KTT Mallo vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mallo and KTT Wine Red offer unique characteristics to cater to different preferences. The Mallo switch is hailed for its subtle tactility and medium-light typing feel, providing just enough feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch boasts a pillowy light type feel and a deep, rich sound profile, making it a satisfying option for those who enjoy a bassy and low-pitched typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different user preferences. 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
44g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
In comparing the KTT Mallo and KTT Wine Red, we can see that both keyboards have a polycarbonate top housing. This means that both keyboards will have a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when keys are pressed. The use of polycarbonate in top housings is especially beneficial for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, due to its translucency. However, the Mallo has a nylon bottom housing, which will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the Wine Red features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which will contribute to a sharper and clearer sound profile.
One key difference between the two keyboards is in their bottom housing materials. The Mallo's nylon bottom housing will absorb more sound due to its softer nature, creating a duller and rounder sound when compared to the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Wine Red. This means that the bottom-out sound and feel when typing on the Mallo will be different from that of the Wine Red. However, both keyboards share the same polycarbonate top housing, so the sound profile when releasing a key will be similar on both keyboards.
Overall, the use of different housing materials in the KTT Mallo and KTT Wine Red provides a unique typing experience for users. While both keyboards share a polycarbonate top housing, the difference in bottom housing materials results in varying sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing of the Mallo offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Wine Red provides a sharper and crisper sound. This demonstrates how the choice of housing materials can impact the overall typing experience on mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, we can see that the Mallo has a lighter actuation force compared to the Wine Red. The Mallo has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it requires very little force to trigger a keystroke, while the Wine Red has an actuation force of 44 grams. Both switches have the same bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light. This means that while the Mallo may be easier to actuate, both switches will feel similar when fully pressed down. Users who prefer lighter actuation forces may prefer the Mallo for extended typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a slightly heavier actuation force may lean towards the Wine Red for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. This makes them ideal for users who prefer a consistent tactile experience while typing or gaming. The equal travel distance ensures that you will get similar results when using either switch, making it a matter of personal preference between a tactile or linear switch rather than differences in 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 KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71 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, perfect for a variety of typing environments without being too overpowering. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switch provides a bassy and low-pitched sound that brings a satisfyingly deep and rich auditory experience while typing. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used, so both switches can offer similar results depending on the setup.
In terms of feel, the KTT Mallo switch provides a feathery and mild typing experience, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. It also offers a subtle tactile feedback that strikes a nice balance for typists. On the other hand, information on the feel of the KTT Wine Red switch is unknown. However, based on its pillowy light typing feel described, it may offer a smooth and pleasant typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Mallo switch and the KTT Wine Red switch each bring unique qualities to the table. The Mallo excels in providing a balanced tactile feedback and a versatile neutral sound profile, while the Wine Red stands out with its deep and rich sound profile paired with a pillowy light type feel. Depending on personal preference and typing environment, either switch can offer a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a balanced typing experience with just the right amount of tactile feedback and a neutral sound profile, the KTT Mallo tactile switch is the way to go. It provides a medium-light typing feel that is comfortable for extended typing sessions and versatile for various environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a pillowy light typing feel with a deep and rich sound profile that resonates with bass tones, then the KTT Wine Red linear switch is the perfect choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a subtle and versatile typing experience (Mallo) or a satisfyingly rich and bassy sound profile (Wine Red).
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