TTC Gold Red vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch are two popular options to consider. The Gold Red is praised for its buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium resistance, while also providing a snappy sound profile that adds personality without being too loud. On the other hand, the Mallo offers a gentle tactility and medium-light typing feel, striking a balance between feedback and subtlety. Both switches have their unique characteristics and appeal to different preferences. 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
50g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Red and the KTT Mallo feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the nylon bottom housing of both switches differs in sound profile, with nylon creating a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer and sound-absorbing qualities.
While the top housings of the Gold Red and Mallo switches are the same, their nylon bottom housings provide a noticeable difference in sound when typing. The Gold Red's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound, while the Mallo's nylon bottom housing elicits a similar deep and full sound profile. The split between the two housing materials allows for a unique typing experience that combines the impact of the bottom housing with the sound of the top housing.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Gold Red and the KTT Mallo may come down to personal preference in sound profile. Both switches offer a sharp and crisp sound with their polycarbonate top housing, but the difference in the nylon bottom housing provides a distinct typing experience. Whether you prefer a duller and rounder sound with the Gold Red or a deeper and fuller sound with the Mallo, the housing materials of these switches play a significant role in the overall sound profile and feel of each keystroke.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the KTT Mallo tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. Additionally, the Gold Red has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Mallo has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gold Red switch, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. Conversely, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Mallo switch due to its slightly heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer their own unique typing experiences, with the Gold Red providing a lighter touch and the Mallo offering a medium-light typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the key travel 4 mm from the top to the bottom. With both switches having an equal travel distance, you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and overall typing experience. Whether you choose the Gold Red or the Mallo, you can be confident that the travel distance will be consistent and provide a satisfying typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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 Red linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile that adds a touch of personality without being too loud. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo tactile switch provides a more neutral and subdued sound, making it suitable for various typing environments where a subtle sound is preferred. Both switches have neutral sound signatures, ensuring they are versatile choices for different users and settings.
In terms of feel, the Gold Red switch provides a mild and silky typing experience with a subtle and polished finish, offering a smooth and refined feel that minimizes resistance. In comparison, the Mallo switch is described as feathery and mild, with a stepped tactile feel that gives a sense of two stages in the keystroke. The subtle resistance of the Mallo switch also makes it suitable for shared spaces where a gentler typing experience is desired.
Overall, the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Red switch leans towards a smoother typing experience with a snappy sound profile, while the Mallo switch provides a more subtle and gentle tactile feel with a neutral sound signature. Depending on personal preference and typing environment, users can choose between the buttery smoothness of the Gold Red or the finesse of the Mallo for an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Red linear switch or the KTT Mallo tactile switch, you should take into account your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a buttery smooth typing feel with a light-medium level of resistance and a snappy sound profile, the Gold Red switch would be the way to go. On the other hand, if you value a gentle tactility that provides just enough feedback without being overpowering, along with a medium-light typing feel and a neutral sound signature, the Mallo switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to whether you prioritize smoothness and moderate resistance (Gold Red) or gentle tactility and balanced typing experience (Mallo). Make your decision based on which qualities align best with your typing preferences and needs.
Mentioned in this article
