KTT Mallo vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Mallo, a tactile switch, to the Outemu Red, a linear switch, it quickly becomes apparent that each offers a unique typing experience. The Mallo is renowned for its subtle tactility, providing just the right amount of feedback without being overwhelming. This switch is ideal for those looking for a medium-light typing feel and a neutral sound signature that blends seamlessly into any typing environment. On the other hand, the Outemu Red lacks specific standout features but offers a smooth and consistent linear typing experience. While the Mallo excels in providing a balanced and versatile typing experience, the Red offers a straightforward and reliable option for those who prefer the linear switch feel. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 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
The housing materials of the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Red switches both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, providing a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both switches creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound and producing a duller and rounder sound. This classic switch housing material contributes to the overall typing experience by enhancing the sound and feel of bottom-out keystrokes.
Despite the similarities in using polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, there are distinct differences in the sound profiles each material produces on the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Red switches. The polycarbonate top housing of both switches delivers a sharper and crisper sound, enhancing the overall typing experience with its clear and resonant qualities. Meanwhile, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, creating a more muted and rounder tone. These differences in sound profiles can greatly impact the user's typing experience, depending on their preference for sound and feel when using the switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Red switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel. While both switches share similar housing materials with polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, the qualities of each material manifest differently in the overall sound profile of the switches. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound profile with the KTT Mallo or a deeper and fuller sound profile with the Outemu Red, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. It's essential to consider how the housing materials contribute to the sound and feel of the switches in order to make an informed decision based on your individual typing preferences.
Weight
The KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch have differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Mallo has a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Red has a bottom out force of 62 grams, making the Red slightly heavier in this aspect. However, the actuation force of the Mallo is not specified, whereas the Red has an actuation force of 46 grams. The actuation force is crucial as it determines the force needed to trigger a keystroke. In terms of weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Red for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may favor the heavier bottom out force of the Mallo for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two, they both provide a similar tactile feel and actuation force despite belonging to different switch types. This means that regardless of whether you choose the Mallo or the Red switch, you can expect a consistent travel distance that provides a satisfying typing experience. However, if we were to nitpick, the Mallo may have a slightly shorter actuation distance compared to the Outemu Red, which could result in a slightly faster typing speed for some users. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference rather than their travel distance.
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 Red 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 tactile switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile that is not overpowering. This makes it suitable for a variety of typing environments, whether you're a beginner or advanced user. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch's sound characteristics are unknown, but keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the type of keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Mallo provides a feathery and mild typing experience that is easy on the fingers and reduces fatigue during long typing sessions. The switch also offers a subtle tactile feedback that is not overly pronounced. In comparison, the feel of the Outemu Red linear switch is not known, so it's important to consider how different factors such as actuation force and keycap material can affect the overall typing feel.
Taking all of this information into consideration, it appears that the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mallo offers a balanced and versatile typing experience with gentle tactility and a neutral sound profile, the qualities of the Red switch remain unknown. It's important to consider your personal preferences and typing needs when choosing between these two switches, and keep in mind that your choice of keyboard and keycaps can also impact the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the Mallo and Red switches may provide similar results depending on your individual preferences and usage scenarios.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a switch with a gentle tactile feedback and a medium-light typing feel, the Mallo would be a great choice for you. Its neutral sound signature and subtle tactility make it suitable for various typing environments without being overpowering. On the other hand, if you prioritize a medium typing feel without tactile feedback, the Red switch might be more up your alley. With its medium bottom out force and linear design, the Red offers a smooth typing experience without any tactile bump. Consider your typing style and preferences when choosing between these two switches to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
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