KTT Kang White vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Kang White linear switch to the KTT Mallo tactile switch, we find two distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Kang White is praised for its poppy linear feel and dazzling typing sound, thanks to its self-lubricating material. Categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral', this switch offers a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Mallo switch is celebrated for its subtlety and finesse, providing gentle tactility and medium-light typing feel. With a variety of characteristics such as 'Feathery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Stepped', 'Subdued', and 'Subtle', the Mallo strikes a balanced chord for typists. While the Kang White excels in smoothness and linear feel, the Mallo stands out for its gentle tactility and versatile sound signature. 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
58g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the KTT Kang White and the KTT Mallo lies in their bottom housings. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper and crisper sound profile, the Kang White uses a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The nylon material is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Kang White's polycarbonate bottom housing. This contrast in bottom housing materials will impact the overall sound and feel of the switches when typing.
However, when it comes to the top housing of both switches, they share the same polycarbonate material. This allows for a consistent sharp, higher-pitched, and clear sound profile across both the Kang White and the Mallo. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also makes the switches ideal for RGB lighting due to their translucency. In terms of aesthetics and sound characteristics, the similarities in the top housing material of these switches will result in comparable results in terms of sound profile and visual appeal.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Kang White and the KTT Mallo will come down to personal preference in sound profile and feel. The Kang White's combination of a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing offers a mix of sharpness and depth in sound. On the other hand, the Mallo's consistent use of polycarbonate throughout its housing provides a more uniform sound experience. Whether you prefer a crisper sound profile with the Kang White or a more consistent sound with the Mallo, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Kang White linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it is clear that the Mallo is the lighter of the two. The Kang White has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Mallo has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This makes the Mallo slightly easier to actuate but still provides a satisfying bottom out force for a tactile typing experience. The actuation force of the Kang White is slightly higher, providing a bit more resistance when typing compared to the Mallo. Both switches offer a medium to medium-light typing experience, suitable for a variety of preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force with the Kang White or a lighter touch with the Mallo for your typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is identical for both switches. As a result, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and feedback when using either switch. The travel distance plays a significant role in determining the typing experience and actuation point of a switch. In this case, both the Kang White and the Mallo offer a consistent travel distance, providing users with a familiar typing experience regardless of which switch they choose.
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 KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 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 KTT Kang White linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow typing experience suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo tactile switch presents a neutral and subdued sound, meaning it produces a dampened and subtle typing noise that remains noticeable without being overwhelming. Both switches offer versatile sound signatures that cater to different preferences, ensuring a pleasant auditory experience for typists.
In terms of feel, the KTT Kang White linear switch does not have specific descriptors provided, suggesting a more standard typing experience without standout characteristics. In contrast, the KTT Mallo tactile switch offers a feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle typing feel. This indicates that the Mallo switch is exceptionally light to press, provides a gentle and approachable typing experience, features a two-stage tactile feedback, and offers a gentle resistance for comfortable extended typing sessions. Typists can expect a comfortable and subtle tactile response from the Mallo switch.
Overall, both the KTT Kang White linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch bring unique qualities to the table when it comes to sound and feel. The Kang White excels in providing a low-pitched and smooth typing experience with its self-lubricating material, while the Mallo stands out with its subtle and gentle tactility that strikes a balanced chord for typists. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, typists can choose between the dazzling and mellow typing experience of the Kang White or the subdued and feathery feel of the Mallo. With either switch, typists can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard experience tailored to their needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Kang White linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, consider the unique characteristics of each. The Kang White offers a smooth typing experience with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the Mallo provides a gentle tactility, a subdued sound, and a feathery feel, ideal for those looking for a more comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and overall typing experience.
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