KTT Mallo vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Mallo and Cherry MX Brown mechanical keyboard switches both offer a tactile typing experience with a gentle tactility, but they differ in some key aspects. The Mallo switches are praised for their subtlety and finesse, providing just enough feedback without being overpowering. On the other hand, the MX Brown switches are known for their light typing experience and subdued audio feedback. While both switches are versatile choices for various typing environments, the Mallo may be preferred for its medium-light typing feel, while the MX Brown stands out for its low-pitched 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
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
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mallo and the Cherry MX Brown, we can see some key differences. The KTT Mallo features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown uses a nylon top housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to nylon's softer nature. This contrast in material results in distinct sound experiences for users of each switch.
Moving on to the bottom housing of the switches, we find a similar trend. The Mallo utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which, like its top housing, offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Similarly, the Cherry MX Brown also uses a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a consistent sound experience throughout the switch. This shared material for the bottom housing ensures a similar feeling and sound when pressing down on the keys for both switches.
Overall, the choice of housing material plays a significant role in the sound profile and user experience of mechanical switches. While the KTT Mallo's polycarbonate housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, the Cherry MX Brown's nylon housing provides a deeper and fuller sound experience. Whether it's the top housing impacting the sound when releasing a key or the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, these differences in material lead to distinct typing experiences for users of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Mallo tactile switch to the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is evident that the Mallo is lighter in terms of actuation force, as it requires None grams compared to the 45 grams needed for the MX Brown. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 55 grams, making them medium-light in that aspect. The actuation force of a switch is crucial for determining how much force is needed to register a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the force required to press the key all the way down. This difference in actuation force may result in slightly different typing experiences, with the Mallo providing a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, while the MX Brown offers a slightly more substantial typing experience with a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the difference in actuation force between the two switches may lead to a preference based on individual typing preferences and comfort levels.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity ensures that whether you are using a keyboard with the KTT Mallo or Cherry MX Brown switches, you can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of how far the keys travel when pressed.
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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 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 Mallo tactile switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of typing environments without being overpowering. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is characterized by a bassy and low-pitched sound, providing a deeper and richer audio feedback during key presses. Depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard and keycaps, choosing between the two switches would result in different auditory experiences.
Moving on to feel, the Mallo tactile switch provides a feathery and mild typing experience, with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Mallo switch is described as having a subtle and stepped feel, offering a gentle resistance while maintaining a light typing feel. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown switch is labeled as textured, meaning it provides noticeable friction when pressed, which may appeal to users who prefer a more tactile typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Mallo tactile switch is ideal for those seeking a balanced and subtle typing experience with a neutral sound profile, while the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch caters to individuals who appreciate a deeper, richer sound and a textured typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound and feel, as both options offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience for newcomers in the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that embodies subtlety and finesse with a gentle tactility and a neutral sound profile, then the KTT Mallo tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a light typing experience with gentle tactility and a bassy, low-pitched sound profile, then the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you value the most – whether it's a feathery feel with subtle sound or a textured feel with a deeper, richer sound. Choose wisely based on your typing needs and preferences.
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