KTT Mallo vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Mallo and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry are two distinct tactile mechanical keyboard switches, each offering unique characteristics for typing enthusiasts. The Mallo is celebrated for its gentle tactility and medium-light typing feel, providing just enough feedback without being overpowering. Its neutral sound signature allows for versatility in various typing environments. On the other hand, the Blueberry switches feature a sharp tactile bump, appealing to those who prefer a more pronounced typing experience. With a lower-than-average sound frequency and a textured feel, the Blueberry switches offer an invigorating typing experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Mallo and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer unique characteristics that impact the sound and feel of the switches. The Mallo features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Blueberry's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. However, both switches offer a translucent top housing, making them suitable for use with RGB lighting, and each material contributes to the overall sound signature of the switch in its own way.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Mallo utilizes a nylon housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer and more sound-absorbent nature. Similarly, the Blueberry also features a POM bottom housing, contributing to the overall sound profile of the switch by creating a deeper and more muted sound. While the top housing typically affects the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches can greatly impact their sound and feel, with polycarbonate and nylon offering a sharper and deeper sound profile, respectively, in the Mallo, while POM provides a unique and pleasing sound in the Blueberry switch. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles tailored to different preferences. Whether you prefer a crisper, sharper sound or a deeper, more muted tone, both switches offer unique qualities to enhance your typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it is evident that the Mallo has a lighter actuation force of None grams, while the Blueberry has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Mallo requires 55 grams, which is considered medium-light, whereas the Blueberry requires 80 grams, making it a heavier switch. The lighter actuation force of the Mallo may be preferred by those who value longer typing sessions or gaming sessions without experiencing fatigue, while the heavier actuation force of the Blueberry may be favored by individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide unique tactile experiences, with the Mallo offering a lighter touch and the Blueberry offering a heavier push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry 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, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity in travel distance between the two switches suggests that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of key travel. Overall, the KTT Mallo and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer a similar tactile feedback and key travel distance, giving users a familiar typing experience regardless of which switch they choose.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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 offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, making it a versatile choice suitable for various environments without being too intrusive. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry provides a low-pitched and resonant sound experience, offering a deeper tone with sharpness for those who enjoy a more distinctive auditory feedback. Depending on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard, users may find one more appealing than the other in terms of sound.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the KTT Mallo is characterized by a feathery, mild, and subtle typing experience with a balanced tactility that is comfortable for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch offers a snappy, buttery, and invigorating feel, providing a more responsive and lively typing sensation with noticeable feedback and a moderate actuation force. Depending on individual typing styles and preferences, users may prefer the lighter and gentler touch of the Mallo or the more pronounced feedback of the Blueberry.
Overall, the KTT Mallo and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer distinct sound and feel profiles to cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Mallo provides a neutral and subtle typing experience, the Blueberry delivers a sharper and more resonant feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and the overall typing experience desired by the user. Both switches offer quality tactile feedback and actuation forces that can enhance the typing experience for newcomers looking to explore the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a subtle and versatile switch with a balanced tactile feel and a neutral sound signature, the KTT Mallo tactile switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp tactile bump with a lower-than-average sound frequency and a more immersive auditory experience, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch may be more to your liking. Consider your preference for bottom out force, typing feel, and sound profile when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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