KTT Mallo vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique features catered to different preferences. The Mallo is renowned for its subtle tactility and medium-light typing feel, providing just enough feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Semi Mute is designed for those who prioritize a noise-free environment with its silent operation and advanced dampening technology for a comfortable typing experience. While the Mallo is more versatile with its neutral sound signature, the Semi Mute offers a buttery smooth typing 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
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Mallo and the KTT Semi Mute feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is great for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In terms of sound, both switches have similar qualities in their top housing material.
However, the key difference between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The Mallo utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to nylon's softer nature, it absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Semi Mute features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which maintains the sharper, higher-pitched sound profile characteristic of polycarbonate. This difference in bottom housing material will influence the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches.
When considering the impact of housing materials on typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of the bottom housing will affect the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing will impact the sound when releasing the key. The split between the bottom and top housing materials in each switch gives them unique characteristics that can cater to different preferences. Ultimately, whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound or a crisper, sharper sound will guide your choice between the KTT Mallo and the KTT Semi Mute.
Weight
The KTT Mallo tactile switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the KTT Semi Mute linear switch has a bottom out force of 58 grams, making the Semi Mute slightly heavier. The actuation force of the Mallo is unknown, while the Semi Mute has an actuation force of 43 grams. In terms of weight, the Mallo is lighter than the Semi Mute. Lighter switches are ideal for those who type for extended periods of time or engage in long gaming sessions, as they require less force to actuate. However, some users prefer a heavier switch for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a medium to medium-light tactile and linear typing experience respectively, providing users with a satisfying feel while typing.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users can expect a consistent feel when pressing down on keys with either switch. The 4 mm travel distance is relatively short compared to other switches on the market, which may provide a quicker typing experience. The similarity in travel distance between the Mallo and Semi Mute switches suggests that users can expect a similar typing feel and performance when using either switch. Overall, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance, making them suitable options for those looking for a more responsive typing experience.
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 Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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 offers a neutral and subdued experience, providing a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is muted and neutral, ensuring a quieter typing experience ideal for noise-free environments. Both switches provide a sound profile that is not overpowering, making them versatile choices for different preferences. Additionally, the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Mallo tactile switch offers a feathery and subtle typing experience, striking a balance between light actuation force and gentle resistance. This makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions and suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch provides a buttery and mild typing sensation, offering a smooth and effortless keystroke experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and gratifying typing feel, catering to different preferences for typing feedback.
In conclusion, the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mallo provides a more tactile and subdued sound profile with a feathery and subtle typing feel, the Semi Mute offers a quieter and buttery sound experience with a smooth and mild typing sensation. Depending on your preference for typing feedback and noise level, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you can achieve similar results with different subjective qualities. Ultimately, the choice between the Mallo and Semi Mute switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing environment.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a balanced typing experience with a gentle tactile feedback and a neutral sound profile that's versatile for different environments, the Mallo would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a noise-free typing experience with a linear actuation and advanced dampening technology for a comfortable and gratifying feel, the Semi Mute switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for tactility, sound, and typing feel, as both switches offer unique characteristics tailored to different preferences.
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