KTT Mallo vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Mallo and the Outemu Cream Pink are both popular choices in the mechanical keyboard switch world, each offering unique characteristics to cater to different preferences. The Mallo is favored for its gentle tactility and medium-light typing feel, providing just the right amount of feedback without being too overwhelming. With a neutral sound signature, it is versatile for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Cream Pink is a linear switch that falls under a different category. While the Mallo is described as 'feathery', 'mild', 'neutral', 'stepped', 'subdued', and 'subtle', there is no specific information provided about the Cream Pink's characteristics. 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
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Cream Pink switches feature a top housing made of nylon. This material choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. However, the Mallo's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for those who prefer a more resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Cream Pink's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that may be more pleasing to those who enjoy a softer typing sound.
On the other hand, both the Mallo and the Cream Pink switches utilize a nylon bottom housing. This common material choice also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, regardless of the brand, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile when it comes to the bottom housings of these switches.
In summary, while the top and bottom housings of the KTT Mallo and Outemu Cream Pink switches differ in material, they both offer a deep and full sound profile due to the use of nylon. The stiffness of the Mallo's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper sound profile, while the Cream Pink's nylon top housing results in a rounder sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing sound and feel.
Weight
The KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch have different actuation forces and bottom out forces, making for a varied typing experience. The Mallo has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it has a light touch to trigger a keystroke, and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a medium-light feel when pressing all the way down. On the other hand, the Cream Pink has an actuation force of 50 grams, offering a slightly heavier push to initiate a keystroke, and a bottom out force of 65 grams, giving it a medium-heavy feel when fully pressed. The Mallo is lighter in terms of bottom out force, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Cream Pink provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing tactile and linear switches, the tactile switch typically offers more feedback and resistance to touch, while the linear switch provides a smoother keystroke without the tactile bump. Despite their differences in feel, the travel distance remains the same for both switches, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of key travel. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of travel distance when using either switch, making the choice between the two switches a matter of personal preference based on typing feel rather than key travel.
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 Cream Pink 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 switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, providing a comfortable typing experience without being disruptive to others. As for the feel, the Mallo switch is described as feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle, combining a light actuation force with a gentle typing experience. The Outemu Cream Pink switch's sound and feel qualities are unknown. Overall, if the Cream Pink switch offers similar characteristics to the Mallo, users can expect a versatile switch that strikes a balance between tactile feedback, typing comfort, and a neutral sound signature. Both switches are suitable for a variety of typing environments, making them reliable options for newcomers looking for a pleasant typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a subtle tactility for a balanced typing experience, the Mallo would be a great choice. Its neutral sound signature and feathery feel make it versatile for various typing environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a linear switch for a smooth typing experience, the Cream Pink could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific characteristics you value in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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