Outemu Crystal vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Outemu Crystal, a linear switch, and the KTT Mallo, a tactile switch. The Crystal switch offers a unique linear typing experience with a medium-light weight and an elastic feel. It provides a neutral sound profile while typing, known for its chirpy and high-pitched characteristics. On the other hand, the Mallo switch from KTT is designed with subtlety and finesse in mind. It offers a gentle tactility that provides just enough feedback without being overwhelming, alongside a medium-light typing feel. Its sound signature is neutral and versatile, making it suitable for various typing environments. However, let's dive into a deeper comparison to help you decide on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Crystal and the KTT Mallo both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to the stiffness of the plastic. This results in a clear and resonant sound overall. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. On the other hand, the Mallo's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound to create a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in materials between the top and bottom housings of the two switches gives users different experiences when typing, with the top housing affecting the sound when releasing a key and the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel.
While both the Outemu Crystal and the KTT Mallo utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the Mallo sets itself apart with its nylon bottom housing. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of the Mallo provides a different typing experience compared to the Crystal. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound, which can be attributed to nylon's softer nature and its ability to absorb more sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Crystal contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. By combining different materials in the top and bottom housing, both switches offer unique sound profiles and tactile feedback that cater to different preferences.
The choice of housing materials plays a significant role in the overall sound profile and typing experience of a mechanical keyboard switch. The Outemu Crystal and KTT Mallo demonstrate how different materials like polycarbonate and nylon can impact the sound and feel of typing. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housing, the Mallo's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing. This difference in housing materials allows users to choose a switch that aligns with their preferences in terms of sound and tactile feedback. Ultimately, whether you prefer the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper sound of nylon, both switches offer unique qualities that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, we can see that the Crystal has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Mallo's unknown actuation force. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 55 grams, making them medium-light in that aspect. The Crystal provides a consistent and smooth typing experience with its light actuation force, perfect for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Mallo offers a tactile bump for a more pronounced typing feel, but without any information on its actuation force, it may be more challenging to determine its overall typing experience. Overall, those looking for a lighter keystroke may lean towards the Crystal, while those seeking a tactile feedback may find the Mallo more appealing.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users will experience a similar amount of key travel when pressing down on either switch. This is beneficial for users who prefer consistency in their typing experience. The 4 mm travel distance on both switches ensures that users will receive a satisfying tactile feedback without having to adjust to different key travel distances between the two switches. Overall, the travel distance of both switches contributes to a smooth and consistent typing experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 per 10 switches.
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 Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a chirpy and high-pitched profile, giving a unique acoustic experience that stands out from other switches. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo tactile switch provides a neutral and subdued sound, offering a more versatile and subtle typing experience that is suitable for various environments. While the Crystal switch may have a more distinctive sound profile, the Mallo switch provides a quieter and more understated option for those seeking a more mellow typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Crystal switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the KTT Mallo switch offers a feathery and mild feel, requiring little exertion from the fingers and reducing strain for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Mallo switch is also described as stepped and subtle, providing a gentle resistance and a light typing feel that is suitable for shared spaces.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal switch provides a more pronounced and high-pitched sound with a polished typing experience, while the Mallo switch offers a more subdued and neutral sound with a feathery and mild feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound profile and typing experience, but rest assured that both options provide quality and versatility in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Crystal linear switch or the KTT Mallo tactile switch, think about what typing experience you're looking for. If you prefer a smooth and refined typing experience with a unique linear feel and medium-light weight, as well as a chirpy or high-pitched sound profile, the Crystal switch may be the one for you. On the other hand, if you value a gentle tactility that provides just the right amount of feedback, combined with a medium-light typing feel and a neutral or subdued sound signature, then the Mallo switch could be a better fit. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a polished, elevated typing experience or a subtle, versatile one. Consider these factors when making your decision on which switch to go for.
Mentioned in this article
