KTT Mallo vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, it's evident that both switches offer unique characteristics to cater to different preferences. The Mallo stands out for its gentle tactility, medium-light typing feel, and neutral sound signature, making it a well-balanced option for typists who appreciate subtlety and finesse in switch design. On the other hand, the Ocean remains a bit of a mystery as there is no information provided about its specific qualities. While the Mallo may be appealing for those looking for a versatile switch that provides just the right amount of feedback, the Ocean's undisclosed features leave room for intrigue. 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
N/A
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Mallo and Outemu Ocean switches are quite similar, as both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of switches results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. With both switches featuring polycarbonate in their top housings, users can expect a similar sound profile and aesthetic experience when using either the Mallo or Ocean switches.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the KTT Mallo and Outemu Ocean switches differ, with the Mallo utilizing nylon while the Ocean also incorporates polycarbonate. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder typing experience. In contrast, the Ocean's polycarbonate bottom housing may provide a slightly sharper and crisper sound compared to the Mallo's nylon bottom housing. This difference in bottom housing material may impact the overall typing sound and feel of the switches.
While the top housings of the KTT Mallo and Outemu Ocean switches are both made of polycarbonate, the use of different materials for their bottom housings can lead to slight variations in typing sound and feel. The impact of the bottom housing material is more prominent during the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Users who prioritize a deeper and fuller sound profile may prefer the Mallo with its nylon bottom housing, while those looking for a sharper and crisper typing experience may lean towards the Ocean with its polycarbonate bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing sound and feel.
Weight
The KTT Mallo tactile switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light, while the actuation force is unknown. In comparison, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch has an actuation force of 55 grams and an unknown bottom out force. This means that the Mallo switch is lighter in terms of bottom out force, while the Ocean switch has a known actuation force. The actuation force of the Mallo is unknown, making it difficult to determine how it compares to the Ocean in this aspect. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the Mallo being lighter and potentially more comfortable for longer typing sessions, while the Ocean provides a stronger push feel for those looking for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch is the same, with both switches boasting a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users can expect to experience a consistent typing feel and feedback when using either switch. The 4 mm travel distance ensures that both switches offer a satisfying tactile response while typing, making them suitable choices for those who prefer a tactile feel when pressing down on keys. Whether you opt for the Mallo or the Ocean, you can rest assured that you will receive similar results in terms of travel distance and typing 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 Ocean 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 strikes a balance between actuation force and sound output. This makes it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Ocean switch is unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Mallo switch is described as feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle, providing a light and gentle typing experience with a subtle tactile feedback. This makes it comfortable for long typing sessions and suitable for shared spaces. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Ocean switch is unknown, so a comparison on this feature cannot be made at this time.
Taking all available information into consideration, the KTT Mallo switch seems to offer a versatile and balanced experience in terms of both sound and feel, making it a suitable choice for a wide range of users and typing environments. Without information on the sound and feel of the Outemu Ocean switch, it's difficult to say how it compares to the Mallo. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, you should choose the Mallo if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, subtle tactility, and a neutral sound signature. The Mallo offers a balanced typing experience that is gentle on your fingers and versatile for various typing environments. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with no specified bottom out force and unknown sound and feel characteristics, the Ocean may not provide the level of feedback and performance you desire. Ultimately, the Mallo stands out for its finesse in design and comfort in typing, making it a reliable choice for both beginners and advanced users.
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