KTT Mallo vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mallo and the KTT Pine offer two distinct experiences for typists. The Mallo is praised for its subtle tactility and medium-light typing feel, providing just the right amount of feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Pine boasts a smooth, buttery typing experience with its medium-heavy build and factory-lubed finish for minimal friction. While the Mallo is versatile and balanced, the Pine offers a creamy and low-pitched typing 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
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mallo and the KTT Pine, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, adding a visual element to the auditory experience. However, the key difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Mallo features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. In contrast, the Pine utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, resulting in a sharper and more resonant sound profile.
While both the KTT Mallo and the KTT Pine share a polycarbonate top housing, the bottom housing materials provide distinct characteristics to each switch. The Mallo's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile, while the Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing leads to a clearer and sharper sound. It is interesting to note how the bottom housing material can impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, with the Mallo emphasizing depth and fullness and the Pine focusing on clarity and resonance. This distinction highlights the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the KTT Mallo and the KTT Pine play a significant role in shaping the sound profile and overall performance of these switches. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The Mallo's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper sound profile, while the Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound. This contrast demonstrates how different housing materials can influence the typing experience, highlighting the importance of considering both top and bottom housing materials when choosing a switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, some differences and similarities can be noted. The Mallo has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it does not require a specific force to trigger a keystroke, while the Pine has an actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Mallo has a force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light, while the Pine has a bottom out force of 58 grams, also falling in the medium range. This makes the Pine slightly heavier in terms of actuation force but similar in terms of bottom out force compared to the Mallo. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the KTT Mallo, while those seeking a slightly heavier push feel may lean towards the KTT Pine for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in that aspect. When comparing the two switches, their travel distances are identical, so the user will experience a similar tactile feedback and typing experience regardless of which switch is used. This means that whether you choose the Mallo tactile switch or the Pine linear switch, you can expect to receive consistent and reliable keypress feedback. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that users will have a consistent typing experience no matter which switch they choose.
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 Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine 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 tactile switch is known for its neutral and subdued sound profile, making it a versatile option for various settings without being too overpowering. In contrast, the KTT Pine linear switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound that provides a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the typing experience based on personal preferences and the environment in which they are used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Mallo tactile switch is described as feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle, offering a light typing feel that reduces finger fatigue and provides gentle feedback throughout the keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch is known for its buttery and creamy feel, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal friction and a polished finish. Both switches offer distinct tactile and typing experiences that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Overall, the KTT Mallo and KTT Pine switches offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mallo switch provides a balanced and subtle typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Pine switch offers a smoother and more buttery typing feel with a bassy sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, ensuring that both options provide satisfying results for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a subtle tactility and a neutral sound profile, the Mallo switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth keystroke and a low-pitched, bassy sound profile, the Pine switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and environment to ensure the best match for your needs and preferences.
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