KTT Mallo vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mallo and Gazzew U4T offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Mallo is praised for its subtle and refined tactile feedback, providing just the right amount of feedback for typists who appreciate a gentle typing experience. Additionally, its neutral sound signature makes it a versatile option for various typing environments. On the other hand, the U4T stands out for its combination of thockiness and sharp tactility, offering a satisfying bassy 'thock' sound profile with assertive tactile feedback. While both switches have their own strengths, such as the feathery and mild qualities of the Mallo and the bassy and thocky characteristics of the U4T, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mallo and the Gazzew U4T, we can see that both switches incorporate unique materials to enhance sound profiles. The Mallo utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the U4T features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known for its rich and deep sound profile attributed to its softness. While both materials aim to enhance sound quality, the polycarbonate top housing of the Mallo is likely to provide a more defined and resonant sound, whereas the Gazzew blend top housing of the U4T may offer a softer and more mellow tone.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Mallo employs a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Similarly, the U4T incorporates a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, also known for delivering a rich and deep sound profile attributed to its softness. Both switches utilize materials that aim to absorb sound and create a more rounded sound, resulting in a more pleasant typing experience. The differences in material composition may lead to variations in sound characteristics, with the softer nylon bottom housing of the Mallo likely offering a more dull and round sound compared to the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4T.
Overall, while the KTT Mallo and the Gazzew U4T both aim to enhance sound profiles through their unique housing materials, they each offer distinct characteristics. The polycarbonate top housing of the Mallo is likely to deliver a crisper and sharper sound profile, while the Gazzew blend top housing of the U4T may provide a richer and deeper tone. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Mallo may produce a deeper and fuller sound, contrasted with the proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4T, which offers a rich and deep sound experience. Despite these differences, both switches aim to optimize sound quality for an improved typing experience.
Weight
The KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer different experiences when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The Mallo has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light, while the U4T has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. This means that the U4T requires a slightly heavier touch to fully press the key compared to the Mallo. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Mallo may be the better option for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the U4T may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Both switches have a None gram actuation force, so users can expect similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity in travel distance suggests that the typing experience provided by these switches will be comparable in terms of keypress feel and feedback. Since both switches have the same travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience, with neither switch having a shorter or longer travel distance than the other.
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 U4T 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 that is suitable for a wide range of typing environments. Its moderate sound profile strikes a balance between being noticeable without being too loud, making it a versatile option for various settings. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switch is characterized by its bassy and thocky sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. The U4T's sound is rich and distinct, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced sound feedback during typing.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Mallo switch is known for its feathery and mild typing experience, offering a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The switch provides a comfortable and approachable typing feel, making it suitable for various usage scenarios. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T switch is distinguished by its sharp tactile feedback, providing a high intensity feedback with a strong and crisp tactile bump in each keypress. The U4T offers a more pronounced tactile response, making it a preferred choice for those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Mallo and Gazzew U4T switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mallo provides a subtle and balanced sound profile with a gentle typing feel, the U4T delivers a rich and pronounced sound feedback paired with a sharp tactile response. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the typing experience one is looking to achieve. Whether you prefer a neutral and subtle typing experience (found in the Mallo) or a bassy and sharp tactile feedback (found in the U4T), both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience in either case.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when choosing between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter typing feel and a more neutral sound signature, the KTT Mallo would be a great choice for you. Its subtle tactility and medium-light bottom out force make it versatile for various typing environments. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback and a bassy 'thock' sound profile, the Gazzew U4T may be more suited to your preferences. The U4T's medium-heavy bottom out force and sharp tactility provide a satisfying typing experience with each keypress. Consider your typing preferences and environment when deciding between these two switches to ensure you choose the one that best fits your needs.
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