KTT Mallo vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mallo's tactile design and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear's linear design offer distinctive typing experiences. The KTT Mallo switches are praised for their subtle tactility, providing just enough feedback without being overwhelming. With a medium-light typing feel and a neutral sound signature, the Mallo switches strike a balanced chord for typists across various environments. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switches boast a smooth, high-pitched typing experience with a transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing for maximum RGB lighting customization. The lightly lubed POM stem ensures minimal friction and a satisfyingly smooth keystroke. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the KTT Mallo and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing on these switches. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through for a visually appealing effect. This similarity in housing material ensures that users can expect a consistent sound profile and aesthetic experience when using either switch.
In contrast, the Mallo features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear utilizes UHWMPE for its bottom housing, resulting in a very bright sound signature that offers resonant clacks when typing. This difference in bottom housing material contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switches, providing users with unique typing experiences based on their preference for sound profile.
While the top housing material plays a significant role in the sound produced when pressing down on a key, the bottom housing material has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. This distinction highlights the importance of considering both the top and bottom housing materials when selecting a switch for a desired typing experience. Ultimately, whether utilizing polycarbonate or a different material for the housing, both the KTT Mallo and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear prioritize delivering a distinct sound profile and aesthetic appeal to users.
Weight
The KTT Mallo tactile switch has a unique characteristic with its actuation force of None grams, making it a light switch in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke. In comparison, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 53 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. When it comes to bottom out force, the KTT Mallo requires 55 grams, while the WS Aurora Clear requires 63.5 grams, making the latter a heavier switch in terms of pressing all the way down. Those who prefer a lighter switch for longer typing periods or gaming sessions may opt for the Mallo, while those seeking a more robust typing experience may lean towards the WS Aurora Clear. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, we can see that the Mallo has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Aurora Clear has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Mallo being slightly longer than the WS Aurora Clear. Gamers may prefer the WS Aurora Clear for its slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may opt for the Mallo with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance in a mechanical keyboard.
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 Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00 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 tactile switch is known for its neutral and subdued sound profile. This means that the switch produces a moderate sound that is not overpowering or distracting, making it suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch is characterized by a high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp, which may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced sound profile. When considering sound, it is also important to note that the overall acoustics can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Mallo tactile switch offers a feathery and subtle typing experience. The light actuation force and gentle resistance make it comfortable for extended typing sessions and reduce finger fatigue. Additionally, the switch's stepped design provides a unique typing sensation with distinct pre-travel and post-travel sensations. Conversely, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch is described as buttery and mild, providing a smooth and uniform typing experience. The switch's polished finish offers reduced friction and smooth key travel for a sleek typing feel.
In conclusion, the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mallo switch provides a neutral and feathery typing experience with a balanced sound profile, the WS Aurora Clear switch offers a high-pitched sound and buttery feel with smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. However, it is important to consider how other factors such as keycap choices and keyboard setups can further influence the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, consider your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-light switch with a neutral sound signature and a gentle tactility, opt for the Mallo. It provides a balanced typing experience suitable for various environments. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy switch with a high-pitched sound profile and a smooth, buttery typing feel, the WS Aurora Clear is the way to go. Its transparent design allows for vibrant RGB lighting customization. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences.
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