KTT Mallo vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Mallo and the Gateron Melodic are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct typing experiences. The Mallo, a tactile switch, is praised for its subtle tactility and medium-light typing feel, making it a balanced choice for typists who enjoy a gentle feedback without being overpowering. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic, a clicky switch, redefines the classic clicky sound with advancements such as factory lubing and dual-railed stems, providing a smooth typing experience while still retaining that satisfying clicky feedback. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences; the Mallo with its feathery and neutral feel, and the Melodic with its buttery and invigorating sound. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Mallo and the Gateron Melodic both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that resonates well, resulting in clear and distinct sound characteristics. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard. With both switches featuring polycarbonate top housings, users can expect a similar sound profile and aesthetic experience.
On the other hand, the KTT Mallo and the Gateron Melodic differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Mallo using nylon and the Melodic also opting for nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite having the same material for the bottom housing, the specific design and construction of each switch may still lead to slightly different typing experiences and sound profiles.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note how each material influences the sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This distinction highlights the importance of carefully selecting housing materials to achieve the desired typing feel and sound profile in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch both have a similar actuation force of None grams, making them equally sensitive in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Mallo has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the Melodic's 60 grams, making the Mallo slightly lighter in feel. For some users, the lighter bottom out force of the Mallo may be preferable for longer typing sessions or gaming, providing a less fatiguing experience. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Melodic with its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. Both switches offer a consistent tactile feedback and a satisfying typing experience due to their identical travel distances. The 4 mm travel distance on both switches gives users a good balance between keypress depth and typing comfort. Overall, whether you choose the KTT Mallo or the Gateron Melodic, you can expect a similar travel distance and typing experience.
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 Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 Mallo switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments without being too overpowering. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic switch provides a more resonant and crunchy sound, offering a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience with a classic clicky sound. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel, the Mallo switch is described as feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle, providing a gentle tactile experience with a light typing feel that is comfortable for extended use. In contrast, the Melodic switch is characterized as buttery and invigorating, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel. Both switches provide a unique typing sensation tailored to different preferences and needs.
In conclusion, the KTT Mallo switch emphasizes subtlety and finesse with a balanced tactile feedback and medium-light typing feel, accompanied by a neutral and subdued sound signature. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic switch brings innovation to the clicky switch category with smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, offering a resonant and crunchy sound profile with a buttery and invigorating typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to a variety of typing styles and environments. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you prefer a feathery, mild typing experience with a neutral and subdued sound profile, the Mallo switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a buttery, invigorating typing sensation with a resonant and crunchy sound profile, the Melodic switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by what type of typing experience you find most enjoyable and comfortable.
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