Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Mallo stand out as popular options with their unique characteristics. The V3 Crystal Pro, a linear switch, is praised for its fully polycarbonate construction that influences its bright and chirpy sound signature, offering a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo, a tactile switch, is known for its subtle tactility that provides just enough feedback without being overpowering, combined with a medium-light typing feel and neutral sound signature. If you prefer a bouncy and polished typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the right choice for you. However, if you value a feathery and subdued typing experience with a gentle tactile feedback, the KTT Mallo could be the perfect fit. 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
48g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Mallo both feature polycarbonate top housings, which produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that resonates well. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Mallo stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
While both the V3 Crystal Pro and the Mallo utilize polycarbonate top housings, the V3 Crystal Pro's bottom housing is also made of polycarbonate, providing consistency in sound profile throughout the switch. In contrast, the Mallo features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a different sound experience when compared to its polycarbonate top housing. The split housing materials in the Mallo allow for a unique typing experience, with the qualities of each material impacting the sound and feel of key presses differently.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Mallo comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing in both switches offers a clear, sharp sound, while the nylon bottom housing in the Mallo provides a deeper, fuller sound. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with consistent housing materials or a mix of sharpness and depth in your typing experience, both options offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it is evident that the V3 Crystal Pro has a higher actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Mallo's unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Mallo requires 55 grams, which is lighter than the V3 Crystal Pro's 60 grams. This means that the V3 Crystal Pro provides a bit more resistance during actuation but requires a heavier force to bottom out compared to the Mallo. If you prefer a lighter overall typing experience, the Mallo may be the better option, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance might prefer the V3 Crystal Pro. Both switches offer a medium feel overall, providing a good balance between typing comfort and feedback.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Mallo tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Mallo. A 0.2 mm may not seem like a significant difference, but it can affect the typing experience, especially for those who prefer a faster response time. Gamers, for example, might appreciate the shorter travel distance of the V3 Crystal Pro for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, the Mallo's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for individuals who prefer a deeper press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the typing experience one is looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro 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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch offer contrasting experiences. The Crystal Pro switch produces a bright and chirpy sound that sets it apart from others, providing a unique auditory experience. On the other hand, the Mallo switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound profile, making it a versatile option that suits various typing environments. Depending on your preference for the sound of the switch, the Crystal Pro excels in delivering a distinct acoustic experience, while the Mallo offers a more subtle and balanced sound signature.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the V3 Crystal Pro switch and the KTT Mallo switch also offer different tactile experiences. The Crystal Pro switch is described as bouncy and polished, providing a lively and smooth typing experience with a spring-like feedback sensation. In comparison, the Mallo switch offers a feathery and mild typing experience, with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and strain. Additionally, the Mallo switch features a stepped design, offering a more subtle tactile feedback compared to the more pronounced characteristics of other switches. Depending on your preference for typing feel, the Crystal Pro switch provides a lively and polished experience, while the Mallo switch offers a light and gentle typing feel with subtle tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal Pro switch stands out with its bright and chirpy sound, providing a distinct auditory experience, while also delivering a bouncy and polished typing feel. On the other hand, the Mallo switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound profile, making it a versatile option for various typing environments, along with a feathery and mild typing feel with subtle tactile feedback. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct experiences that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a unique sound signature and bouncy typing feel with the Crystal Pro, or a versatile and subtle sound profile with a feathery and mild typing experience with the Mallo.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a switch with a bright and chirpy sound signature, as well as a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a gentle tactility that provides just enough feedback without being overpowering, combined with a balanced medium-light typing feel and a neutral sound signature, then the Mallo would suit you well. Ultimately, the V3 Crystal Pro offers a bouncy and polished typing experience, while the Mallo provides a feathery and subtle typing feel. Choose based on your sound and feel preferences to enhance your typing experience.
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