Gateron Beer vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Beer and KTT Mallo switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Beer switch is characterized by its translucent green design, lightweight feel, stepped tactility, and clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo switch is praised for its subtle tactility, medium-light typing feel, and neutral sound signature. While the Beer switch is best suited for those who prefer a more tactile and easy-to-press typing experience, the Mallo switch is ideal for typists who prefer a feathery and subdued typing feel. 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
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Beer and KTT Mallo both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This material is ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows the light to shine through beautifully. However, the Mallo differs with its nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and KTT Mallo, it is evident that the polycarbonate top housings are similar in their ability to create a clear and resonant sound profile. This is particularly beneficial for switches designed to be visually appealing with RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper sound profile, while the Mallo's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast highlights how the choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
In terms of sound and feel, the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and KTT Mallo play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housings ensures that each material's qualities are felt distinctly when using the switch. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, with the nylon bottom housing of the Mallo providing a softer and more absorbing experience compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Beer. On the other hand, the impact of the top housing is most noticeable when releasing a key, highlighting the importance of both housing materials in creating a well-rounded typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it is evident that there are some differences between the two. The Beer has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, while the Mallo's actuation force is unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the Beer requires 50 grams, whereas the Mallo needs 55 grams. The Beer can be considered lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Mallo, which falls somewhere in the medium-light range. Individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Beer, as it allows for extended typing without much strain. On the other hand, those who enjoy a slightly more substantial push feel may find the Mallo to be more suited to their preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the KTT Mallo tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Beer switch offers a quicker response time, making it ideal for gamers who value speed and efficiency in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Mallo switch provides a deeper and more substantial feel when typing, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback. Despite their differences in travel distance, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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 Beer switch offers a distinctive clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and resonant, evoking a feeling of liveliness and energy with each key press. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo switch provides a neutral and subdued sound profile that strikes a balance between being noticeable and not overpowering, making it a versatile choice for various typing environments. While the Beer switch's sound is more pronounced and lively, the Mallo switch's sound is more subtle and neutral, catering to different preferences and settings.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Beer switch is known for its easy-to-press nature and stepped tactility, offering a light typing experience that enhances typing efficiency and reduces finger fatigue during extended use. The KTT Mallo switch, on the other hand, provides a feathery and mild typing experience that is gentle on the fingers and comfortable for prolonged typing sessions. Both switches feature a stepped tactile feel, providing a unique typing sensation that incorporates distinct levels of feedback throughout the keystroke. While the Beer switch offers a more straightforward and effortless keystroke, the Mallo switch delivers a delicate and approachable typing experience that appeals to a wider range of users.
In conclusion, the Gateron Beer and KTT Mallo switches offer contrasting yet exceptional qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gateron Beer switch excels in providing a clacky and easy-to-press typing experience, perfect for those seeking a lively and responsive tactile feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo switch stands out with its neutral and gentle typing feel, catering to users who prefer a more subdued and versatile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the specific typing environment, as both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, consider your preference for typing feel and sound. If you appreciate a light and easy-to-press switch with a distinctive clacky sound, the Gateron Beer may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a feathery typing experience with a subtle and neutral sound profile, the KTT Mallo could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure the best mechanical keyboard switch experience for you.
Mentioned in this article
