KTT Mallo vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mallo and Jwick Splash Brothers offer distinct experiences for typists. The Mallo is praised for its subtle tactility and medium-light typing feel, providing a balanced and versatile option for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers, inspired by the dynamic duo Steph and Klay, offer a linear "speed" switch with a shorter activation and a creamy sound signature. While the Mallo leans towards a more subdued and neutral typing experience, the Splash Brothers provide a snappier and bouncier 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Extended long spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Mallo and Jwick Splash Brothers feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate. This material is known for its clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, the difference lies in the nylon bottom housing of each switch. The Mallo's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Splash Brothers, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite both switches having polycarbonate top housings that offer similar sound profiles, the varying bottom housings bring distinct qualities to each switch. The tactile feel and sound when pressing down on the switch will be influenced by the nylon bottom housing, with the Mallo providing a deeper and fuller sound experience compared to the Splash Brothers. On the other hand, the impact on sound when releasing a key will be more heavily influenced by the polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound for both switches.
In essence, while the KTT Mallo and Jwick Splash Brothers share similar polycarbonate top housings that create sharp and clear sound profiles, the difference lies in their respective nylon bottom housings. Each switch offers a unique typing experience based on the characteristics of their bottom housing material, with the Mallo providing a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Splash Brothers. Ultimately, the combination of these two housing materials contributes to the overall typing experience and sound profile of each switch.
Weight
The KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Mallo has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light. In comparison, the Splash Brothers has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, which is lighter than the Mallo. This means that the Splash Brothers switch requires less force to bottom out compared to the Mallo. When considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch like the Splash Brothers for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer a heavier switch for a more substantial typing experience like the Mallo. Overall, 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, which is considered a more traditional depth, while the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Mallo offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a more satisfying depth when pressed. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches offer their own advantages based on personal preference, with the Mallo offering a slightly longer, more traditional travel distance and the Splash Brothers offering a shorter, more modern feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance.
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 Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 per 10 switches.
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, both the KTT Mallo and Jwick Splash Brothers switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various typing environments. The Mallo offers a more subdued sound, providing a dampened sound when pressed, while the Splash Brothers give off a creamy sound signature. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Mallo switches are described as feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle, offering a light typing experience with gentle resistance. This makes them comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switches are described as mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth key travel. Overall, both switches offer a pleasant typing feel, with the Mallo focusing more on lightness and subtlety, while the Splash Brothers emphasize responsiveness and rebound.
In conclusion, both the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a switch with a more subdued sound and a feathery typing feel, the Mallo would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a switch with a creamy sound and a snappy, bouncy feel, the Splash Brothers might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Mallo tactile switch or the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, you should take into account your preference for typing feel and sound. If you prioritize a gentle tactility and subtle sound profile, the Mallo switch would be an excellent choice for you. Its medium-light bottom out force and feathery typing feel make it comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a shorter activation and a creamy sound signature, the Splash Brothers linear switch might be more to your liking. With its light bottom out force and snappy feel, it offers a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for.
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