KTT Mallo vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Mallo tactile switch to the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it becomes apparent that they each offer unique qualities suited for different preferences. The Mallo stands out for its subtle tactility and medium-light typing feel, providing just enough feedback without being overwhelming. Its neutral sound signature makes it versatile for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow is known for its silent operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
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 Silent Yellow, both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of the plastic. This material is ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual appeal. However, the Mallo switches feature a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is absorbed more effectively by the softer plastic. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow also utilizes nylon for the bottom housing, offering similar benefits in terms of sound depth and absorption.
While the top housing of both the Mallo and Silent Yellow switches utilize polycarbonate for similar sound characteristics, the difference comes in the choice of bottom housing material. The nylon bottom housing of the Mallo provides a different typing experience compared to the Silent Yellow, with a deeper and fuller sound profile that is absorbed more effectively. This split in housing materials allows for a unique combination of sound qualities in each switch, impacting both the bottom-out sound and the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and sound profile.
In summary, the housing materials of the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Silent Yellow both offer distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. While they share the use of polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound, the difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Mallo's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Silent Yellow's nylon bottom housing offers similar benefits. The split in housing materials allows for a unique combination of sound qualities in each switch, impacting both the bottom-out sound and the sound upon key release. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics.
Weight
The KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch both have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Mallo has a lighter actuation force of None grams and a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Silent Yellow has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a heavy bottom out force of 80 grams. This means that the Mallo requires less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Silent Yellow, making it lighter in terms of typing feel. However, the Silent Yellow provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter feel of the Mallo for extended typing sessions, while others may favor the heavier push of the Silent Yellow for a more tactile typing experience. Both switches offer unique benefits in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to the diverse preferences of keyboard users.
Travel distance
The KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that they have the same distance that the switch travels from the top to the bottom, providing a similar tactile feel for users when pressing down on a key. Both switches offer consistency in their travel distance, ensuring a familiar typing experience. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is identical, resulting in comparable results for users seeking a consistent 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 Silent Yellow 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 has a neutral and subdued sound profile, making it a versatile option for various typing environments. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Mallo switch is characterized by a feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle typing experience. These qualities make it comfortable for extended typing sessions and provide a balanced feel that appeals to a wide range of users. As for the Outemu Silent Yellow switch, the feel is also unknown, so it's challenging to draw a direct comparison. However, based on the available information, it can be inferred that both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with different levels of resistance and tactile feedback.
Overall, the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mallo switch provides a balanced tactility and a neutral sound signature, the Silent Yellow switch remains a mystery in these aspects. If you enjoy a more subtle typing experience with a moderate sound profile, the Mallo switch would be a solid choice. In contrast, if you're looking for a quieter linear switch with unknown characteristics, the Silent Yellow switch might also provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have the potential to deliver a pleasant typing experience, although the specific qualities of the Silent Yellow switch are yet to be fully explored.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you value a gentle tactility, medium-light typing feel, and a neutral sound signature, then the Mallo switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force for a more robust typing experience without the tactile feedback, the Silent Yellow switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile. Choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and environment to enhance your overall typing experience.
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