KTT Mallo vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mallo and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream offer unique experiences for typists looking for different tactile feedback. The Mallo is praised for its subtle tactility and medium-light typing feel, making it a versatile choice for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch is known for its smooth and creamy feel, thanks to the ingenious use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing. While the Mallo switch provides a balanced and neutral typing experience, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers a buttery and high-pitched sound signature that sets it apart. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POK
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Mallo and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches offer distinct characteristics that affect the sound profile and typing experience. The Mallo's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a higher-pitched sound. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream's proprietary KTT blend top housing produces a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. While both offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the Mallo is specifically designed for RGB lighting due to its translucency, providing a visually appealing element.
On the other hand, the Mallo's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. The Nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound, offering a different typing experience compared to the POK bottom housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream. The POK material in the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is known for its smoothness, durability, and shock resistance, making it a top choice for those seeking a clacky and durable switch. The POK bottom housing contributes to the smoothness of the switch, enhancing the overall typing experience.
While the housing materials of the KTT Mallo and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches may differ in composition and sound characteristics, they both aim to provide an enhanced typing experience. The unique qualities of each housing material, whether it be polycarbonate, nylon, or POK, contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the switch. By understanding how each housing material affects the sound and feel of the switch, users can choose based on their preferences for sound, durability, and typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a personalized typing experience for users.
Weight
In comparing the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is clear that the Mallo is heavier in terms of bottom out force at 55 grams compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream's 48 grams. The actuation force of the Mallo is unknown, but the Vanilla Ice Cream's actuation force is lighter at 43 grams. This means that the Mallo may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a lighter touch that may be preferred for longer typing or gaming sessions. In both cases, the actuation and bottom out forces are different, so users can expect distinctly different typing experiences based on their preference for lighter or heavier switch weights.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is evident that the Mallo has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream's 3.5 mm travel distance. The difference may seem small, but it can have a noticeable impact on the typing or gaming experience. The Mallo offers a deeper press with its 4 mm travel distance, providing a more substantial feel when pressing the keys. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream's 3.5 mm travel distance offers a slightly shorter press, which might appeal to those looking for a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the depth of the press and the desired level of 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 KTT Vanilla Ice Cream has an MSRP of $5.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vanilla Ice Cream for $4.60.
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 tactile switch is known for its neutral and subdued sound profile, offering a moderate and subtle auditory experience that is suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch stands out with its high-pitched, marbly, and resonant sound signature, providing a sharp and crisp sound that sets it apart from the competition. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Mallo being more versatile and the Vanilla Ice Cream offering a distinct and pronounced auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the KTT Mallo tactile switch is characterized by its feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle typing experience, providing a light and gentle resistance that is comfortable for extended typing sessions. Conversely, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch is described as buttery and creamy, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience reminiscent of its dessert-inspired name. Both switches provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing feel, with the Mallo focusing on light actuation and balanced feedback, while the Vanilla Ice Cream emphasizes smoothness and uniformity in each keystroke.
In conclusion, the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Mallo provides a balanced and versatile experience with its neutral sound and gentle tactility, while the Vanilla Ice Cream stands out with its high-pitched sound and creamy feel. Whether you prefer a subtle and subdued typing experience or a sharp and marbly sound profile, both switches offer exceptional performance for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you prefer a light, feathery typing experience with subtle tactility and a neutral sound profile, the Mallo may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a smooth and buttery keystroke with a high-pitched, marbly sound signature, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing style and preferences. Whether you prioritize a gentle tactile feedback or a creamy typing sensation, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Mentioned in this article
