KTT Mallo vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mallo and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) stand out as excellent options, each offering unique features to enhance your typing experience. The KTT Mallo switch is praised for its gentle tactility and medium-light typing feel, providing just the right amount of feedback without overwhelming the user. Its neutral sound signature makes it versatile for different typing environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro switch is known for its smooth and affordable typing experience, offering buttery smooth keystrokes and a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound. While the Mallo switch focuses on subtlety and finesse, the Milky Red Pro switch emphasizes smoothness and affordability. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
52g
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
Nylon
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
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mallo and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), it is clear that both switches feature a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for providing 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. Therefore, both the Mallo and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to the bottom housing.
On the other hand, the Mallo utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Mallo's top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. In comparison, the nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Therefore, the sound produced by these switches will vary significantly based on the differences in their top housing materials.
When considering the overall sound profile of the switches, it is important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials will have a direct impact on the typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch, such as the nylon bottom housing found in both the Mallo and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3), will affect the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing material, whether it be polycarbonate or nylon, will influence the sound when a key is released. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the specific sound profile and feel that the individual prefers while typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is clear that the Mallo switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Milky Red Pro's 52 grams. However, the actuation force of the Milky Red Pro is 45 grams, while the actuation force of the Mallo is unknown. In terms of weight, the Mallo may provide a more substantial typing experience due to its slightly heavier bottom out force, while the Milky Red Pro offers a lighter touch with its lower actuation force. Both switches fall into the medium-light category of force requirements, making them suitable for individuals who prefer a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance. Both switches offer a standard tactile feedback and smooth keystrokes, making them ideal choices for typing and gaming. As a result, users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and response when using either switch. So, whether you choose the KTT Mallo tactile switch or the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, you can enjoy a comfortable typing experience with a consistent 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 Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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 Mallo switch is known for its neutral and subdued sound profile, offering a moderate yet subtle sound signature that is suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is characterized by a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. If you prefer a more neutral and subdued sound, the Mallo may be the way to go, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch offers a more bass-heavy and satisfying sound experience.
In terms of feel, the Mallo switch is described as feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle, offering a light typing feel with little exertion required from the fingers. This switch provides a comfortable typing experience, especially for extended periods of typing. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is known for its buttery feel, providing a smooth and fluid typing sensation that is seamless and effortless. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the Mallo focusing on a gentle tactility and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) emphasizing a smooth keystroke.
Overall, the KTT Mallo switch excels in providing a balanced and versatile typing experience with its subtle tactility and medium-light feel, accompanied by a neutral and subdued sound signature. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch offers a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience with a bassy, thocky sound profile. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose between the gentle tactility of the Mallo or the smooth keystrokes of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) to enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the KTT Mallo tactile switch or the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, you should opt for the Mallo if you prefer a subtle tactility and a neutral sound profile that won't be too intrusive in various typing environments. The Mallo's medium-light typing feel strikes a balanced chord for typists who appreciate finesse in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you value a smooth and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched "thock" sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) would be the ideal choice for you. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a budget-friendly option with a light actuation force that ensures a comfortable and effortless typing sensation. Ultimately, your decision should align with your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and overall typing experience.
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