KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The world of mechanical keyboards offers a plethora of options, each with its own unique features and characteristics to cater to the diverse preferences of typists. Two notable switches in this realm are the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the KTT Semi Mute, both of which fall under the linear switch category. The Cabbage Tofu switch is renowned for its enhanced tactility and responsiveness, made possible by its elongated 22mm spring. This results in a swift rebound after actuation, enabling a seamless transition between keystrokes. The sound profile of the Cabbage Tofu switch is often described as reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding, offering a clacky yet polished and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch, despite its name, delivers completely silent operation, perfect for those who prioritize a noise-free environment during late-night typing sessions. With its advanced dampening technology and linear actuation, the Semi Mute switch provides a buttery and mild typing feel that is notably neutral and muted. While these general pointers offer a glimpse into the characteristics of each switch, let's now delve deeper to help you make an informed decision regarding the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The KTT Cabbage Tofu and KTT Semi Mute share a similar use of polycarbonate in their top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, both switches feature a clear housing, indicating the use of polycarbonate. This material is especially beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either switch.
However, the key differentiation lies in the housing materials used for the bottom housing. The Cabbage Tofu utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known to be a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Semi Mute incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing. While the top and bottom housings both feature polycarbonate, the qualities associated with it will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing will have more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will play a greater role in the sound when releasing a key.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the KTT Semi Mute comes down to the desired sound profile and typing experience. The Cabbage Tofu's nylon bottom housing will provide a deeper and fuller sound, while the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing will contribute to a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches offer the benefits of polycarbonate in the top housing, providing a brighter sound profile and compatibility with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can select the switch that best aligns with their preferences for sound and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, there are noticeable similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Cabbage Tofu requires 45 grams of force, while the Semi Mute requires slightly less at 43 grams. Both switches fall within the medium-light range, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience.
However, when it comes to bottom out force, there is a distinction. The Cabbage Tofu has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Semi Mute has a slightly higher bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that the Semi Mute offers a slightly heavier push feel when pressing the keys all the way down, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer that.
Considering the weight aspect, the Cabbage Tofu can be seen as the lighter option between the two, which is beneficial for individuals who require extended typing sessions or engage in long gaming sessions. The lighter actuation force allows for less strain on the fingers over time. On the other hand, the Semi Mute, with its heavier bottom out force, offers a more pronounced tactile feedback, appealing to users who appreciate a stronger push feel while typing.
In summary, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the KTT Semi Mute linear switches offer similar results in terms of actuation force, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, the Cabbage Tofu is the lighter option with a lower bottom out force, while the Semi Mute provides a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and KTT Semi Mute linear switches.
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 KTT Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is known for its improved tactility and responsiveness. When it comes to sound, the Cabbage Tofu switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is designed for those who prioritize a noise-free environment. Despite its name, the Semi Mute switch operates silently and minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Its sound profile is described as muted and neutral.
In terms of feel, the Cabbage Tofu switch offers a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. These switches are smooth, refined, and provide minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The longer 22mm spring of the Cabbage Tofu switch allows for a swift rebound after actuation, resulting in quicker transition between keystrokes. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch provides a buttery and mild typing experience. These switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke with a gentle tactile feel.
Overall, the Cabbage Tofu linear switch excels in providing a tactile and responsive typing experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound. It offers a smooth and snappy feel due to its longer spring. On the other hand, the Semi Mute linear switch prioritizes a noise-free environment with its completely silent operation and muted sound profile. It provides a buttery and mild typing feel. Depending on the user's preference, both switches offer different qualities that cater to specific needs. If a user is looking for a similar sound or feel, they can expect similar results based on their chosen board and keycaps.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for improved tactility and responsiveness, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch would be a great choice. Its lengthened 22mm spring allows for quick rebound after actuation, resulting in a quicker transition between keystrokes. Additionally, its sound profile is described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a crisp and bright sound when pressed. The Cabbage Tofu switch provides a creamy, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, offering smooth key travel and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
On the other hand, if you value a noise-free environment and undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch would be a suitable option. Despite being completely silent in operation, these switches offer a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. They have a neutral sound profile, described as muted, which minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. The Semi Mute switch provides a buttery and mild typing experience, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation, with a gentle feel that is approachable to most users.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Cabbage Tofu and Semi Mute linear switches depends on your specific preferences and requirements. Consider factors such as tactile responsiveness, noise level, and typing feel to determine which switch aligns best with your needs. Whether you prioritize improved tactility and responsiveness or a noise-free environment, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
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