Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the KTT Mallo stand out as excellent options for tactile enthusiasts. The Jupiter Browns offer a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight, perfect for those who appreciate a traditional typing experience with a touch of innovation. On the other hand, the Mallo switches provide a gentle tactility and medium-light typing feel, striking a balance between feedback and subtlety. Both switches boast high-precision molds and enhanced backlight effects, ensuring reliable performance and aesthetic appeal. 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
55g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the KTT Mallo switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the housing of these switches is beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows light to shine through effectively. Additionally, polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile. With both switches using polycarbonate top housings, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetic benefits if they choose either option.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Jupiter Brown and the Mallo switches utilize nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material for the bottom housing. By incorporating nylon bottom housings, both switches can offer a unique typing experience that prioritizes a fuller sound profile.
The distribution of housing materials in a switch can impact the overall typing experience for users. The qualities of the bottom housing material, such as the impact on bottom-out sound and feel, will be more noticeable when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing the key. With different housing materials used for the top and bottom of the switch, users can experience a balanced combination of sound characteristics that cater to both pressing down and releasing keys during typing sessions.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Gateron Jupiter Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo has an actuation force that is unknown, but a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This means that the Jupiter Brown requires a heavier initial force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Mallo, but both switches bottom out at a similar force. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Mallo for extended typing sessions, while others may appreciate the heavier actuation force of the Jupiter Brown for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, it is evident that their travel distances are the same, which means that users can expect similar results when typing on either switch. This means that whether you choose the Gateron Jupiter Brown or the KTT Mallo switch, you can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 Gateron Jupiter Brown switch offers a neutral sound profile, providing a moderate typing experience suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo switch produces a subdued sound, offering a more subtle and dampened typing experience that is versatile for different settings. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound, with the Jupiter Brown being more neutral and the Mallo being more subdued.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Jupiter Brown switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, with a refined finish that ensures smooth key travel and reduced friction. It also offers a stepped feel, providing a gentle two-stage keystroke sensation. In comparison, the KTT Mallo switch offers a feathery and mild typing experience, reducing finger fatigue and providing a light actuation force for comfortable extended typing sessions. Additionally, it also provides a stepped and subtle feel, offering a gentle resistance suitable for shared spaces.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Jupiter Brown and KTT Mallo switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Brown provides a more classic keystroke feel with a neutral sound profile, while the Mallo offers a gentler tactility with a subdued sound signature. Depending on personal preferences for typing experience and sound level, users can choose between the two switches to suit their individual needs. Ultimately, both switches provide reliable performance and aesthetic appeal, making them solid choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a more classic keystroke feel and enhanced backlight effects, the Gateron Jupiter Brown would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you lean towards a medium-light tactile switch with gentle tactility and a neutral sound signature, the KTT Mallo would suit your typing preferences perfectly. Consider your typing style, preferences for actuation force, and sound profile when making your decision between these two great tactile switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Brown and KTT Mallo comes down to personal preference and what feels best for your typing experience.
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