KTT Mallo vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Mallo and the Gazzew U4Tx both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The KTT Mallo is praised for its gentle tactility and medium-light typing feel, making it a balanced choice for typists seeking a subtle feedback without overpowering noise. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx is designed to provide a refined sound profile with a deep "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out experience. While the Mallo is categorized as feathery, mild, and neutral, the U4Tx is noted for its bassy, muted, and sharp characteristics. Each switch offers a luxurious typing experience in its own right; 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
62.5g
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
Partial box
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 Korean spring
Housing materials
The KTT Mallo's housing materials of polycarbonate and nylon offer distinct features that contribute to its sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffness, while the nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housings use a soft plastic blend that delivers a rich and deep sound profile throughout. Both switches utilize softer plastics in their housing materials, but the Mallo splits these qualities between the top and bottom housings, while the U4Tx incorporates them into its proprietary blend for a consistent sound experience.
The polycarbonate top housing of the KTT Mallo is translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects, while the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing is specifically designed for a rich sound profile. The differences in material properties between the two switches extend to their bottom housings as well, with the Mallo's nylon bottom housing offering a deeper sound due to its softness, and the U4Tx's Gazzew blend bottom housing also delivering a rich and deep sound profile. While both switches prioritize sound quality in their housing materials, the Mallo focuses on creating a dynamic sound profile by utilizing different materials in the top and bottom housings, while the U4Tx achieves a consistent sound experience with its proprietary plastic blend.
In terms of user experience, the differences in housing materials between the KTT Mallo and the Gazzew U4Tx result in unique typing and sound experiences. The split between polycarbonate and nylon in the Mallo allows for a more nuanced sound profile, with the top housing contributing to the sound when a key is released, and the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the U4Tx's consistent use of a proprietary Gazzew blend throughout its housing materials ensures a rich and deep sound profile regardless of the typing action. Overall, both switches offer high-quality sound experiences, but the KTT Mallo's use of distinct housing materials provides a more dynamic sound profile compared to the consistent sound of the Gazzew U4Tx.
Weight
The KTT Mallo tactile switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, putting it in the medium range. Both switches have an actuation force of None grams, meaning they have a light initial press. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Mallo switch would be the better option, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without the potential for finger fatigue. On the other hand, the U4Tx switch would be favored by those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Mallo tactile switch is 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Mallo offering a slightly longer press than the U4Tx. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the U4Tx with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a deeper key press may lean towards the Mallo. Overall, while there is a slight difference in travel distance between the two switches, both offer a comfortable typing experience with responsive feedback.
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 U4Tx 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Mallo switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, providing a moderate and dampened sound when pressed. This makes it suitable for various environments and typing preferences, catering to a wide range of users. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switch boasts a bassy and muted sound, offering a deeper, richer tone during key presses while minimizing the overall noise typical of mechanical keyboards. Both switches excel in producing pleasant acoustics, with the Mallo leaning towards a more neutral and subtle sound, and the U4Tx delivering a bassy, muted experience.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Mallo switch is characterized by its feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle typing experience. With a light actuation force and gentle resistance, it provides a comfortable typing feel that reduces finger fatigue and is suitable for extended use. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx switch is known for its sharp tactile feedback, offering a high intensity and crisp tactile bump with each keypress. While the Mallo focuses on a gentle and light typing experience, the U4Tx delivers a distinct and pronounced tactile response, catering to users who prefer a more noticeable feedback sensation.
In conclusion, both the KTT Mallo and Gazzew U4Tx switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mallo provides a balanced and subtle typing experience with a neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the U4Tx delivers a more intense tactile feedback with a bassy, muted sound, catering to users who prefer a sharper tactile response and a deeper tone. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing comfort.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Mallo tactile switch or the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and typing needs. If you are looking for a switch with a gentler tactility and a more neutral sound profile that suits various typing environments, the Mallo may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a sharper tactile bump and a deeper, bassy sound profile, the U4Tx could be the perfect fit for your typing style. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so take into account your typing preferences and working environment when making your decision. Ultimately, choosing between the Mallo and U4Tx switches will depend on what typing experience you are looking for.