KTT Mallo vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Mallo tactile switch to the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, it's evident that each offers unique qualities for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Mallo excels in subtlety and finesse, providing a gentle tactile feedback that maintains a balanced typing experience. With a neutral sound signature and medium-light typing feel, the Mallo is versatile in various environments. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple switch lacks specific standout features but falls under the clicky switch category. While both switches have their strengths, the choice ultimately depends on individual preferences and typing needs. 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
55g
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
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
The KTT Mallo and the Outemu Dustproof Purple both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the resonance and clarity of the sound produced by the switch. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing effect. Despite both switches sharing the same material for their top housing, the specific design and construction of each switch may result in slight variations in sound and feel.
On the other hand, the KTT Mallo features a nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Outemu Dustproof Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon. This difference in bottom housing material between the two switches may impact the overall typing experience, as the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the qualities of the bottom housing material.
While both switches may share similarities in their housing materials, the specific characteristics and properties of each material will ultimately contribute to unique sound profiles and typing experiences. The division of housing materials between the top and bottom of a switch allows for a balanced distribution of qualities that impact the sound and feel of typing. Whether it be the stiffer polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound or the softer nylon bottom housing for a fuller sound, each material plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience of the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches.
Weight
The KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch have noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Mallo has an actuation force of None grams, making it quite light, while the Dustproof Purple requires 55 grams of force to actuate. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Mallo has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is medium-light, whereas the Dustproof Purple has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. This means that the Mallo will feel lighter to type on compared to the Dustproof Purple, which offers a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity in travel distance allows for a consistent typing experience across both switches. Whether you choose the Mallo or the Dustproof Purple switch, you can expect the same level of key travel, ensuring that your typing experience is equally comfortable and efficient with either option.
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 Purple 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 that is suitable for most typing environments. It provides a moderate actuation force requirement and a dampened sound when pressed, striking a balance between being audible enough for feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch's sound characteristics are unknown. When considering feel, the Mallo switch is described as feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle, providing a light typing experience with a gentle tactile feedback. This makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions and suitable for shared spaces. However, the feel of the Dustproof Purple switch is unspecified.
In conclusion, the KTT Mallo tactile switch excels in providing a versatile and balanced typing experience with its subtle tactility and neutral sound profile. Its feathery and mild feel caters to a wide range of typists, making it a suitable choice for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch lacks specific information on both sound and feel qualities, making it harder to compare directly to the Mallo. Ultimately, while the Mallo switch is a solid option with well-defined characteristics, the Dustproof Purple switch may offer a different experience that is worth exploring for those looking for a distinct typing feel and sound profile.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that offers a balanced and gentle typing experience with just enough tactile feedback, the KTT Mallo tactile switch with its medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams would be the ideal choice for you. The Mallo's neutral sound signature and feathery feel make it versatile for various typing environments and comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and a clicky sound profile, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences, whether you prioritize a subtle and light typing experience or a more pronounced clicky sound with a heavier feel.
Mentioned in this article
