Kailh Berry vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Berry linear switch to the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it becomes evident that they offer distinct typing experiences. The Berry switches provide a hefty and springy typing feel with a deep sound profile, appealing to those who enjoy a textured and low-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the Mallo switches showcase subtlety and finesse with a gentle tactility and medium-light typing feel, making them suitable for typists who prefer a more subdued and neutral sound signature. Each switch has its unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry and KTT Mallo both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when typing on these switches. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. The similarities in the top housing material between the two switches suggest that users can expect a comparable sound experience when typing on either the Berry or Mallo switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Berry features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. Conversely, the Mallo also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar sound experience as the Berry. This consistency in bottom housing material ensures that users will experience a consistent typing experience in terms of sound depth and tone between the two switches.
It is important to note that the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom housings of a switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. While both the Berry and Mallo switches feature the same top housing material (polycarbonate) for a similar sound profile, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing provides a distinct typing experience for each switch. Ultimately, the housing materials of these switches contribute to their unique sound and feel characteristics, offering users a choice between a crisper or richer typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch provide different typing experiences. The Berry linear switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the Mallo tactile switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light. The actuation force for both switches is not specified, but based on the bottom out force alone, the Mallo switch can be considered lighter than the Berry switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Mallo switch more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a more substantial typing feel might opt for the Berry switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm, while the KTT Mallo tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Kailh Berry has a shorter travel distance compared to the KTT Mallo. The 0.4mm may not seem like a significant difference, but it can impact the feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Kailh Berry with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the KTT Mallo with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their unique travel distances, catering to individual preferences.
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 Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25 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 Kailh Berry linear switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy characteristics, offering a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo tactile switch has a more neutral and subdued sound signature, providing a dampened and subtle sound when pressed. Depending on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard, users can choose between the more pronounced sound of the Berry or the more mellow sound of the Mallo.
Moving on to feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch is described as having a textured typing experience, with noticeable friction when pressed. In contrast, the KTT Mallo tactile switch offers a feathery and mild typing feel, requiring little exertion from the fingers and providing a comfortable experience for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Mallo switch is described as having a stepped tactile feel, providing a more subtle and gentle resistance compared to the Berry switch.
To conclude, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Berry switch provides a springy and chalk-like typing experience with a deep and bassy sound profile, while the Mallo switch offers a gentle tactility and medium-light typing feel with a more neutral and subdued sound signature. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Overall, both switches offer quality performance and versatility for various typing environments.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Kailh Berry linear switch or the KTT Mallo tactile switch, you should take into account your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a heavier switch with a springy feel and deep sound profile, the Berry switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with gentle tactility and a neutral sound signature, the Mallo switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on the typing feel and sound profile that aligns best with your preferences and needs.
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