TTC Brother vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch are two popular options worth considering. The Brother stands out for its lightweight nature, crunchy sound signature, and perfect tactile bump, making it a favorite among clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Mallo offers a gentle tactility and medium-light typing feel, striking a balanced chord for typists who prefer a more subtle feedback. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial 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
17.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Brother and the KTT Mallo are quite similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting capabilities. This similarity in housing material ensures that both the Brother and the Mallo provide a consistent sound experience for users who prefer a sharper and more defined typing sound.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Brother and the Mallo differ slightly. The Brother features a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Mallo also has a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper and rounder sound. While both switches share the same bottom housing material, the slight variations in design may result in subtle differences in the typing feel and sound between the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the TTC Brother and the KTT Mallo plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While they share the same polycarbonate top housing, the slight difference in bottom housing material may result in nuances in sound and feel. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper sound of nylon, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it is evident that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Brother switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Mallo switch does not provide information on its actuation force. On the other hand, the Mallo switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light, whereas the Brother switch does not specify its bottom out force. The actuation force of the Brother switch is known, whereas the bottom out force is not specified, while the Mallo switch provides information on the bottom out force but not the actuation force. Overall, the Mallo switch is lighter in terms of bottom out force compared to the Brother switch, while the actuation force comparison is not possible due to missing information on one of the switches. Ultimately, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Mallo switch, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may lean towards the Brother switch.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch have different travel distances, with the Brother having a shorter distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Mallo's 4 mm. The Brother's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Mallo's longer travel distance could provide a more satisfying and tactile typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch offers a crunchy and satisfying typing experience, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. In contrast, the KTT Mallo tactile switch provides a more neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of typing environments. While the Brother switch excels in delivering a clear and crisp clicking sound, the Mallo switch offers a more understated and gentle auditory experience.
Regarding feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is described as easy-to-press and stepped, providing a light and effortless typing experience with a distinct tactile bump. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo tactile switch offers a feathery and mild typing feel, with a subtle tactile feedback that is comfortable for extended typing sessions. Both switches feature a stepped design, providing a nuanced typing experience with a balanced level of key travel and actuation force.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch and KTT Mallo tactile switch each offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Brother switch excels in providing a crunchy and tactile typing experience, perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback. Alternatively, the Mallo switch offers a more subtle and gentle typing feel, suitable for users looking for a quieter and smoother keystroke. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preference for sound and feel, with both options providing satisfying results in their respective categories.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Brother clicky switch or the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a lightweight and breezy actuation with a satisfyingly crunchy sound, as well as a tactile bump that strikes a perfect balance, then the Brother clicky switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle tactility with a medium-light typing feel and a neutral sound signature, the Mallo tactile switch might be more to your liking. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so consider your typing style and preferences carefully before making a decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Brother clicky switch and the Mallo tactile switch is a personal one based on your desired typing feel and sound profile.
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