KTT Mallo vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mallo and the Akko V3 Piano Pro offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Mallo is celebrated for its subtle and refined tactility, providing just enough feedback without being overwhelming, making it a great choice for those who appreciate a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro stands out with its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, offering a lively and crisp quality to each keystroke. While the Mallo is categorized as feathery, mild, and neutral, the Piano Pro is described as bouncy, clacky, and creamy. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing preferences. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mallo and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. However, the Mallo features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This contrast in top housing material between the two switches showcases how the sound profiles can differ based on the materials used.
Although both switches have nylon bottom housing, the use of polycarbonate in the Mallo's top housing sets it apart from the V3 Piano Pro. The clear translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches with RGB lighting, while the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing contributes to a deeper sound experience. The split characteristics of the housing materials in each switch highlight how the qualities of the bottom housing impact the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Overall, the contrast in housing materials between the two switches results in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the KTT Mallo and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, both switches ultimately provide a unique typing experience. The use of polycarbonate in the Mallo's top housing creates a sharp and crisp sound, while the nylon bottom housing ensures a deep and full sound profile. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top and bottom housing materials contribute to a more rounded and dull sound, offering a different typing feel. Overall, the combination of different housing materials in each switch results in a variety of sound profiles and tactile experiences for users to enjoy.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, there are some notable differences. The Mallo has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it does not require any force to trigger a keystroke, while the V3 Piano Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, both switches have a bottom out force of 55 grams, making them medium-light in this aspect. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Mallo, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may prefer the V3 Piano Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it is clear that there is a difference in the distance traveled when pressing down on the switch. The Mallo has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the V3 Piano Pro has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the V3 Piano Pro has a shorter travel distance compared to the Mallo. The shorter travel distance of the V3 Piano Pro may appeal to those who prefer faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Mallo may be preferred by those who appreciate a more substantial depth when pressing down on the switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and responsiveness.
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 Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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 is known for its neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments without being too distracting. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is described as clacky and resonant, providing a lively and sharp sound that adds a unique auditory charm to each keystroke. These contrasting sound profiles cater to different preferences, with the Mallo offering a more versatile and understated sound, while the V3 Piano Pro delivers a more engaging and percussive experience.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Mallo switch is characterized by its feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle typing experience, offering a light and gentle tactile feedback that is comfortable for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch provides a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel, giving users a spring-like elastic feedback with a smooth and buttery typing sensation. These differences in tactile feedback cater to varying preferences, with the Mallo offering a softer and more subdued typing experience, while the V3 Piano Pro provides a more dynamic and polished feel.
In conclusion, the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mallo excels in providing a neutral and subtle sound profile paired with a feathery and mild typing feel, making it a versatile and comfortable choice for most users. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro stands out with its clacky and resonant sound signature combined with a bouncy and creamy typing experience, offering a more lively and polished feel for those looking for a dynamic typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and tactile feedback, ensuring that users can find the perfect switch to suit their typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Opt for the Mallo if you prefer a subtle tactility with a medium-light typing feel, coupled with a neutral sound signature that's versatile for different typing environments. The Mallo's feathery and mild feel can reduce finger fatigue and provide comfort for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, choose the V3 Piano Pro if you enjoy a snappy sound signature and a smooth actuation, resulting in a lively and crisp typing experience. The bouncy and creamy feel of the Piano Pro adds a unique tactile sensation to your typing. Ultimately, your choice should align with your preference for tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing comfort. Consider these factors to ensure a satisfying typing experience with either switch.
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