Gateron Ink Yellow vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Yellow and the KTT Mallo stand out as popular options with distinct characteristics. The Ink Yellow is a linear switch known for its shorter travel distance, offering a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. Its smoothness and clackiness make it a pleasant option for those looking for a balance between comfort and responsiveness. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo is a tactile switch that boasts subtlety and finesse in its design. With a gentle tactility and medium-light typing feel, it provides just enough feedback without being overpowering. The neutral sound signature of the Mallo makes it a versatile choice for different typing environments. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and KTT Mallo switches both bring unique characteristics to the table. While the Ink Yellow features a proprietary INK blend top housing that creates a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound profile, the Mallo utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switch. In contrast, the Nylon bottom housing of the Mallo switch offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the pointed and relatively high-pitched sound of the Ink Yellow's bottom housing.
However, if both switches were to have the same material for their top and bottom housings, they would likely result in similar sound profiles. For example, if the Gateron Ink Yellow were to use polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, it would likely produce a sound that is sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper overall. On the other hand, if the KTT Mallo switched to using the INK blend material for both its top and bottom housings, the sound profile would lean more towards a thin and higher-pitched sound. The choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall feel and sound of a switch, making it an important factor to consider when customizing a keyboard.
In terms of feel and performance, the housing material of a switch plays a crucial role in determining key characteristics such as sound profile and tactile feedback. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate used in the Mallo's top housing contributes to a more clear and resonant sound profile, while the softer nylon material in the Mallo's bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the INK blend material in the Gateron Ink Yellow's top and bottom housings creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. Ultimately, the choice between these housing materials will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel when typing on a mechanical keyboard.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the KTT Mallo tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. The bottom out force of the Ink Yellow is also heavier at 67 grams, while the Mallo has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. The difference in weight between the two switches means that the Ink Yellow switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Mallo switch offers a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Overall, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Ink Yellow being on the heavier side and the Mallo being on the lighter side.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the KTT Mallo tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Ink Yellow may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers, while the longer travel distance of the Mallo may provide a more satisfying depth to the keystroke for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired. Both switches offer different benefits, with the Ink Yellow providing a shorter travel distance for quicker response and the Mallo offering a longer travel distance for a more deliberate keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Yellow 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 Yellow for $7.35.
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, both the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch share a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various environments. However, the Ink Yellow is described as having a clacky sound, producing a sharp and percussive tone, while the Mallo offers a more subdued sound, dampened and subtle in nature. The actual sound produced by both switches can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so it's important to consider these variables when making a decision.
In terms of feel, the Ink Yellow provides a mild and polished typing experience, with smooth key travel and a refined finish. On the other hand, the Mallo offers a feathery and mild typing feel, requiring little exertion and reducing finger fatigue. Additionally, the Mallo switch is described as stepped, providing a tactile sensation with two stages, unlike the Ink Yellow which offers a more uniform linear feel. Both switches aim to strike a balance between comfort and tactility, catering to typists who prefer different levels of feedback during typing.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch offer unique qualities for keyboard enthusiasts to consider. While the Ink Yellow provides a clacky sound and polished feel, the Mallo offers a more subdued sound and feathery typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. For those seeking a moderate and versatile option, either of these switches would deliver a satisfying typing experience with their neutral characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a shorter travel distance and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Ink Yellow might be the right choice for you. It offers a smooth and clacky typing experience that falls between a laptop and standard mechanical keyboard. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a gentle tactility, the Mallo could be more suitable. It provides a balanced and subtle typing experience with a neutral sound signature, making it versatile for various typing environments. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you prefer.
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