Gateron Jupiter Red vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch stand out as popular options. The Jupiter Reds offer a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation, perfect for those seeking a consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Mallo switches from KTT provide a gentle tactility for subtle feedback, combined with a medium-light typing feel that strikes a balanced chord for typists. While the Jupiter Reds are categorized as polished, creamy, and silky, the Mallo switches are characterized as feathery, mild, and subtle. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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
The Gateron Jupiter Red and KTT Mallo both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucent quality of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, despite their similarities in top housing material, the Gateron Jupiter Red and KTT Mallo do have differences in their bottom housings.
The Jupiter Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer compared to polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. On the other hand, the Mallo also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, offering similar qualities in sound profile compared to the Jupiter Red. This means that despite their differences in top housing material, both switches will provide a similar typing experience due to their shared nylon bottom housing.
In general, the bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. With the Jupiter Red and Mallo both featuring polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings, users can expect a blend of crisper and sharper sound profiles with a deeper and fuller sound experience. The choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of aesthetics and specific typing feel, as the differences in housing materials may result in subtle variations in overall sound and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it is clear that the Jupiter Red requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Mallo's unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Mallo has a slightly lighter force of 55 grams, while the Jupiter Red has a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches fall within the medium force range, making them suitable for users who prefer a balance between light and heavy switches. For those who enjoy a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Jupiter Red may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Mallo despite its slightly lighter bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them identical in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, the distance the key travels from the top to the bottom will be the same. This similarity ensures that users will experience a consistent feel and feedback when typing on keyboards using these switches. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the KTT Mallo switches, providing a similar typing experience for users of both switches.
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 Red 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
In terms of sound, both the Gateron Jupiter Red and the KTT Mallo switches are classified as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for various typing environments. The Mallo switch additionally offers a subdued sound signature, making it a more versatile option for shared spaces where a quieter typing experience is preferred. However, both switches provide a moderate sound level overall, ensuring that they do not dominate the auditory landscape.
When it comes to feel, the Jupiter Red switch is praised for its polished and creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and refined key press that glides effortlessly during each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo switch provides a feathery and subtle typing feel, with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Mallo switch offers a stepped tactile sensation, providing a mild two-stage keystroke experience for those who prefer a more nuanced feedback.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch both have their unique strengths in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Red offers a creamy and polished typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Mallo switch provides a feathery and subtle feel with a subdued sound signature, making it a versatile choice for those who value a quieter typing environment. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium typing experience that caters to a wide range of users, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and consistent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle tactility with a medium-light typing feel that strikes a balanced chord, the KTT Mallo tactile switch would be more suited to your preference. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various typing environments. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a seamless keystroke experience or a subtle tactile feedback in your mechanical keyboard switches. Regardless of your choice, both the Jupiter Red and Mallo switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
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