KTT Mallo vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is clear that both offer unique advantages for different typing preferences. The Mallo is celebrated for its subtle tactility and medium-light typing feel, providing a balanced and versatile option for typists who appreciate a gentler feedback. On the other hand, the Nixie is known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, combining tradition with modern innovation through updated materials and springs. While the Mallo excels in providing a neutral sound signature and a subdued typing experience, the Nixie offers a low-pitched and thocky feel that is favored by many enthusiasts. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mallo and the Cherry Nixie, both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the plastic's softer nature that absorbs more sound. However, the Mallo features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Nixie's nylon top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Mallo's top housing also allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, adding a visual aesthetic component to the switch that the Nixie may not offer.
Despite their differences in top housing materials, both the Mallo and the Nixie share the benefit of nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characteristic of this classic switch housing material. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a unique typing experience, where the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more impact on the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings may result in a balanced typing experience for users of both switches, regardless of the differences in top housing materials.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Mallo and the Cherry Nixie may come down to personal preference regarding sound profile and aesthetic considerations. The sharper and crisper sound profile of the Mallo's polycarbonate top housing may appeal to users seeking a more defined typing experience, especially with the added visual appeal of RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Nixie's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile that some users may find more satisfying. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the combination of their top and bottom housing materials, highlighting the importance of housing material selection in the overall design and performance of mechanical switches.
Weight
The KTT Mallo tactile switch has a unique characteristic of having a actuation force of None grams, meaning it requires no force to trigger a keystroke, while the Cherry Nixie linear switch has an actuation force of 63.5 grams, making it heavier. The Mallo also has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light, compared to the Nixie's 80 grams, which is on the heavier side. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Mallo more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while users seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the heavier actuation force of the Cherry Nixie. Both switches offer distinct tactile experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individual preferences for typing feedback.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch have the same 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 a similar travel distance from the top to the bottom. This can contribute to a consistent typing experience across different keyboards that utilize these switches. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is suitable for users looking for a moderate key press depth without being too shallow or too deep.
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 Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.15.
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 offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for various environments without being too disruptive. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience. Depending on your preference, the Mallo's subtle sound or the Nixie's rich thocky sound can cater to different auditory preferences, with the choice of keyboard and keycaps also playing a role in the final sound output.
In terms of feel, the KTT Mallo switch is characterized by a feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle typing experience. It offers a light actuation force, gentle resistance, and a balanced tactile feedback, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie switch is known for its textured feel, providing noticeable friction that some users may prefer for a unique typing sensation. Depending on whether you prefer a smooth or textured typing experience, the Mallo's gentle feel or the Nixie's textured sensation can cater to different preferences.
Overall, the KTT Mallo switch excels in providing a balanced and versatile typing experience with its neutral sound and gentle tactile feedback. It offers a medium-light typing feel that strikes a chord for typists looking for a comfortable and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie switch combines tradition with modern innovation, offering a substantial and textured typing feel with a thocky and low-pitched sound profile. Both switches have their unique qualities, and the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when making a choice between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound. If you value a gentle tactility and a neutral sound profile, the Mallo may be the ideal choice for you. Its medium-light bottom out force and subtle feedback make it suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a thocky, low-pitched sound, the Nixie could be the perfect fit for you. With its textured typing experience and traditional yet updated materials, the Nixie provides a substantial and satisfying feel while typing. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your individual preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics.
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