KTT Mallo vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mallo and TTC Silent Red offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The KTT Mallo is praised for its subtle tactility and medium-light typing feel, providing just enough feedback without overpowering the user. Its neutral sound signature makes it a versatile option for various typing environments. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red is renowned for its smooth and seamless typing experience, with a muted sound profile that is ideal for office or shared living spaces. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that make them appealing choices for different needs. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Mallo and TTC Silent Red both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This results in a clear and resonant sound when typing on either of these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, the differences may lie in their bottom housings, where the Mallo uses nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Silent Red also utilizes nylon for a similar effect.
The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both the Mallo and Silent Red switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. This difference in bottom housing material may impact the overall typing experience and sound produced by each switch, even though they both share the same top housing material of polycarbonate. Ultimately, the choice between the two may come down to personal preference for sound and feel.
In terms of functionality, the split between the top and bottom housings of the Mallo and Silent Red switches will determine the overall typing experience. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer a combination of materials that bring unique qualities to the typing experience, with polycarbonate providing a clear and resonant sound in the top housing, and nylon offering a deeper and fuller sound in the bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between the Mallo and Silent Red switches may depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The KTT Mallo tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Mallo has an actuation force of None grams, making it extremely light, while the Silent Red requires 45 grams of force for actuation. In terms of bottom out force, the Mallo needs 55 grams, which is considered medium-light, whereas the Silent Red has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Mallo due to its lower actuation force, which can be beneficial for long typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Silent Red offers a more substantial typing feel with its heavier bottom out force, appealing to users who prefer a bit more resistance when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Mallo tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Silent Red switch has the shorter travel distance compared to the Mallo switch. The 0.3 mm may not seem like a significant difference, but it can impact the overall feel and response of the keyboard. Gamers looking for a faster response time might prefer the shorter travel distance of the Silent Red switch, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Mallo switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and keypress feel.
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 TTC Silent Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 suitable for various settings without being too overpowering. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is described as producing a muted sound, perfect for quiet environments like offices or shared living spaces. Overall, if you prefer a switch with a more subtle sound signature, the Mallo would be a good choice, while the Silent Red is ideal for those looking for a quieter typing experience.
In terms of feel, the KTT Mallo tactile switch offers a feathery and mild typing experience, making it comfortable for long typing sessions while still providing a gentle tactility. It is also described as having a stepped and subtle feel, adding to the overall typing experience. Conversely, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is known for its buttery and mild feel, providing a smooth and effortless keystroke experience. With a polished finish, these switches offer reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you prefer a switch with a light and comfortable feel, the Mallo would be a great choice, while the Silent Red is perfect for those seeking a seamless and uniform typing sensation.
In conclusion, the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mallo provides a balanced and versatile typing experience with a neutral sound profile and a feathery feel, while the Silent Red delivers a quiet and seamless typing experience with a muted sound and buttery feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer quality performance, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your typing preferences and environment. If you value a gentle tactility with a medium-light typing feel and a neutral sound signature, the Mallo switch would be a great choice for versatility in various typing situations. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and seamless typing experience with a muted sound profile, especially in office or shared living spaces, the Silent Red switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences in terms of typing feel and sound profile. Make the choice that best aligns with your typing style and environment to enhance your overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
