KTT Lightning vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Lightning and KTT Mallo offer distinct characteristics to cater to different preferences. The Lightning is a linear switch designed for speed, making it ideal for gaming situations where split-second decisions can make a difference. With a slick type feel and a clacky sound profile, the Lightning provides a satisfying and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Mallo is a tactile switch that focuses on subtlety and finesse. Offering a gentle tactility and a medium-light typing feel, the Mallo strikes a balanced chord for typists seeking feedback without overpowering sensations. While the Lightning excels in providing a fast and precise typing experience, the Mallo offers a versatile and subtle 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
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 housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the KTT Mallo share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, the difference in sound may come from the bottom housing material.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials of the Lightning and the Mallo differ, with the Lightning utilizing a nylon bottom housing while the Mallo also features a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to switches with a different bottom housing material. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material may lead to a noticeable variation in sound and feel when typing on the switches.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the KTT Lightning and KTT Mallo results in a unique sound profile. While the use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharp and clear sound, the nylon bottom housing adds depth and fullness to the sound. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a distinct typing experience that balances between the impact of bottom-out sound and the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between the Lightning and the Mallo may come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it is evident that the Lightning switch is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. The Lightning switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a light and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Mallo switch has a lower actuation force of None grams (unknown) and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light option. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the Lightning switch would be the ideal choice, allowing for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. However, for users who prefer a bit more resistance and feedback in their keystrokes, the Mallo switch may provide a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the KTT Mallo tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lightning switch offers a quicker response time, which is often favored by gamers for faster reactions during gameplay. On the other hand, the Mallo switch provides a deeper key press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter or longer 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 KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 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, the KTT Lightning linear switch offers a clacky, high-pitched, and chirpy sound profile that is sharp, crisp, and percussive. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo tactile switch provides a more neutral and subdued sound signature that is moderate and dampened. Depending on personal preference and the setup of your keyboard, the Lightning switch will deliver a more pronounced and vibrant sound, while the Mallo switch will offer a more subtle and versatile auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Lightning linear switch is described as having a subtle and polished typing experience, with gentle resistance and smooth key travel. Contrastingly, the KTT Mallo tactile switch is characterized by its feathery, mild, and stepped feel, providing a light and comfortable typing experience with a unique two-stage tactile sensation. Both switches offer a different typing feel that caters to individual preferences and typing styles, with the Lightning switch focusing on a refined and slick feel, while the Mallo switch prioritizes a gentle tactility for extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the KTT Lightning linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lightning switch delivers a sharp and clacky sound with a subtle and polished feel, perfect for fast typing scenarios where precision is key. On the other hand, the Mallo switch provides a neutral and subdued sound profile coupled with a feathery and mild typing feel, catering to users who prefer a more balanced and comfortable typing experience. Depending on your preferences and typing needs, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, whether you choose the Lightning or Mallo switch, you can expect top-notch performance and quality from KTT mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prioritize speed and a clacky sound profile, the Lightning switch may be the ideal choice for you, especially if you require quick response times in gaming or competitive typing scenarios. On the other hand, if you value a gentle tactility and a versatile sound signature that is suitable for various typing environments, the Mallo switch might be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a light and responsive typing experience with the Lightning switch or a balanced and subtle typing feel with the Mallo switch. Choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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