TTC Flaming Purple vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch can be a matter of personal preference. The Flaming Purple offers a resonant and slightly bassy sound profile with an easy-to-press feathery feel, making it a popular choice for those who prioritize a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Mallo provides a gentle tactility and a medium-light typing feel, striking a balance between feedback and typing comfort. While the Flaming Purple leans towards a more engaging auditory experience, the Mallo offers a subtle and subdued typing experience that is versatile in various 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
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
47g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple and KTT Mallo have some similarities as they both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice of material produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Flaming Purple uses nylon while the Mallo also opts for nylon. Nylon bottom housings are known to create a deeper and fuller sound profile because of the softer nature of the material, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite both switches having polycarbonate top housings, they may offer slightly different sound profiles due to the unique design and construction of each switch. The split between the top and bottom housing materials means that the qualities each material brings will impact different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing will have a greater effect on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This distinction showcases how the choice of housing materials can have a significant impact on the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
In summary, while the Flaming Purple and Mallo share the use of polycarbonate for their top housings, the difference in their bottom housing materials may result in slightly varied sound profiles. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a clear and resonant sound, while the softer nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in each switch contributes to the overall typing experience, highlighting the importance of material selection in creating unique and desirable sound profiles for mechanical keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it is clear that the Flaming Purple is the lighter of the two. The Flaming Purple has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams, while the Mallo has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Flaming Purple may appeal to those who prefer to type for extended periods without experiencing fatigue, making it ideal for work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the slightly 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 preference for typing force.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it a slightly shorter option compared to the KTT Mallo tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Flaming Purple offers a slightly quicker key press due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Flaming Purple, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Mallo. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
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 TTC Flaming Purple linear switch offers a bassier and more resonant experience compared to the neutral and subdued sound profile of the KTT Mallo tactile switch. The Flaming Purple provides a poppy undertone that adds an engaging auditory flair to each keystroke, making it stand out for those who enjoy a deeper and richer sound profile. On the other hand, the Mallo offers a more subtle and balanced sound that neither dominates nor fades into the background, making it a versatile choice for various typing environments. Ultimately, the sound experience of these two switches caters to different preferences, with the Flaming Purple leaning towards a more impactful and engaging sound while the Mallo opts for a more understated and neutral approach.
In terms of feel, both the TTC Flaming Purple and the KTT Mallo switches are described as feathery, offering a light and effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. However, the Flaming Purple is also characterized as easy-to-press and silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing feel that enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Mallo is described as mild, stepped, and subtle, offering a more gentle typing experience with a slight tactile feedback that is noticeable without being overpowering. Overall, both switches prioritize comfort and ease of use, making them suitable for prolonged typing sessions for a variety of users.
In conclusion, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Flaming Purple excels in providing a bassier and more resonant sound with a feathery and silky typing feel, catering to those who enjoy a more engaging and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Mallo offers a neutral and subdued sound with a mild and subtle tactile feel, appealing to users who prefer a more understated and gentle typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience for enthusiasts and daily typists alike. Ultimately, choosing between the Flaming Purple and the Mallo will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of comfort and performance regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch or the KTT Mallo tactile switch, you must first assess your typing preferences. If you prioritize a light and feathery typing experience with a slightly bassier sound profile, then the Flaming Purple switch would be the optimal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtle tactile feedback and a versatile, neutral sound signature, the Mallo switch would better suit your needs. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches boils down to your personal typing style and preferences. Whether you opt for the swift and engaging Flaming Purple or the balanced and gentle Mallo, both switches offer unique features that cater to different typing styles.
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