Zuoce Bubblegum vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Bubblegum and the KTT Mallo offer distinct experiences for users. The Bubblegum, a linear switch from Gold Grain, stands out with its vibrant colorways and clacky typing feel, perfect for those who crave a tactile and bouncy experience. On the other hand, the Mallo from KTT is a tactile switch known for its subtle tactility and medium-light typing feel, providing a gentle feedback without being overpowering. While the Bubblegum appeals to enthusiasts looking for a more pronounced typing experience, the Mallo caters to typists who prefer a softer touch and a neutral sound signature. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM+SL
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Zuoce Bubblegum and KTT Mallo both feature different materials for their top and bottom housings, with the Bubblegum having a POM top housing and nylon bottom housing, while the Mallo has a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. The Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Mallo's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. However, both switches share the nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition.
In terms of sound profile, the Zuoce Bubblegum and KTT Mallo offer contrasting experiences due to their different housing materials. The Bubblegum's POM top housing creates a unique and pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum, while the Mallo's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. However, both switches share the nylon bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and contributes to a fuller sound profile for typing. This means that while the top housings provide distinct sound characteristics, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in determining the overall typing experience.
The impact of the housing materials on the typing experience is evident in both the Zuoce Bubblegum and KTT Mallo switches. The qualities of the bottom housing material are felt when pressing down on a key, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. While the POM and polycarbonate top housings of the Bubblegum and Mallo offer different sound profiles, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a similar depth and fullness to the typing experience in both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for sound characteristics.
Weight
In comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it is evident that the Bubblegum is lighter in terms of actuation force at 37 grams, compared to the Mallo which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Bubblegum requires 45 grams while the Mallo takes 55 grams, making the Mallo the heavier of the two. The lighter actuation force of the Bubblegum may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the heavier bottom out force of the Mallo may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it is clear that the Bubblegum has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Mallo's 4 mm. This means that the Bubblegum will provide a slightly quicker response time when pressed, making it a preferred option for those looking for a more immediate feedback. On the other hand, the Mallo provides a slightly deeper travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press feel. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, with the Mallo leaning towards the more traditional 4.0mm side while the Bubblegum offers a slightly shorter option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Bubblegum has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bubblegum for $2.30.
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 Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch offers a clacky typing experience, producing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo tactile switch provides a more subdued and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments without being overpowering. The choice between the two would depend on whether you prefer a louder, more pronounced sound like the Bubblegum or a gentler, more subtle sound like the Mallo. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Bubblegum switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that can add a lively feel to your typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Mallo tactile switch offers a feathery and mild typing feel, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Mallo switch also features a stepped tactile feedback, providing a more nuanced typing experience compared to the straightforward bounciness of the Bubblegum. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on whether you prefer a more energetic, bouncy feel or a lighter, more comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bubblegum is characterized by a clacky sound and a bouncy feel, ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Mallo switch provides a neutral and subdued sound along with a feathery and mild feel, making it a versatile option for those looking for a more subtle and comfortable typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two would depend on your personal typing style and preferences. However, if you prefer a more moderate sound and feel, you can expect similar results from both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a light and bouncy typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Bubblegum switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light feathery feel with a subtle and neutral sound signature, the Mallo switch could be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, the Bubblegum switch is perfect for those seeking a more vibrant and lively typing experience, while the Mallo switch offers a balanced and versatile option for various typing environments. Choose wisely based on what qualities matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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