Kailh Box Jade vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Kailh Box Jade and KTT Mallo mechanical keyboard switches, you are faced with two distinct options that cater to different preferences. The Box Jade offers a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and pronounced tactility, perfect for those who enjoy a more invigorating and accentuated typing experience. On the other hand, the Mallo switches provide a subtle and gentle tactile feedback that strikes a balanced chord for typists looking for a more subdued and neutral typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities that make them appealing options for different users. 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Box
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the KTT Mallo, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the switch. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, the differentiation in their bottom housing materials will impact the overall typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Kailh Box Jade and the KTT Mallo feature nylon bottom housings. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing of these switches suggests a focus on creating a more tactile and satisfying typing experience, with an emphasis on sound quality and feel.
Overall, while both the Kailh Box Jade and the KTT Mallo share similar top and bottom housing materials, the subtle differences in their design may lead to variations in typing feel and sound. The split of housing qualities between the top and bottom of the switch means that the impact of each material will be felt differently during typing. The bottom housing will affect the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. These differences in housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience and can cater to different preferences in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the KTT Mallo tactile switch, whose actuation force is unknown. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box Jade requires 60 grams of pressure while the Mallo only requires 55 grams. This makes the Mallo the lighter option in terms of bottom out force. Both switches provide a medium to medium-light typing experience, with the Box Jade offering a slightly more substantial feel due to its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the KTT Mallo switch, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may prefer the Kailh Box Jade switch.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the KTT Mallo tactile switch. The Box Jade switch would offer a slightly quicker response time compared to the Mallo switch due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers looking for faster feedback may prefer the Box Jade switch. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the Mallo switch with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, so choosing between the two would depend on personal preferences for response time and key 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 Kailh Box Jade 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 Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is characterized by a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, providing sharp and crisp clicks when pressed. This distinct sound is ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo tactile switch offers a neutral and subdued sound, creating a more understated typing experience that is suitable for various environments. The Mallo's sound signature strikes a balance between providing feedback without being overpowering, making it a versatile choice for users seeking a more subtle sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Box Jade switch is known for its accented and invigorating tactile feedback, offering a medium-heavy typing experience with prominent tactile bumps that provide a satisfying typing sensation. In contrast, the KTT Mallo switch provides a feathery and mild typing feel, requiring little exertion and offering a gentle tactile sensation that is comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Mallo's stepped and subtle characteristics add a level of nuance to the typing experience, providing a unique feel that caters to those who prefer a more refined tactile feedback.
Overall, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch offer contrasting yet equally compelling qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Jade excels in providing a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile with accented and invigorating tactile feedback, ideal for users seeking a more pronounced typing experience. In comparison, the Mallo offers a neutral and subdued sound with a feathery and mild typing feel that is suitable for a variety of typing environments. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a more pronounced or a more subtle typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and solid tactility, the Kailh Box Jade switches would be the way to go. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make typing on them a satisfying experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle and gentle tactility with a medium-light typing feel, the KTT Mallo switches would be a great choice. Their neutral sound signature and balanced feedback make them suitable for various typing environments. Ultimately, the decision between the Box Jade and Mallo switches boils down to your preference for typing experience - whether you lean towards a more pronounced tactile and auditory feedback or a more subdued and understated feel.
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