PH Studio Jacaranda vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Jacaranda stands out for its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, providing a fatigue-free typing experience with a clacky sound signature and an extended 22mm spring for a bouncy sensation. On the other hand, the Mallo showcases subtle tactility and finesse, striking a balanced chord with a medium-light typing feel and a neutral sound signature. While the Jacaranda offers a more pronounced feedback and unique typing experience, the Mallo provides a quieter and more versatile option for various typing environments. 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
39g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Mallo both feature polycarbonate top housing material, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material allows for a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for users who prioritize sound quality in their typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing is perfect for those who wish to incorporate RGB lighting into their setup. In terms of aesthetics and sound performance, both keyboards offer similar benefits with their polycarbonate top housing material.
However, the key point of differentiation between the two keyboards lies in their nylon bottom housing. The Jacaranda's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softness which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon bottom housing. On the other hand, the Mallo also features a nylon bottom housing, offering the same qualities of a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material choice for the bottom housing ensures that both keyboards provide a unique typing experience that prioritizes sound quality and comfort.
Ultimately, the split between the top and bottom housing materials of the switches impacts the overall sound and feel of typing on the keyboards. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys, while the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound when letting go of a key. This differentiation allows users to experience a variety of sound profiles and tactile feedback depending on which part of the switch is engaged during typing. Both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Mallo prioritize sound quality and offer a unique typing experience through their choice of housing materials.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams compared to the KTT Mallo tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Jacaranda is 45 grams, while the Mallo has a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Jacaranda, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Mallo would appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches provide options for users to choose based on their preferred typing experience.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is slightly shorter than the KTT Mallo tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Jacaranda offers a slightly shallower press compared to the Mallo. Gamers may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Jacaranda for quicker response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may find the longer travel distance of the Mallo to be more satisfying. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key depth and responsiveness in typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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 Jacaranda linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and percussive auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo tactile switch boasts a neutral and subdued sound signature, striking a balance between being noticeable without being overpowering. Depending on personal preference, the Jacaranda may appeal to those who enjoy a crisp and resonant sound, while the Mallo is more suited for those who prefer a softer and more understated typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Jacaranda is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance and enhances overall typing comfort. In contrast, the Mallo presents a feathery and mild typing feel, requiring little exertion from the fingers and reducing fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Mallo's subtle and stepped tactile feedback provides a gentle resistance without being too pronounced, making it a versatile choice for various typing needs.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch each offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jacaranda excels in providing a clacky sound and silky typing feel, while the Mallo is praised for its neutral sound and feathery tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, typing experience, and overall typing comfort. However, both switches offer quality performance, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing needs. If you value a light bottom-out force and a bouncy typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly higher bottom-out force that offers a subtle tactile feedback and a neutral sound profile, the Mallo switch could be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you prefer and which switch aligns better with your preferences.
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