Berry switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. In contrast, the Cabbage Tofu has a lower bottom out force of 53 grams, placing it in the medium-light category.

Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Cabbage Tofu switch with its 45 grams actuation force, which allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. This could be ideal for individuals using the keyboard extensively for work or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users may prefer the stronger push feel provided by the Berry switch's unknown actuation force, as it offers a more substantial typing experience. These individuals might favor the heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, which can provide a satisfying keystroke sensation.

In summary, the Berry switch features a heavier bottom out force while its actuation force remains unknown, while the Cabbage Tofu switch has a lower bottom out force of 53 grams and a known actuation force of 45 grams. Selecting between the two switches depends on personal preferences, with some users favoring a lighter and more effortless typing experience, while others seek a more substantial and firm keystroke sensation.

Travel distance

The Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of the traditional travel distance of a switch, with the Berry being on the shallower side and the Cabbage Tofu being slightly deeper. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Berry switch as it allows for faster response times. However, for those who prefer a more substantial depth to each keystroke, the longer travel distance of the Cabbage Tofu switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness and depth of keystrokes.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh Berry linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy profile. This means that it produces a deeper and mellow sound during key presses, similar to the tone associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound. When pressed, it produces a sharp and crisp sound, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. The choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, as well as other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. If you prefer a deeper and richer sound, the Berry would be a better option. If you prefer a sharper and more crisp sound, the Cabbage Tofu would be the way to go.

In terms of feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch provides a textured typing experience. This means that there is noticeable friction when pressing the keys, giving a tactile feedback that some users prefer. On the other hand, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch offers a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. These switches are smooth, refined, and enhance the overall smoothness of the typing feel. They minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys, allowing for a more effortless glide across the keys. Again, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for typing feel. If you prefer a textured feel with noticeable friction, the Berry would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a smooth and buttery feel with reduced friction and snappy responsiveness, the Cabbage Tofu would be more fitting.

Considering all the available information, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch offer different subjective qualities. The Berry provides a springy and chalk-like texture when typing, with a deep and bassy sound profile. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu offers improved tactility and responsiveness, with a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding and a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing feel. It's important to take into account personal preferences for sound and feel when choosing between the two switches. If you are seeking a deeper and mellow sound with a textured feel, the Berry would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a sharper and crisper sound with a creamy and smooth feel, the Cabbage Tofu would be more fitting.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prefer a typing experience with a heavier bottom out force and a springy feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch is the way to go. These switches offer a chalk-like texture when typing and have a deep sound profile, characterized by low-pitched and bassy tones. On the other hand, if you value improved tactility and responsiveness, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is a great choice. With its lengthened 22mm spring, you'll experience a swift rebound after actuation, resulting in quicker transitions between keystrokes. The sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu switch is clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound. In terms of feel, the Berry switch has a textured sensation, while the Cabbage Tofu switch offers a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. Consider your preferences for bottom out force, feel, and sound when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal preference and typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Berry Linear

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

Learn more