KTT Mallo vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, the decision ultimately boils down to personal preferences and typing style. The Mallo is praised for its subtle tactility that offers just the right amount of feedback without being overwhelming, making it a great choice for typists who prefer a medium-light typing feel. Additionally, its neutral sound signature ensures versatility in various typing environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver switch is known for its linear keypress without any tactile bump, providing a smooth and consistent typing experience. While the Mallo is categorized as feathery, mild, neutral, stepped, subdued, and subtle, the Silver lacks specific descriptors. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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 Outemu Silver switches have some similarities, as they both use polycarbonate for the top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Mallo utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder tone due to its softer nature. In contrast, the Silver also employs nylon for its bottom housing, providing similar sound characteristics to the Mallo in that regard.
One key point of comparison between the KTT Mallo and Outemu Silver switches is how the qualities of the housing materials are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. For switches with different materials for the top and bottom housings, each material will have a distinct impact on the sound and feel of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing material will be more noticeable, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing material will have a greater effect on the sound produced when releasing a key. In this aspect, both the Mallo and Silver switches showcase a balance between the properties of their top and bottom housing materials.
Overall, while the KTT Mallo and Outemu Silver switches share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, they differ in the material used for the bottom housing. The Mallo's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller tone, while the Silver also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, providing similar sound characteristics. Understanding how the qualities of the housing materials are distributed in a switch can help users appreciate the unique sound and feel each switch offers based on its construction.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, we can see that the Mallo has a lighter actuation force of None grams compared to the Silver's 45 grams. The bottom out force of the Mallo is also lighter at 55 grams, while the Silver has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. The Mallo offers a medium-light typing experience, while the Silver provides a medium-heavy feel. This means that the Mallo would be preferred for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, while the Silver would be suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. In both cases, users can expect to receive similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that both switches will offer a similar experience in terms of key press feel and actuation. With a consistent travel distance of 4mm, users can expect a comparable typing experience regardless of which switch they choose. Both switches provide a moderate travel distance that strikes a balance between key responsiveness and key travel, making them suitable for a variety of typing and gaming preferences. Whether you prefer the tactile feedback of the Mallo or the smooth linear feel of the Silver, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a familiar 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 Silver 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, making it suitable for various typing environments without drawing too much attention. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver switch's sound characteristics are not specified. Depending on the choice of keyboard and keycaps, both switches can provide a similar sound experience if paired accordingly.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the KTT Mallo switch is known for its feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle qualities, offering a light and gentle typing experience with subtle tactile feedback. This makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions and suitable for shared spaces. Unfortunately, the specific feeling of the Outemu Silver switch is not provided. However, with its linear nature, it may offer a straightforward and consistent typing feel that could be preferred by users seeking a smooth keystroke without tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the KTT Mallo switch stands out for its balanced tactility, light typing feel, versatile sound signature, and comfort for extended use. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Silver switch remain unknown, it is likely to offer a linear typing experience with a potentially different sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on the user's preference for tactile feedback, typing feel, and sound characteristics to match their specific typing needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you prefer a medium-light typing experience with subtle tactility and a neutral sound signature, the Mallo switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a linear switch that does not offer any tactile feedback, the Silver switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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