KTT Mallo vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Mallo and the KTT Phalaenopsis mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Mallo is praised for its subtle tactility and medium-light typing feel, providing a balanced experience for typists in various typing environments. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis stands out for its light actuation force and satisfying tactile bump, making typing effortless and enjoyable, while minimizing finger fatigue. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the Mallo being more neutral and subdued, and the Phalaenopsis having a more impactful and thocky 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
37g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Mallo and the KTT Phalaenopsis both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, creating a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, the Mallo switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, providing a unique typing experience.
While the top housing of the Mallo and Phalaenopsis switches is similar due to both being made of polycarbonate, the difference lies in their bottom housing material. The nylon bottom housing of the Mallo offers a softer typing experience with a deeper sound profile, contrasting with the crisper and higher-pitched sound of the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing. This variance in material affects the overall typing feel and sound of the switches, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. However, both switches benefit from the properties of polycarbonate in the top housing, emphasizing clarity and resonance in sound production.
The split between top and bottom housing materials in the KTT Mallo and Phalaenopsis switches highlights the impact each material has on the overall typing experience. The differences in sound profiles between the nylon and polycarbonate bottom housings contribute to distinct tactile and auditory feedback when pressing down on the switches. The top housing material, whether polycarbonate in both cases, impacts the sound when releasing a key, enhancing the overall typing performance. These variations in housing materials offer users the opportunity to tailor their typing experience to their specific preferences, whether they prefer a sharper sound or a softer, more rounded tone.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it is evident that the Phalaenopsis is the lighter of the two. The Mallo has an actuation force of None grams, making it difficult to determine the exact force required, and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it the lighter option between the two. The actuation force of a switch is crucial for triggering keystrokes, while the bottom out force indicates the pressure needed to press a key all the way down. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Phalaenopsis, while those who seek a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Mallo. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing comfort and performance.
Travel distance
The KTT Mallo and KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switches both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. In terms of tactile feedback and key press experience, users can expect similar results from both switches due to their identical travel distances. This makes them suitable choices for those who prefer a consistent typing experience without any significant differences in 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 KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Mallo switch boasts a neutral and subdued sound profile, thanks to its moderate actuation force requirement. This makes it suitable for a wide range of users and environments, striking a balance between being noticeable without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile, bringing a deeper and richer sound to each key press. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a more subtle sound with the Mallo or a more pronounced sound with the Phalaenopsis.
In terms of feel, both the Mallo and Phalaenopsis switches offer a stepped typing experience, providing a more gentle and approachable typing feel compared to switches with stronger tactile characteristics. The Mallo switch is described as feathery, mild, and subtle, emphasizing its light actuation force and comfortable typing experience suitable for extended use. Similarly, the Phalaenopsis switch also falls under the stepped category, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable typing experience with its light actuation force of 37g.
In conclusion, both the KTT Mallo and Phalaenopsis switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user preferences. While the Mallo excels in providing a balanced and versatile sound profile with a medium-light typing feel, the Phalaenopsis stands out with its emphasis on a bassy sound profile and effortless typing experience. Users can expect a pleasant and satisfying typing experience with either switch, depending on whether they prioritize a subtle sound and feathery feel or a rich sound and light actuation force. Ultimately, both options provide quality and variety for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when selecting between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, consider the level of tactile feedback and bottom out force that best suits your typing preferences. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a balanced tactility that is neither too intense nor too subtle, the Mallo switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter bottom out force with a more pronounced tactile bump for a delightful typing experience, the Phalaenopsis switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences to ensure an optimal typing experience.
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