KTT Mallo vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a gentle tactility and medium-light typing feel, the KTT Mallo switch stands out as a prime choice. Known for its subtlety and finesse in design, the Mallo provides just enough feedback without being overpowering, making it a balanced option for typists. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade switch is characterized by its clicky nature and is perfect for those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory experience while typing. While the Mallo exudes a neutral sound signature, the Blue Jade offers a more distinct typing sound. When deciding between these two switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Mallo and the Outemu Blue Jade both feature a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. However, the Mallo's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Blue Jade's nylon top housing, which produces a duller and rounder sound. This difference in top housing material can result in a noticeable variation in sound output between the two switches, with the Mallo offering a brighter and more resonant sound while the Blue Jade provides a more muted and subdued typing experience.
Despite the differences in top housing material, both the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Blue Jade share the use of nylon for their bottom housing. This commonality means that both switches will offer a similar deep and full sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound and creating a duller sound compared to harder plastics. While the top housing may have a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and overall typing feel of the switch. Therefore, despite the varied top housing materials, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound output and feel from both the Mallo and the Blue Jade due to their shared nylon bottom housing.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical keyboard switches plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience for users. The KTT Mallo's combination of a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing results in a sharper and brighter sound profile, while the Outemu Blue Jade's nylon top and bottom housings create a deeper and fuller sound. The differences in housing materials between the two switches offer users a choice in sound characteristics, with the Mallo providing a crisper sound and the Blue Jade offering a rounder sound. Ultimately, the selection of housing materials in a switch can impact the overall typing experience, making it essential for users to consider their preferences when choosing between these two switches.
Weight
The KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch have notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Mallo has an actuation force of None grams, making it unknown, while the Blue Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams, making it heavier. In terms of bottom out force, the Mallo requires 55 grams for bottoming out, which is medium-light, whereas the Blue Jade requires 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. The lighter actuation force of the Mallo may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier actuation force of the Blue Jade may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. It's worth noting that the travel distance of both switches is relatively average compared to other switches on the market, offering a comfortable typing experience for most users. Whether you choose the Mallo or the Blue Jade, you can expect a consistent and satisfying travel distance that enhances your typing or gaming experience.
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 Outemu Blue Jade comes in at $3.10 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 is known for its neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments without being overpowering. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch lacks specific descriptions regarding sound characteristics. Thus, if sound is a key factor for you, the Mallo may be a more reliable choice due to its known sound qualities.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Mallo tactile switch offers a feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle typing experience. These qualities contribute to reduced finger fatigue and a comfortable typing session. In contrast, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch. Therefore, if a light and comfortable typing experience is important to you, the Mallo may be the better option based on the information provided.
In conclusion, the KTT Mallo tactile switch stands out for its subtle tactility, feathery typing feel, and neutral sound signature, providing a balanced and versatile typing experience for users. While the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch may also offer desirable qualities, the lack of specific descriptions makes it challenging to compare directly. Ultimately, for a newcomer looking for a reliable and comfortable typing experience, the Mallo switch may be the recommended choice based on the available information.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-light typing force and a subtle tactile feedback that doesn't overpower, the Mallo switch would be an excellent choice for you. Its neutral sound signature and feathery feel make it a versatile option for various typing environments. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heavier typing force and a more pronounced clicky sound, the Blue Jade switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing experiences.
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