Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the linear Keygeek Raw switch with the tactile KTT Mallo switch, it's clear that both offer unique advantages to different types of users. The Keygeek Raw stands out for its creamy yet lightweight feel, thanks to its blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon materials. This switch provides a slightly textured experience that can be further enhanced with hand-lubing, making it ideal for enthusiasts looking for a customizable typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo excels in offering subtle tactility and a medium-light typing feel, striking a balanced chord for typists seeking gentle feedback without an overpowering sensation. Additionally, its neutral sound signature makes it a 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
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Keygeek Raw and KTT Mallo both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles and overall typing experience. The Keygeek Raw's Nylon & UPE blend top housing offers an exclusive blend that likely provides a distinct sound compared to traditional housing materials. On the other hand, the Mallo's polycarbonate top housing is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. While both materials may offer different sound profiles, they both utilize innovative materials to enhance the typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Keygeek Raw's UMPE & Si blend offers a unique blend exclusive to their switches. This blend likely brings unique qualities to the switch's sound profile and typing experience. On the other hand, the Mallo's nylon bottom housing is a classic material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. While both materials offer different sound profiles, they both contribute to creating a distinct typing experience for users.
While the Keygeek Raw and KTT Mallo utilize different housing materials, each material brings its own set of qualities to the overall sound profile and typing experience of the switch. The split between the top and bottom housing allows for a diverse range of sound when typing on the switches. The impact of the bottom housing can be felt when bottoming out keys, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Overall, both switches offer unique housing materials that cater to different preferences in sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, we can see that the Mallo has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the Raw's 57.5 grams. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, which means we can expect similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke. The weight difference between the two switches is worth considering, as a lighter switch like the Mallo may be preferred for longer typing sessions or extended gaming use, while the slightly heavier Raw switch may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference between the two. The Keygeek Raw linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the KTT Mallo tactile switch. The shorter travel distance of the Keygeek Raw may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the KTT Mallo may provide a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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 Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch fall under the neutral category, meaning they offer a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various purposes. However, the Mallo switch also boasts a subdued sound signature, providing a more subtle typing experience in comparison to the Keygeek Raw.
Moving on to feel, the Keygeek Raw switch is described as having a textured feel right out of the box, offering a slightly scratchy typing experience that may be preferred by some users. It also provides a mild and subtle resistance, creating a gentle and approachable typing feel. On the other hand, the Mallo switch is characterized by a feathery lightness that requires little exertion from the fingers, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. It also offers a mild and subtle tactile feedback, making it comfortable for various typing environments.
Overall, while both switches have certain unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they share similarities in being neutral switches that are versatile for a wide range of typing needs. The Keygeek Raw offers a slightly textured feel and a creamy lightweight design, while the KTT Mallo provides a gentle tactility and a balanced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, with the Keygeek Raw offering a more textured experience and the KTT Mallo providing a lighter, more feather-like touch.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you value a creamy yet lightweight switch that you can hand-lube for a personalized feel, opt for the Keygeek Raw. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a gentle tactility and a balanced typing experience that is versatile in various environments, the Mallo may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for feel and customization options, as both switches offer neutral sound profiles suitable for most users.
Mentioned in this article
