KTT Glimp vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Glimp and KTT Mallo stand out as popular options that cater to different preferences. The Glimp is a linear switch that offers a medium-light typing experience with tactile feedback and a satisfyingly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Mallo is a tactile switch that provides subtle tactility and a medium-light typing feel with a neutral sound signature. While the Glimp excels in offering a responsive typing experience with noticeable tactile feedback, the Mallo shines in its finesse and subtlety, providing just enough feedback without being overpowering. Both switches offer a balanced typing experience, but the Glimp leans towards a more pronounced tactile feel while the Mallo leans towards a gentler touch. 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the KTT Glimp and the KTT Mallo feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This translates to a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. The similarities in the top housing material between the Glimp and Mallo suggest that users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics when using either switch.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of the KTT Glimp and KTT Mallo offer a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, thanks to the material's softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a different auditory experience compared to switches with polycarbonate bottom housings. Despite their differences in bottom housing material, both the Glimp and Mallo maintain the classic appeal of nylon in creating a unique typing sound that stands out from other switch options.
The division of housing materials in the Glimp and Mallo allows for a balanced typing experience where the qualities of each material can be felt and heard distinctly. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel enhances the tactile feedback during typing, while the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key. By incorporating both polycarbonate and nylon in their housing designs, the Glimp and Mallo offer users a comprehensive typing experience that combines the benefits of both materials for a unique and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it is evident that the Glimp is lighter in both aspects. The Glimp has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Mallo has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Despite not knowing the exact actuation force of the Mallo, it can be inferred that it is heavier than the Glimp based on the bottom out force. Both switches fall into the medium-light category, making them suitable for those who prefer a softer typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Glimp linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making their key press experience quite similar in terms of the distance the switch travels from top to bottom. Both switches offer a consistent travel distance, providing a familiar feel whether you choose the linear Glimp or the tactile Mallo. In terms of travel distance, these two switches are equally matched, ensuring that users can expect a consistent typing experience regardless of their choice between the two.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Glimp has an MSRP of $3.84 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glimp for $3.45.
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 KTT Glimp linear switch offers a clacky typing experience with a sharp and snappy sound profile, giving off a crisp and bright tone with each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo tactile switch provides a neutral sound signature that is not overpowering, making it suitable for a variety of typing environments. Additionally, the Mallo switch has a more subdued sound compared to most switches, offering a more gentle auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Glimp switch provides a creamy and mild typing experience that is smooth and buttery, allowing for a silky sensation and effortless keystrokes. Conversely, the Mallo switch offers a feathery and mild feel that is exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The stepped design of the Mallo switch adds a subtle tactile feel, providing feedback without being overly pronounced and maintaining a light typing experience.
Overall, while the KTT Glimp linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch have their own unique sound and feel characteristics, they both offer a medium-light typing experience that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort. Whether you prefer a clacky sound profile and creamy typing feel with the Glimp switch or a neutral sound signature and feathery typing feel with the Mallo switch, both options provide a satisfying and versatile choice for typists looking for a quality mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a slightly more pronounced tactile feedback and a clacky sound profile, the Glimp may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile feel and a neutral sound signature, the Mallo could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Consider what aspects are important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch, and choose accordingly to enhance your typing enjoyment.
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