Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, you are presented with two distinct options that cater to different preferences in typing experience. The Baby Raccoon stands out for its bright sound signature and crisp type feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems, offering a 'marbley' sensation that is both invigorating and polished. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo embodies subtlety and finesse, providing a gentle tactility without overpowering feedback, complemented by a medium-light typing feel and a neutral sound signature. Each switch has its own unique qualities that appeal to different users, making the decision a matter of personal preference. 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
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the KTT Mallo both feature polycarbonate top housings, which produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. With their translucency, these switches are ideal for use with RGB lighting, making them visually appealing as well. Similarly, the nylon bottom housings of both switches create a deeper and fuller sound profile, with nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Baby Raccoon (V2) features a nylon bottom housing, while the KTT Mallo also utilizes polycarbonate for the bottom housing. This means that the qualities each housing material brings to the switch will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. While both switches offer a unique sound experience, the use of different materials in the bottom housing may result in subtle differences in sound and feel between the two switches.
Overall, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the KTT Mallo showcase how different housing materials can impact the sound and feel of a switch. Both switches offer a variety of unique qualities, with polycarbonate top housings creating a sharp and clear sound profile, and nylon bottom housings providing a deeper and fuller sound experience. While the switches share similarities in their top housing materials, the use of different bottom housing materials may lead to slight differences in the overall sound and feel of each switch. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile or a deeper sound experience, both switches offer distinctive qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, we find that the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Mallo's unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Mallo is lighter at 55 grams, while the Baby Raccoon (V2) requires 63 grams to bottom out. This means that the Mallo provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Baby Raccoon (V2) offers a slightly more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, ideal for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6mm compared to the KTT Mallo tactile switch, which has a longer travel distance of 4mm. The Baby Raccoon (V2) offers a more responsive typing experience, ideal for gamers looking for quick response times. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo tactile switch provides a deeper keystroke, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel while typing. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual preferences, with the difference in travel distance catering to different typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a shorter travel distance for speed or a longer travel distance for a more pronounced tactile feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) comes in at $5.50 per 10 switches.
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 Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch offers a resonant, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile, providing an immersive auditory experience with sharp and clean tones. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo tactile switch presents a neutral and subdued sound signature, offering a more moderate and subtle auditory experience suitable for different environments. When considering the feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) is described as creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished, providing a smooth, lively, and refined typing experience. In contrast, the Mallo switch is characterized by a feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle typing feel, offering a light touch with gentle resistance and subdued feedback. Overall, while the Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch delivers a bright and crisp typing experience with a resonant sound profile, the KTT Mallo tactile switch offers a more subtle and versatile typing experience with a neutral sound signature. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, consider the key characteristics that each switch offers. If you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force and a bright, marbly sound signature that is resonant and high-pitched, along with a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing feel, then the Baby Raccoon (V2) may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force and a neutral, subdued sound signature that is suitable for most environments, combined with a feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle typing feel, then the KTT Mallo switch could be the ideal option for your typing needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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