KTT Mallo vs. KTT Peach
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the KTT Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, it is evident that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Mallo switch is celebrated for its subtle tactility and medium-light typing feel, providing just enough feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Peach switch boasts a smooth typing experience and a deep, thocky sound profile that appeals to those seeking a quieter option. While the Mallo switch is versatile and balanced, the Peach switch offers a more pronounced sound 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
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The KTT Mallo and KTT Peach both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profiles. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance in sound production. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share the same material for their top housing, the differences in their bottom housings can affect the overall typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing material, the Mallo and Peach both feature nylon, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This material plays a significant role in the overall typing experience of a switch, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of each keystroke. Despite differences in top housing materials, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a consistent typing experience between the Mallo and Peach switches.
The distinct combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Mallo and Peach switches showcases how varying materials can influence sound profiles and typing experiences. While polycarbonate creates a sharp and clear sound, nylon adds depth and fullness to the overall sound profile. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows users to feel the impact of each material during different stages of typing, enhancing the tactile and auditory feedback of the switches. Ultimately, the similarities in housing materials between the Mallo and Peach ensure that users can achieve comparable results in sound and feel, despite any differences in design or aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, it is evident that the Peach requires slightly more force for actuation at 45 grams compared to the Mallo's None grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Mallo requiring 55 grams and the Peach requiring 53 grams. In terms of weight, the Mallo could be considered slightly lighter due to its lack of actuation force, allowing for smoother keystrokes. On the other hand, the Peach offers a slightly more substantial typing experience with a slightly higher actuation force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and desired actuation force.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. The similarity in travel distance between these two switches ensures that users will get consistent feedback and tactile response regardless of which switch they choose. Overall, both the Mallo and Peach switches offer a comfortable and satisfying typing experience with their identical travel distances.
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 KTT Peach comes in at $2.91 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 a variety of typing environments without being too overpowering. On the other hand, the KTT Peach switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound, giving it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement, ensuring a versatile sound experience depending on your preference and setup.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Mallo switch is characterized by its feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle qualities, providing a light, gentle typing experience with minimal finger fatigue. The KTT Peach switch, on the other hand, offers a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users, falling within a safe, middle-ground zone of tactile feedback. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience for extended periods, whether for gaming, school, or work.
Overall, the KTT Mallo switch excels in offering a balanced tactile feedback with a neutral sound signature, ideal for those looking for a versatile switch that doesn't overpower the typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Peach switch focuses on providing a smooth typing experience with a deep, thocky sound profile, catering to users who prefer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Depending on your preference for tactile feedback and sound characteristics, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, consider your preferences for tactility and sound. If you value a subtle tactile feedback with a neutral sound profile, the Mallo switch would be an excellent choice for a balanced typing experience suitable for various environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth linear feel with a low-pitched thocky sound, the Peach switch would provide a syrupy typing experience with a mellow tone. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific typing environment you'll be using the keyboard in.