KTT Mallo vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mallo, a tactile switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Jade, a linear switch, offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Mallo is revered for its subtlety and finesse, providing a gentle tactility that offers just the right amount of feedback without being overwhelming. With a neutral sound signature and a medium-light typing feel, it strikes a balanced chord for typists in various environments. On the other hand, the WS Jade stands out for its bright metallic and resonant sound profile, thanks to a metallic insert in the stem base. Additionally, the light diffuser creates a captivating RGB display, adding a touch of flair to the typing experience. While the Mallo offers a subdued and subtle typing experience, the Jade provides a clacky, marbly, and creamy feel. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make an informed decision on which switch best suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Mallo utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade features a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. Despite their differences in sound profiles, both housing materials offer unique advantages. Polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a clear and resonant sound, while POM's softer nature creates a pleasing and fuller sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Mallo uses nylon, which adds a deeper and fuller sound profile to typing. The softer properties of nylon absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the WS Jade's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper and muted sound profile. Both nylon and POM offer their own distinctive sound characteristics, enhancing the overall typing experience on each switch.
While the top and bottom housings of the KTT Mallo and Wuque Studio WS Jade differ in material, they work together to provide a unique typing experience. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences in sound profile, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that cater to individual preferences and enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, it is clear that the Mallo is the lighter option. The Mallo has an actuation force of None grams, making it very light, while the WS Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Mallo at 55 grams and the WS Jade at 60 grams, both falling in the medium range. The lighter actuation force of the Mallo may be preferred by those looking for a more effortless typing experience, while the WS Jade's slightly heavier actuation force could provide a more substantial feel for typing enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, it is evident that the Mallo has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the WS Jade's 3.6 mm. While both fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Mallo provides a bit more depth when pressing down on the key. Gamers may lean towards the WS Jade for its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times. However, some may find the abruptness of a shorter travel distance uncomfortable and prefer the smoother feel of the Mallo's longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for either a shorter, more responsive feel or a longer, more substantial press.
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 Jade comes in at $4.30 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, making it suitable for a variety of environments without being overpowering. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade switch is characterized by its clacky, marbly, and resonant sound, creating a unique and distinctive auditory experience. Depending on personal preference and the setting in which the keyboard will be used, users can choose between the more subtle sound of the Mallo or the bold and percussive sound of the WS Jade.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Mallo switch provides a feathery and mild typing experience, suitable for extended typing sessions with minimal finger fatigue. The WS Jade switch, on the other hand, offers a silky and creamy typing feel due to its smoothness and rock-solid bottom-out. While the Mallo focuses on a gentle and balanced tactility, the WS Jade prioritizes a smooth and buttery typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a lighter, more subtle feel or a smoother and creamier typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Mallo and Wuque Studio WS Jade switches offer distinctly different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mallo excels in providing a neutral and feathery typing experience with a subdued sound profile, making it a versatile choice for various environments. On the other hand, the WS Jade stands out with its clacky and resonant sound, paired with a silky and creamy typing feel for a unique and immersive experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the subtlety of the Mallo or the boldness of the WS Jade to enhance their typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, consider your preference for typing feel and sound profile. If you value a subtle tactile feedback with a medium-light typing feel and a neutral sound signature, the Mallo may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and creamy typing experience along with a bright and resonant sound profile, the WS Jade might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and environment to enhance your overall typing experience.
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