Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Mallo represent two distinct options, each with its own unique features and benefits. The Ink Black V2 is a linear switch known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, offering a satisfying typing experience categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Bassy', 'Chirpy', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo is a tactile switch that provides a gentle tactility without being overpowering, combined with a medium-light typing feel and a neutral sound signature. Categorized as 'Feathery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Stepped', 'Subdued', and 'Subtle', the Mallo strikes a balanced chord for typists. Each switch has its own merits, making it important to consider your personal preferences and typing habits when choosing between them. 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
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Mallo, we see some distinct differences. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound profile, while the Mallo's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Mallo's top housing is also visually striking, as it allows for RGB lighting to shine through. On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Ink Black V2, also made of the INK blend, contributes to a clacky sound profile, while the Mallo's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience. The Gateron Ink Black V2's top housing, with its proprietary INK blend, provides a pointed and high-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. In contrast, the KTT Mallo's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper and crisper sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Mallo offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. Overall, while the top and bottom housing materials may vary between the two switches, both contribute to a distinct typing feel and sound output.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note how each component influences different aspects of sound and feel. The bottom housing of a switch, such as the Gateron Ink Black V2's INK blend or the KTT Mallo's nylon, plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. In contrast, the top housing material, whether it be the INK blend of the Ink Black V2 or the polycarbonate of the Mallo, contributes more to the sound when a key is released. By understanding how these materials interact with key presses, users can choose a switch that aligns with their preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it is clear that the two switches offer different weight options for users. The Ink Black V2 has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Mallo offers a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, although the actuation force is not specified. This difference in weight makes the Ink Black V2 better suited for users who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, while the Mallo would be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. In situations where both switches have the same forces, users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distance, it can be noted that both switches offer the same experience in terms of keypress feel and feedback. Therefore, users can expect similar results when using either switch in terms of the distance the key travels from the top to the bottom. This means that whether using the Gateron Ink Black V2 or the KTT Mallo, the keypress experience will be consistent and reliable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is best suited for those who prefer a low-pitched, bassy, and slightly chirpy sound profile. These characteristics provide a satisfying auditory feedback during typing sessions, making each keystroke feel impactful and substantial. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo tactile switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound signature. The Mallo switch produces a dampened sound that is not completely silent but maintains a subtle and gentle acoustic profile. This makes the Mallo switch a versatile option for individuals who prefer a quieter typing experience without sacrificing tactile feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is known for its mild and polished typing experience. The smooth downstroke and refined finish of the switch result in a comfortable and approachable typing feel for users of all levels. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo tactile switch offers a feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle typing experience. The light actuation force and gentle resistance of the Mallo switch make it comfortable for extended typing sessions, whether it be for gaming, work, or school. The stepped tactile feel of the switch provides a more nuanced feedback that is not overpowering but still noticeable.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Black V2 provides a rich and impactful sound profile with a smooth and polished typing experience, while the Mallo switch delivers a subtle and gentle sound signature with a feathery and stepped tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, both switches offer quality options that cater to different typing needs, ensuring that users will receive satisfying results regardless of their selection.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy linear switch with a smooth downstroke and rich clack sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light tactile switch with gentle tactility, a balanced typing feel, and a neutral sound signature, the KTT Mallo switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing style, sound preference, and desired level of tactility. Consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel when making your choice between the Ink Black V2 and the Mallo switches.
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