KTT Mallo vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mallo and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The KTT Mallo stands out for its subtle tactility and medium-light typing feel, providing just enough feedback without being overwhelming. Its neutral sound signature makes it a versatile choice for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is praised for its innovative semi-silent design, offering a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. The switch boasts a silky smooth feel that is not overly polished. Whether you prefer a feathery and subtle switch like the Mallo or a snappy and buttery one like the Semi-Silent Linear, each switch has its own strengths to consider. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Mallo and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear share the characteristic of using polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the clear nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, the Mallo stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Semi-Silent Linear's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a rounder and duller sound experience.
While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the differences lie in their bottom housing materials. The Mallo's nylon bottom housing creates a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Semi-Silent Linear's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a clearer and crisper sound. These distinct sound profiles can impact the overall typing experience, with the Mallo's nylon bottom housing providing a more muted and rounder sound compared to the Semi-Silent Linear's crisper sound.
The division of housing materials in switches like the KTT Mallo and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear allows for a nuanced typing experience. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material impacts the sound when a key is released. With the Mallo's combination of polycarbonate and nylon, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound on key presses, while the Semi-Silent Linear's all-polycarbonate construction offers a sharper and crisper sound overall. Ultimately, understanding the impact of different housing materials can help users tailor their typing experience to fit their preferences.
Weight
The KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch both have an actuation force of None grams, meaning that they will provide a similar experience when it comes to triggering a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Mallo requires 55 grams, making it lighter than the Semi-Silent Linear which requires 62 grams. The Mallo offers a medium-light bottom out force, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for long periods of time. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear provides a medium bottom out force, giving users a more substantial typing feel. When choosing between the two, users should consider whether they prefer a lighter typing experience for extended use or a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, we see that the Mallo has a travel distance of 4 mm while the Semi-Silent Linear has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances commonly found in mechanical keyboards. The Mallo's 4 mm travel distance provides a bit more depth compared to the Semi-Silent Linear's 3.7 mm, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Semi-Silent Linear may be preferred by gamers looking for quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Mallo offering a longer travel distance and the Semi-Silent Linear providing a slightly shorter one.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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, both the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch are described as having a subdued sound profile. The Mallo offers a neutral sound signature that doesn't overpower, while the Semi-Silent Linear maintains a whisper-quiet topping-out sound. This makes both switches suitable for various typing environments, whether at home or in a shared workspace. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Mallo switch is described as feathery and mild, offering a gentle typing experience with little exertion required. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is categorized as mild and snappy, providing a smooth and responsive typing sensation. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, making them suitable for extended use during activities like gaming, work, or school.
Overall, the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch offer subtle sound profiles and comfortable typing experiences. While the Mallo leans towards a feathery and mild feel, the Semi-Silent Linear provides a snappy and buttery typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer a balanced and versatile option for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. If you enjoy a subdued sound and gentle typing experience, you can expect similar results from both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-light typing feel with gentle tactility and a neutral sound signature that strikes a balanced chord for various typing environments, the Mallo switch is the way to go. It offers a feathery and mild typing experience that reduces finger fatigue and provides a comfortable typing session. On the other hand, if you appreciate a whisper-quiet topping-out sound with a clacky bottom-out sound, opt for the Semi-Silent Linear switch. It offers a silky smooth type feel and a subdued sound signature that is suitable for most intents and purposes. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for typing feel, sound, and overall experience.
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