KTT Mallo vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mallo and the Akko V3 Silver Pro offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. The Mallo stands out for its gentle tactility and medium-light typing feel, making it a versatile choice for typists looking for a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro is designed for gamers, offering a smooth keystroke, pleasing bassy sound, and light actuation force for a competitive edge. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The KTT Mallo and the Akko V3 Silver Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Mallo uses a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. The split between the top and bottom housing materials in the Mallo means that the typing experience will be a combination of the qualities of both materials.
In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro also features a polycarbonate top housing for a clear and resonant sound profile similar to the Mallo. However, the V3 Silver Pro also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the Mallo's nylon bottom housing. The split in housing materials in the V3 Silver Pro will result in a typing experience that includes qualities of both the polycarbonate and nylon materials. Overall, both keyboards offer a unique combination of materials that affect the sound and feel of typing.
While the KTT Mallo and the Akko V3 Silver Pro have differences in their housing materials, they both prioritize creating a high-quality sound profile for users. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both keyboards leads to a sharper and crisper sound, while the presence of nylon in the bottom housing adds depth and fullness. Whether you prefer a more resonant sound with the Mallo's nylon bottom housing or a duller sound with the V3 Silver Pro's nylon bottom housing, both keyboards offer a unique typing experience that will cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Mallo requires a lighter actuation force of None grams compared to the V3 Silver Pro's 40 grams. This means that the Mallo may provide a quicker response time when typing or gaming. However, the Mallo has a higher bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly heavier than the V3 Silver Pro with a bottom out force of 45 grams. This difference in bottom out force may result in a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a bit more resistance. Overall, the Mallo offers a lighter actuation force but heavier bottom out force compared to the V3 Silver Pro, providing users with the option to choose based on their preference for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, we can see that the Mallo has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the V3 Silver Pro has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Mallo offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more traditional key press feel with a bit more depth. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro provides a shorter travel distance, which could be ideal for gamers seeking faster response times. Both switches offer different travel distances that cater to varying preferences, with the Mallo being the longer option and the V3 Silver Pro being the slightly shorter option. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference for key press feel 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 Silver 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 Silver 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 most environments without being too overpowering. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offers a high-pitched sound that may appeal to gamers looking for a sharp and crisp sound with each keystroke. It's important to note that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Mallo switch is described as feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle, providing a gentle typing experience with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue. Conversely, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch offers an easy-to-press and creamy feel, with a smooth and buttery typing experience that enhances comfort during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the polished and silky characteristics of the V3 Silver Pro switch contribute to a refined and sleek typing feel.
Overall, the KTT Mallo tactile switch emphasizes subtlety and finesse with a balanced tactility and medium-light typing feel, making it versatile for various typing tasks. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is engineered for gamers, offering a light actuation force and shortened travel distance for quick and effortless keystrokes. Both switches provide unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preferences and intended usage.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and intended use. If you value a balanced typing experience with subtle tactility and a neutral sound profile, the Mallo may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a gamer seeking a fast and responsive switch with a pleasing bassy sound and easy-to-press feel, the V3 Silver Pro could be the better option. Consider your typing style, environment, and desired sound and feel characteristics to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different needs and preferences in the vast world of mechanical keyboards.
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