KTT Mallo vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Mallo, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Brown, also a tactile switch. The Mallo switches are praised for their subtlety and finesse in design, offering a gentle tactility that provides feedback without being overpowering. With a medium-light typing feel and a neutral sound signature, the Mallo is a versatile choice for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown switch is not widely known for its specific features. The Mallo switch is categorized as feathery, mild, neutral, stepped, subdued, and subtle, while the Brown switch does not have specific categorizations. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different users; 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
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Polycarbonate
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
In comparing the KTT Mallo and Outemu Brown housing materials, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of switches is beneficial for those looking to utilize RGB lighting due to its translucency. This material is relatively stiff, leading to a clear and resonant sound. However, while both switches share this common feature in their top housing, the Mallo incorporates a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. In contrast, the Outemu Brown also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing a similar experience in terms of sound through the bottom housing material.
Despite the similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the KTT Mallo and Outemu Brown differ in their use of nylon bottom housings. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. The Mallo showcases this characteristic with its nylon bottom housing, providing a unique typing experience compared to switches with different bottom housing materials. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar sound profile that is deeper and fuller when compared to switches with alternative bottom housing materials.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches such as the KTT Mallo and Outemu Brown impacts the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches. While both switches share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, their differentiation lies in the bottom housing material. The Mallo's nylon bottom housing creates a distinct typing experience with a deeper sound profile, while the Outemu Brown offers a similar typing experience with its own nylon bottom housing. Understanding the impact of each housing material on sound quality can help users make informed decisions when selecting switches for their keyboards.
Weight
The KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Mallo has an actuation force of None grams, making it unclear, and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light. In comparison, the Brown has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it slightly heavier at medium-heavy. This means that the Mallo requires less force to trigger a keystroke but still provides a satisfying typing experience, while the Brown offers a slightly more substantial feel with a heavier bottom out force. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Mallo for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Brown for a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and whether a lighter or heavier touch is preferred.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance, resulting in a similar typing experience. The 4mm travel distance allows for a satisfying tactile feedback while typing, offering users a comfortable and responsive feel. Whether you choose the KTT Mallo or the Outemu Brown, you can expect a consistent typing experience with a moderate travel distance that strikes a balance between precision and comfort.
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 Brown 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
Overall, the KTT Mallo tactile switch is renowned for its subtle tactility and medium-light typing feel, providing a balanced and comfortable experience for typists. The neutral sound signature of the Mallo ensures that it remains versatile for various typing environments without being distracting. In contrast, the Outemu Brown tactile switch lacks specific descriptions for both sound and feel, suggesting that it may not offer the same level of nuanced experience as the Mallo. However, without specific information on the Brown switch, it is difficult to directly compare the subjective qualities between the two. To get similar results to the Mallo, one could consider opting for switches with descriptions of being feathery, mild, stepped, or subtle, providing a comfortable and subtle typing experience. Ultimately, when choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, it is essential to consider personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience to find the perfect match for your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, you should choose the Mallo if you prefer a medium-light typing feel with a subtle tactility and neutral sound signature. The Mallo is a versatile option suitable for various typing environments, providing a balanced and comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, you should opt for the Outemu Brown if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a more traditional tactile typing experience. The Brown offers a medium-heavy typing feel without additional descriptors for its sound and feel, making it a reliable choice for those who prefer a more standard mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing needs, whether you prioritize a lighter touch and subtle feedback with the Mallo or a slightly heavier touch with the Brown.
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