KTT Mallo vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Mallo and Outemu Spring Breeze mechanical keyboard switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences in typing experiences. The Mallo is praised for its subtle tactility and medium-light typing feel, making it a versatile choice for typists looking for a balanced and unobtrusive switch. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze, while lacking specific descriptors, is known for its clicky sound profile that provides audible feedback with each keystroke. When choosing between the two, the Mallo's feathery and mild characteristics might appeal to those seeking a gentle typing experience, while the Spring Breeze's clicky nature may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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 Spring Breeze, one key difference is the top housing material. The Mallo features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze uses a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While the Mallo's top housing is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Spring Breeze's nylon top housing offers a classic typing experience with a duller and rounder sound.
Another point of comparison between the Mallo and the Spring Breeze lies in their bottom housing materials. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, with the bottom-out sound and feel being impacted by the qualities of the nylon bottom housing.
Overall, while the top housing materials of the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Spring Breeze differ, their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing results in a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Mallo creates a sharper sound, while the softer nylon top housing of the Spring Breeze produces a deeper sound. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches offer a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Whether you prefer a crisper sound from the Mallo or a fuller sound from the Spring Breeze, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, we can see that the Mallo has an actuation force of None grams, while the Spring Breeze requires 40 grams of force to actuate. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 55 grams, making them equal in this aspect. This means that while the Mallo may feel lighter to initially press, both switches will require the same amount of force to fully depress the key. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mallo may be the better choice, as it has a lower actuation force. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze provides a slightly more tactile feedback with its higher actuation force, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of the physical travel of the switches. Both switches offer a moderate amount of key travel, providing a satisfying tactile feedback when pressed. This similarity means that users can expect similar levels of comfort and responsiveness when typing on keyboards equipped with either the Mallo or Spring Breeze switches. In conclusion, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a moderate travel distance of 4 mm.
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 Spring Breeze 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
Overall, the KTT Mallo tactile switch offers a subdued and feathery typing experience with a neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option for a wide range of typing environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch lacks specific information regarding its sound and feel qualities. As a result, it is difficult to make a direct comparison between the two switches in terms of subjective qualities. However, based on the characteristics of the Mallo switch, if the Spring Breeze switch offers similar subtlety and finesse in its design, users can expect a balanced and comfortable typing experience with a moderate sound profile. It is essential to consider personal preferences and typing habits when choosing between these two switches to ensure a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the KTT Mallo tactile switch or the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, it's important to focus on your preferences and typing needs. If you value subtlety and finesse in your typing experience, the Mallo with its medium-light bottom out force and gentle tactility may be the ideal choice for you. Its neutral sound signature and versatile feel make it suitable for various environments and typing styles. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a bit more feedback and a distinct sound profile, the Spring Breeze could be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are seeking. Consider your needs and preferences carefully before making your choice.
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