TTC Ice vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the TTC Ice and the KTT Mallo, each offering unique characteristics tailored to different typing preferences. The TTC Ice, known for its stunning crystal-clear design, is a linear switch that delivers a smooth and responsive typing experience. It features a satisfying bottom-out sound, making it an excellent choice for gamers and everyday typists looking for a premium feel. In contrast, the KTT Mallo embodies subtlety and finesse as a tactile switch, providing a gentle tactile bump for feedback without being overly pronounced. With a medium-light typing feel and a neutral sound signature, the Mallo excels in versatile environments, making it ideal for those who appreciate a refined typing experience. While the Ice focuses on smoothness and auditory satisfaction, the Mallo prioritizes a balanced tactile sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Ice and KTT Mallo switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which provides them with a noticeably sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate allows for increased resonance, resulting in a clear audio experience. Additionally, the translucent quality of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switches, especially when displaying RGB lighting. Users can expect similar lighting effects and sound characteristics from both switch types due to this shared material in the top housing. This alignment in material choice positions both switches as excellent options for users who prioritize auditory clarity and visual vibrancy in their keyboard setups.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the TTC Ice and KTT Mallo switches differ significantly, with the Ice opting for polycarbonate while the Mallo employs nylon. The use of polycarbonate in the bottom housing of the Ice contributes to a sound profile reminiscent of its top counterpart, maintaining the crisp tone that polycarbonate offers. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Mallo introduces a deeper, fuller sound due to its softer composition, which tends to absorb more sound. Consequently, the Mallo produces a rounder and more subdued auditory experience. This distinct difference in bottom housing materials ensures that although both switches exhibit similar properties in their upper sections, the overall sound profile will diverge at the base, leading to a contrasting typing feel and auditory feedback.
When considering the performance of these switches, the different bottom housing materials profoundly influence the experience. The TTC Ice will deliver a more cohesive and sharp sound profile throughout the keystroke, thanks to both sections being crafted from the relatively stiff polycarbonate. In contrast, the KTT Mallo will provide a more complex auditory experience, where the nylon bottom housing moderates the sharper sounds produced by the polycarbonate top. This combination of different materials means that while users can achieve brightness from the KTT Mallo’s top section, the bottom will temper that with a deeper tone. Therefore, your typing experience and sound feedback will vary distinctly between these two switches, further emphasizing the impact of individual housing materials in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The TTC Ice linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The TTC Ice features a medium actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a balanced typing experience that caters to those who enjoy a moderate resistance while typing. In contrast, the KTT Mallo has a reported bottom out force of 55 grams, but its actuation force is unspecified. The Mallo's lower bottom out force indicates it might be lighter in overall feel, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or for users who prefer less forceful key presses. Overall, the TTC Ice is the heavier of the two due to its actuation force, whereas the Mallo's characteristics lean towards a lighter typing experience, albeit with less clarity on its actuation force. For users prioritizing a significant feedback while typing, the TTC Ice would be the preferred choice, while the KTT Mallo may appeal to those who favor a gentler touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Ice linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, the Ice has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Mallo measures at 4 mm. This makes the Ice the shorter option, appealing to users who favor quicker response times, especially popular among gamers. Conversely, the Mallo, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial tactile feedback that some users prefer for a deeper typing experience. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preference—if you value responsiveness, the TTC Ice might be your ideal choice, whereas if you enjoy a more pronounced depth in your keystrokes, the KTT Mallo is likely to suit you better.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Ice has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice for $5.99.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the TTC Ice linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it becomes apparent that they cater to different auditory preferences. The Ice switch is characterized by its satisfying bottom-out sound, which contributes to a premium typing experience. This clear and noticeable sound can be rewarding for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Mallo switch features a neutral sound signature that is described as subdued. This means that it produces a moderate sound profile that is neither too loud nor too quiet, making it ideal for various environments, whether at home or in an office setting. The quieter nature of the Mallo allows for less disruption in shared spaces, offering a balanced auditory experience.
In terms of tactile feel, the Ice switch provides a smooth and responsive typing experience, typical of linear switches that favor an uninterrupted keypress. This seamless action can be particularly attractive to gamers seeking quick and fluid keystrokes without any tactile resistance. On the other hand, the Mallo switch offers a gentle tactility, providing feedback that is just enough to be noticeable without being overpowering. The mild and feathery characteristics of the Mallo allow for comfortable typing over extended periods, as the lighter actuation force minimizes finger fatigue. This blend of softness and subtle resistance makes the Mallo a versatile choice for typists who appreciate feedback in a more understated manner.
In summary, the TTC Ice linear switch is ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced sound and a smoother feel, suitable for both gaming and daily typing tasks, while the KTT Mallo tactile switch excels in providing gentle feedback and a neutral sound profile, making it well-suited for a variety of environments. Both switches offer unique qualities, allowing you to choose based on personal preference for sound and feel. If you favor the auditory experience of the Ice but the tactile comfort of the Mallo, experimenting with similar linear or tactile switches could yield a typing experience that satisfies both needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Ice linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and the environments in which you’ll be using your keyboard. If you favor a smooth, linear feel with a satisfying bottom-out sound that enhances both gaming and everyday typing experiences, the Ice switch, with its 60-gram actuation force and crystal-clear design, may be the ideal choice for you. Its responsive characteristics ensure that every keystroke feels quick and enjoyable, making it particularly appealing for fast-paced gaming. On the other hand, if you prioritize a gentle tactile feedback without overwhelming your senses, the Mallo switch, boasting a medium-light force of 55 grams, is your best bet. The subtlety of its tactility combined with its feathery feel makes it perfect for long typing sessions whether at work or for leisure, while its neutral sound signature ensures you won’t disturb others around you. Therefore, consider your personal preferences for tactile feedback, sound profile, and intended usage to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard journey.
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