KTT Mallo vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Mallo and Gazzew U4 mechanical keyboard switches offer distinct tactile experiences for users to consider. The Mallo is renowned for its subtle tactility and medium-light typing feel, striking a balanced chord for typists seeking gentle feedback without overpowering sensations. On the other hand, the U4 stands out with a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump paired with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, providing a unique typing experience that is both tactile and quiet. While the Mallo boasts a neutral sound signature and a versatile design, the U4 is praised for its whisper-quiet profile and sharp tactile feedback. 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mallo and the Gazzew U4, it is evident that both switches offer unique characteristics that contribute to their sound profiles. The Mallo utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances resonance and clarity. On the other hand, the U4 features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known for delivering a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While the Mallo emphasizes clarity and sharpness, the U4 prioritizes depth and richness in sound.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Mallo incorporates a nylon material that promotes a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound compared to harder plastics. Conversely, the U4 also utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, which similarly delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Both switches benefit from the unique properties of their bottom housings, creating a distinct typing experience based on the materials used.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is essential to note that the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom of a switch. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, the combination of the polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Mallo, as well as the Gazzew blend top and bottom housings in the U4, results in a balanced and distinctive typing experience for users seeking a particular sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is evident that the Mallo has a lower actuation force of None grams compared to the U4's 45 grams. This means that the Mallo may feel lighter to type on initially. However, the Mallo's bottom out force of 55 grams is slightly lighter than the U4's 62 grams, making the U4 heavier when fully pressed. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Mallo for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial push may prefer the U4 for a more tactile typing feel. Overall, both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on personal preference for typing intensity.
Travel distance
The KTT Mallo tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Mallo has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the U4. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Mallo is more traditional, providing a deeper press feel, which some users may prefer. On the other hand, the 3.6 mm travel distance of the U4 is slightly shorter, making it ideal for those who prioritize faster response times, such as gamers. Both switches offer different travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference on which one to choose based on whether you prefer a deeper, more deliberate press (Mallo) or a shallower, quicker press (U4).
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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Mallo switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for various environments without being overly loud. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switch is described as having a muted and low-pitched sound, providing a quieter typing experience. Both switches aim to minimize noise, but the U4 seems to excel in creating a softer and bass-heavy tone compared to the Mallo's more moderate sound signature.
In terms of feel, the KTT Mallo switch is characterized by its feathery and mild typing experience, ensuring that typing for long durations remains comfortable and strain-free. Additionally, it is described as having a subtle tactile feedback, complementing the light actuation force. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 switch offers a sharp tactile bump that provides high feedback intensity with each keypress. This means that users who prefer a more pronounced tactile response may lean towards the U4 for a more distinct typing feel.
Overall, both the KTT Mallo and Gazzew U4 switches have their strengths in terms of sound and feel. While the Mallo offers a balanced and neutral sound, along with a gentle and comfortable typing experience, the U4 excels in providing a quiet and sharp tactile bump. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the subtlety of the Mallo or the intensity of the U4 to enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, both switches can deliver a satisfying and responsive typing experience, ensuring that newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world will have a solid foundation to build upon.
Conclusion
To sum up, both the KTT Mallo and the Gazzew U4 tactile switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a switch that provides a medium-light typing feel with a subtle tactile bump and a neutral sound signature, the Mallo would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharper tactile bump with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation and a muted, low-pitched sound profile, the U4 would be more suited to your liking. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and desired level of tactility when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable to you during your typing experience.
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