Gateron Aliaz vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz and the KTT Mallo mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique characteristics tailored to different preferences. The Aliaz switch stands out for its quiet and substantial typing feel, making it an ideal choice for office settings or those who appreciate a more pronounced typing feedback without the noise. On the other hand, the Mallo switch is renowned for its subtle tactility and balanced typing experience, suitable for a wide range of typing environments. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision on which switch is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and KTT Mallo both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. On the other hand, while the Aliaz uses polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, the Mallo opts for nylon. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the stiffer polycarbonate.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches feature clear housings, indicating the use of polycarbonate. This makes them visually appealing and allows for the RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall look of the keyboards they are used in. However, where they differ is in the sound profile they produce. The Aliaz's combination of polycarbonate top and bottom housing results in a crisper and more resonant sound, while the Mallo's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in sound profiles can cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Overall, the housing materials used in the Gateron Aliaz and KTT Mallo switches play a significant role in determining the sound profiles they produce. Both switches benefit from the stiffness of polycarbonate in their top housing, creating a clear and sharp sound. However, the difference lies in the bottom housing material, with the Aliaz utilizing polycarbonate for a more resonant sound and the Mallo opting for nylon for a deeper sound. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel when typing, users can choose between these switches to achieve the desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it is evident that they have different weight preferences. The Aliaz has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Mallo has a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, with an unknown actuation force. This makes the Aliaz the heavier option of the two. Some users may prefer the Aliaz for its heavier feel, allowing for a more pronounced keystroke, while others may opt for the Mallo for its lighter touch, suitable for long typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual preference for weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users will experience a similar amount of key travel when typing on keyboards equipped with either of these switches. The consistent travel distance of 4 mm on both switches ensures that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of key press depth. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer a standard amount of key travel, providing tactile feedback for a satisfying typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The KTT Mallo has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mallo for $4.40.
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 Gateron Aliaz offers a muted experience with softer and quieter keystrokes, making it ideal for quiet environments such as the office. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo provides a more subdued and neutral sound profile that strikes a balance between being noticeable yet not overpowering, making it versatile for various typing environments. Both switches offer a quiet typing experience, but the Mallo may have a slightly more subtle sound signature compared to the Aliaz.
Moving on to feel, the Aliaz switch is described as silky and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Mallo switch is characterized as feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle, offering a light and gentle typing feel with a slightly more noticeable tactile bump than the Aliaz. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Aliaz focusing on smoothness and the Mallo offering a more gentle and versatile feel.
Overall, both the Gateron Aliaz and KTT Mallo switches cater to different preferences in typing experience. The Aliaz excels in providing a substantial and smooth typing feel with a muted sound, making it suitable for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback in a quiet environment. On the other hand, the Mallo offers a gentler and more subtle tactile feel with a neutral sound profile, appealing to those who seek a balanced typing experience in various settings. Ultimately, both switches deliver quality performance with their own unique characteristics, providing users with reliable options to enhance their typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it's important to consider your personal preferences and typing environment. If you prefer a heavier typing feel and a more pronounced tactile feedback in a quiet office setting, you may lean towards the Aliaz switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing feel with a subtle tactility and a neutral sound profile that can adapt to various environments, the Mallo switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose based on what aligns best with your typing style and needs.
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