Kailh Box Navy vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Navy and KTT Mallo stand out as prime examples of clicky and tactile switches, respectively. The Box Navy is ideal for those who crave a robust typing experience with a satisfying click and hefty feel reminiscent of classic buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the Mallo offers a more subtle and refined tactile feedback, striking a perfect balance between feedback and typing comfort. While the Box Navy is characterized by its sharp, resonant, and invigorating feel, the Mallo is known for its feathery, mild, and neutral tactility. 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
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
90g
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
The Kailh Box Navy and KTT Mallo both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, despite their similarities in top housing material, the two switches may still differ in terms of design and overall performance.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the Box Navy and Mallo use nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that utilize nylon bottom housings. While the use of nylon in the bottom housing provides a unique typing experience, the overall feel and sound of the switches may still vary depending on other factors such as spring weight and keycap material.
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and KTT Mallo, it is important to consider how the qualities of each material affect the overall typing experience. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound profile, the nylon bottom housings provide a deeper and fuller sound. The division of housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch contributes to different aspects of key feel and sound, making each switch unique in its own right. Overall, understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance can help users make informed decisions when selecting switches for their keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it is clear that there is a significant difference in weight between the two. The Box Navy has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 90 grams, providing a substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Mallo has an unknown actuation force and a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a more medium-light option. The Box Navy offers a heavier typing experience, which may be preferred by some for its solid and precise feel, while the Mallo provides a lighter touch that is easier on the fingers for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing pressure and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the KTT Mallo tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Box Navy provides a slightly quicker key press due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize fast response times. On the other hand, the Mallo switch offers a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for either a quicker, shallower key press or a more deliberate, deeper key press.
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 Navy 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 Navy switch is renowned for its resonant and crunchy sound profile, creating an immersive auditory experience reminiscent of vintage mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound, making it a versatile option for different typing environments without overpowering or fading into the background. The choice between the two would depend on the user's preference for a bold and sharp sound with the Box Navy or a more subtle and gentle sound with the Mallo.
When it comes to feel, the Box Navy switch is characterized by its sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile feedback, providing a strong and distinct tactile bump with each keypress. In contrast, the KTT Mallo switch offers a feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle typing experience, catering to those who prefer a lighter actuation force and gentler tactile feedback. Depending on personal preference, users can opt for the intense and crisp feedback of the Box Navy or the comfortable and approachable typing feel of the Mallo.
Considering the information provided, it is evident that the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch offer contrasting subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Navy excels in providing a resonant and crunchy sound profile coupled with a sharp and stiff tactile feedback, ideal for users seeking a bold and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Mallo switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound with a feathery and mild typing feel, appealing to those looking for a versatile and comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who enjoys a heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile reminiscent of vintage keyboards, the Kailh Box Navy switches would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light tactile switch that offers subtle feedback and a neutral sound profile, the KTT Mallo switches would be a more suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and overall typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences, so it's important to consider your personal typing style and environment when making a decision between the two.
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