HC Studio Crabapple vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the HC Studio Crabapple, a linear switch, and the KTT Mallo, a tactile switch. The Crabapple, crafted entirely from POM, offers an effortlessly frictionless typing experience with a distinct dry smoothness and subtle texture with each downstroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Mallo by KTT is praised for its subtle and gentle tactility that provides just enough feedback without being overpowering. With a medium-light typing feel and a neutral sound signature, the Mallo offers a versatile choice for different typing environments. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Mallo differ significantly in terms of the materials used and the resulting sound profiles. The Crabapple features POM top and bottom housings, which create a unique and deep sound that is more muted. On the other hand, the Mallo utilizes polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the Crabapple's POM bottom housing contributes to the deep and muted sound, while the Mallo's nylon bottom housing produces a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer nature.
In terms of aesthetics, the housing materials of the Crabapple and the Mallo also differ. The Crabapple's POM top housing does not allow for RGB lighting due to its opaque nature, while the Mallo's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects. This difference in materials affects the overall look and feel of the switches, catering to different preferences in terms of lighting customization and visual appeal.
Despite their differences, both the Crabapple and the Mallo housing materials play a crucial role in determining the sound profile of the switches. While the Crabapple's POM housings create a deeper and more muted sound, the Mallo's polycarbonate and nylon housings produce sharper and fuller sound profiles, respectively. Ultimately, the choice between these housing materials comes down to personal preference, with each offering a unique typing experience based on the resulting sound and feel of the switches.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the KTT Mallo tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. Both switches, however, have a bottom out force with the Crabapple being lighter at 45 grams and the Mallo being slightly heavier at 55 grams. When considering weight, some users may prefer the Crabapple for its lighter actuation force, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or marathon gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Mallo offers a slightly more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, which may be preferred by users looking for a stronger push feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the KTT Mallo tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Crabapple offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for fast actions. On the other hand, the Mallo provides a bit more depth and feedback with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more tactile typing experience. Both switches have their advantages based on individual preferences, with the shorter travel distance of the Crabapple offering speed and the longer travel distance of the Mallo providing a more traditional typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HC Studio Crabapple has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crabapple for $4.70.
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, both the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch offer a subdued sound profile, with the Crabapple being described as mild and understated. The Mallo, on the other hand, is noted for its neutral sound signature that is neither dominant nor intrusive. This makes both switches suitable for shared environments or for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound produced by the switches may also vary depending on the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the typing feel, the Crabapple switch stands out for its frictionless experience, providing a smooth and effortless typing journey. Its mild and textured characteristics offer a comfortable middle-ground for most users. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo switch offers a feathery and mild typing feel, with a subtle tactility that provides just enough feedback without being overwhelming. This makes both switches suitable for extended typing sessions, whether for work, gaming, or everyday use.
In conclusion, while the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both offer a pleasant and approachable typing experience. Whether you prefer a more frictionless journey with a subtle dry smoothness or a feathery, gentle tactility, both switches strike a balance in providing a comfortable and versatile option for typists. Ultimately, your choice between the two would depend on personal preferences in sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch or the KTT Mallo tactile switch, you should take into account your preference for a lighter bottom out force. If you prefer a light typing experience with a frictionless and mild feel, along with a subdued sound signature, then the Crabapple switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a slightly firmer bottom out force with a feathery and subtle tactile feedback, combined with a neutral and subdued sound profile, then the Mallo switch would be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific environment in which you plan to use the switches.
Mentioned in this article
