KTT Mallo vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Mallo, a tactile switch, and the KTT Orange, a linear switch, it's clear that both have unique characteristics to offer. The Mallo excels in providing a subtle and balanced tactile feedback, making it an excellent choice for typists looking for a gentle typing experience. On the other hand, the Orange switch stands out for its bouncy and frictionless typing feel, along with a low-pitched sound profile. Depending on personal preferences, one might lean towards the Mallo for its mild and neutral characteristics, while others may prefer the Orange for its bouncy and smooth 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
46g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Mallo and KTT Orange both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound overall. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the KTT Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound.
While both the KTT Mallo and KTT Orange utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, they differ in terms of their bottom housings. The KTT Mallo's nylon bottom housing offers a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the KTT Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, in line with the characteristics of polycarbonate. This contrast showcases how different housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
In terms of user experience, the qualities of the bottom housing material will be most noticeable when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the qualities of the top housing material will be more apparent when releasing a key, impacting the sound during keystroke release. As such, the choice of housing materials for both the top and bottom of a switch plays a significant role in dictating the sound profile and overall typing experience for the user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, it is clear that they both fall into the medium-light category. The Mallo has an actuation force of None grams, making it lighter in terms of initial force required to trigger a keystroke, while its bottom out force is 55 grams. On the other hand, the Orange switch has an actuation force of 46 grams, slightly heavier than the Mallo, with a bottom out force of 53 grams. Both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of weight, making them suitable for long typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between a lighter actuation force or slightly heavier one depends on personal preference for typing feel and experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Orange linear switch have different travel distances, with the Mallo having a travel distance of 4 mm and the Orange having a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Mallo's 4 mm travel distance is on the longer end of the spectrum, offering a deeper key press experience compared to the Orange's 3.5 mm travel distance. Gamers who value faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Orange switch, while those who enjoy a more robust key press may opt for the Mallo. Both switches offer a different feel and level of feedback due to their varying travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in choosing the switch that best suits individual needs and preferences.
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 KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange 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 tactile switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for various environments without being too overwhelming. On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switch provides a low-pitched tone, giving a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to other switches. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the typing experience based on personal preferences and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the KTT Mallo tactile switch is described as feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle, offering a light and gentle typing experience with subtle tactile feedback. In comparison, the KTT Orange linear switch provides a bouncy and frictionless typing feel, giving a spring-like sensation with smooth key travel and minimal resistance. Each switch offers a different typing experience, catering to users who prefer light and subtle feedback versus those who enjoy a more lively and effortless typing feel.
Considering the subjective qualities of both switches, the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Orange linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Mallo provides a balanced and versatile experience with its neutral sound and feathery feel, ideal for those who prefer a subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Orange offers a low-pitched sound profile and bouncy, frictionless feel, catering to users who enjoy a more dynamic and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the KTT Mallo and KTT Orange switches, you should consider your preference for typing feel and sound profile. If you value a feathery and mild typing experience with a neutral and subdued sound, the Mallo tactile switch may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and frictionless typing feel with a low-pitched sound profile, the Orange linear switch might be more to your liking. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so make sure to choose based on what aligns best with your personal preferences and needs.
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