Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the KTT Mallo mechanical keyboard switches, both tactile switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is praised for its budget-friendly yet high-quality construction, delivering a poppy and clacky sound profile along with a smooth tactile sensation. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo showcases a more subtle and refined design, with a gentle tactility and neutral sound signature that makes it suitable for various typing environments. While the Cream Blue Pro is characterized by being accented, bouncy, and polished, the Mallo is described as feathery, mild, and subdued. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your preference for a livelier, more pronounced typing experience or a quieter, more understated one. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the KTT Mallo both feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both switches are aesthetically pleasing for those who plan to use RGB lighting due to the translucency of polycarbonate. However, despite these similarities in the top housing material, the switches may differ in their overall sound and feel due to other factors such as the bottom housing material.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Mallo feature nylon bottoms. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches may contribute to a unique typing experience and overall sound feedback, showcasing the importance of both top and bottom housing materials in determining the final sound profile of a switch.
Overall, while both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the KTT Mallo share similar polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound profile, the differences in their nylon bottom housings may lead to varying typing experiences and overall sound feedback. Understanding how each housing material affects the sound and feel of a switch is essential for keyboard enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience. Whether opting for a switch with a polycarbonate top or a nylon bottom, enthusiasts can enjoy a range of sound profiles and tactile feedback to suit their preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Mallo, which has an unknown actuation force. Interestingly, both switches have the same bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a similar typing experience in that aspect. The V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a medium-light feel overall, making it ideal for longer typing sessions, while the Mallo's force remains unknown, making it harder to determine its suitability for prolonged use. For those who prefer a stronger tactile response, the V3 Cream Blue Pro may be the better choice due to its lighter actuation force, while the Mallo may appeal to those who enjoy a heavier typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing experience and force requirement.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm, while the KTT Mallo tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm. The V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Mallo. A shorter travel distance is often favored by gamers for faster response times, while longer travel distances provide a more substantial key press feel. Both switches fall within the typical range of travel distances for mechanical switches, offering a balance between responsiveness and key press depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
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 Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile that is sure to grab attention. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo boasts a more subtle and neutral sound signature that ensures it won't overpower your typing environment. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences that cater to different preferences, with the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro being more lively and the KTT Mallo being more understated.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is known for its accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished qualities, offering a tactile sensation that strikes a balance between responsiveness and smoothness. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo is described as feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle, providing a gentle typing experience that is comfortable for extended use. Both switches offer a tactile feedback that enhances the typing experience, with the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro leaning towards a more pronounced tactile feel and the KTT Mallo aiming for a softer touch.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and KTT Mallo switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro excels in providing a lively sound profile and a balanced tactile sensation, making it a great choice for users who enjoy a more engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo focuses on subtlety and finesse, offering a neutral sound signature and a gentle tactile feedback that is well-suited for various typing environments. Depending on your personal preferences, you can achieve satisfying results with either switch, as they both offer unique qualities tailored to different typing styles.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch that provides a lively, audible feedback with a creamy, tactile sensation, then the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactility that's balanced and versatile for various typing environments, then the KTT Mallo would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a more pronounced tactile experience with a distinct sound profile (V3 Cream Blue Pro) or a more gentle and neutral typing feel (Mallo). Regardless of your choice, both switches offer a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams for a comfortable typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
