KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch. The Cabbage Tofu switch stands out for its improved tactility and responsiveness, thanks to its lengthened 22mm spring that provides a swift rebound after actuation. This results in a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, making it ideal for typists looking for a clacky, creamy, and snappy experience. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver switch shines in the gaming realm, offering maximum speed with its linear action and low spring resistance that triggers instantly. Categorized as textured and thocky, it is a favorite among gamers where every millisecond counts. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your specific needs and preferences, so let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities to help you decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon as a housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. However, the Cabbage Tofu also incorporates polycarbonate in its top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. This difference in materials between the two switches can affect the overall typing experience, with the Cabbage Tofu offering a more distinct sound while the MX Speed Silver provides a more rounded sound.
Despite both switches featuring nylon in their bottom housing, the Cabbage Tofu stands out with its additional polycarbonate top housing, which enhances the sound profile by making it clearer and more resonant. In contrast, the MX Speed Silver's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller sound overall. This difference in materials showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the sound produced by a mechanical switch, ultimately affecting the typing experience for users.
Overall, while the Cabbage Tofu offers a unique combination of polycarbonate and nylon in its housing materials, the MX Speed Silver sticks to nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This difference in construction leads to a more distinct sound profile for the Cabbage Tofu, particularly when incorporating RGB lighting due to the translucency of polycarbonate. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver provides a more traditional typing experience with its use of nylon throughout, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound during typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it is evident that the MX Speed Silver is lighter in terms of actuation force at 30 grams, compared to the 45 grams required by the Cabbage Tofu. As for the bottom out force, the Cabbage Tofu is heavier at 53 grams, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver force is unknown. These differences in force levels cater to different preferences, with the Cabbage Tofu offering a more medium-light typing experience and the Cherry MX Speed Silver potentially providing a lighter typing feel. Depending on personal preference, users may opt for the lighter actuation force of the MX Speed Silver for extended typing or gaming sessions, or the heavier bottom out force of the Cabbage Tofu for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, each switch offers a unique feel based on its force requirements, and users can choose accordingly to suit their typing preferences.
Travel distance
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Cherry MX Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance compared to the KTT Cabbage Tofu. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Cherry MX Speed Silver due to its shorter travel distance. However, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the KTT Cabbage Tofu with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual preference in terms of 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 Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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 linear switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, giving off a sharp and snappy noise reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch produces a thocky and low-pitched sound when pressed, offering a deep and rich tone. Both switches provide distinct auditory experiences, with the Cabbage Tofu being more crisp and bright, while the MX Speed Silver delivers a more bass-heavy and mellow sound.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch offers a creamy, polished, and silky typing experience, with a smooth and buttery sensation that enhances typing comfort and ease. The switch is also described as snappy, adding to its responsive nature. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is described as textured, suggesting some noticeable friction when pressed that may cater to specific user preferences. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback, with the Cabbage Tofu providing a more refined and effortless keystroke experience compared to the tactile texture of the MX Speed Silver.
Overall, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch stands out for its improved tactility and responsiveness, offering a swift rebound after actuation and a clacky sound profile that is complemented by its creamy, polished, and silky feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch excels in rapid response and maximum speed, triggering instantly with a thocky, low-pitched sound that may appeal to gamers seeking quick keystroke feedback. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences in sound, feel, and typing dynamics, but both options offer quality performance for different user needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prioritize a swift rebound after actuation and a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, the Cabbage Tofu may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you require maximum speed and instant triggering for gaming purposes, as well as a thocky sound profile, the MX Speed Silver could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and intended use for the keyboard switches.
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