KTT Mallo vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch. The KTT 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 Dustproof Blue switch lacks specific standout features but is known for its satisfying clicky sound. While the Mallo leans towards a feathery and subdued feel, the Dustproof Blue switch remains categorized as a blank canvas. 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
Partial box
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 housing materials of the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Dustproof Blue, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of both switches allows for clear and resonant sound due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting. Despite their similarities in top housing material, the switches differ in their bottom housing composition.
The KTT Mallo features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering the same qualities of a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches affects the overall typing experience by influencing the bottom-out sound and feel.
While the top and bottom housings of the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Dustproof Blue differ in material composition, they each contribute unique qualities to the overall sound profile and typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a balance of impact on both the bottom-out sound and feel as well as the sound when releasing a key. These differences highlight how the housing materials of a switch can play a significant role in shaping the overall auditory and tactile feedback during typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, there are notable differences to consider. The actuation force of the Mallo is None grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke compared to the Dustproof Blue, which has an actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Mallo requires 55 grams, which is lighter than the Dustproof Blue's 65 grams. This means that while the Mallo provides a lighter initial touch, the Dustproof Blue offers a heavier typing experience overall. Those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Dustproof Blue, while those looking for a lighter touch may opt for the Mallo. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel from top to bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that the typing experience with both switches will feel consistent in terms of keypress depth. In this case, there is no significant difference in travel distance between the two switches.
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 Dustproof Blue 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Mallo switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile that is suitable for a variety of purposes and environments. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is unknown. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Mallo switch is known for its feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle typing experience. This means that it provides a light typing feel with gentle resistance, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. In comparison, information on the typing feel of the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is unavailable.
In conclusion, the KTT Mallo switch excels in offering a balanced and versatile tactile typing experience with a neutral sound profile. While information on the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is lacking, based on the qualities of the Mallo switch, it can be expected that the Dustproof Blue switch may provide similar results in terms of typing feel and sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, you should consider your preference for typing feel and bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a feathery or subtle feel, and a medium-light bottom out force, the Mallo switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a more pronounced tactile feedback along with a clicky sound, the Dustproof Blue switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
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