TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the KTT Mallo mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately boils down to the kind of tactile experience you prefer while typing. The TTC Gold Brown Pro is ideal for those who appreciate a subtle, nuanced feedback with its gentle tactile bump and subdued sound profile, allowing for an immersive typing experience without distracting noise. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo switches offer a delicate tactility that provides just the right amount of feedback without being overwhelming, coupled with a medium-light typing feel. Both switches are versatile and cater to typists who prefer a more understated tactile experience. 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
N/A
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the KTT Mallo feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing is especially useful if you plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. This material is known for being relatively stiffer, leading to a more resonant sound profile that is clear and crisp. This similarity in housing material between the two switches indicates that users can expect a comparable sound experience when typing on either switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Gold Brown Pro and the Mallo utilize nylon which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This classic switch housing material affects the typing experience by influencing the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Despite their differences in other housing materials, the similarity in using nylon for the bottom housing suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile on both switches.
While the top and bottom housings of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and KTT Mallo may differ, the split between the qualities of each housing material impacts the overall typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Understanding the qualities of each housing material in these switches can help users choose the one that aligns with their preferences for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch to the KTT Mallo tactile switch, we can see that the Gold Brown Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Mallo, which does not specify its actuation force. However, the Mallo has a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Gold Brown Pro does not provide this information. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gold Brown Pro due to its lower actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo may be favored by those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Overall, the decision between the two switches may come down to individual preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force to achieve the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8mm, which is slightly shorter than the KTT Mallo tactile switch with a travel distance of 4mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances but offer slightly different experiences. The Gold Brown Pro may provide a slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for quick reactions. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo's longer travel distance may offer a more tactile and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 Gold Brown Pro switch has a thocky and low-pitched profile, providing a deep and rich sound with a moderate level of actuation force. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo switch offers a neutral and subdued sound, making it suitable for various typing environments without being overpowering. Both switches have a neutral sound signature, ensuring they cater to a wide range of users and preferences. In terms of feel, the Gold Brown Pro switch is polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped, offering a refined and smooth typing experience with gentle resistance. Conversely, the Mallo switch is described as feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle, providing a light actuation force for reduced finger fatigue and a comfortable typing experience. Both switches strike a balance between tactile feedback and typing comfort, making them versatile options for a range of typing tasks.
Overall, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and KTT Mallo tactile switches offer subtle and nuanced tactile feedback with gentle bumps for a balanced typing experience. While the Gold Brown Pro leans towards a polished and refined feel with a subdued sound profile, the Mallo switch provides a feathery and light typing experience with a neutral sound signature. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience suitable for different typing environments and preferences. Whether you choose the Gold Brown Pro or the Mallo switch, you can expect a similar level of quality and performance in terms of tactile feedback and typing comfort.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, consider your preferences for tactile feedback and typing experience. If you prefer a subtle and nuanced tactile bump with a subdued sound profile that allows you to stay focused and immersed in your tasks, the Gold Brown Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle tactility that provides just the right amount of feedback without being overpowering, along with a medium-light typing feel and a versatile neutral sound signature, the Mallo switch could be a better fit for your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for tactile feedback, typing experience, and sound profile.
Mentioned in this article
