KTT Mallo vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Mallo tactile switch to the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is clear that both options offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Mallo stands out for its subtle tactility and medium-light typing feel, making it a well-rounded choice for typists seeking a balanced feedback experience. On the other hand, the WS Red boasts a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial feel to each keystroke. While the Mallo offers a neutral sound signature suitable for various environments, the WS Red retains a classic sound signature with its material blend. 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Mallo and the Wuque Studio WS Red both utilize different housing materials for their switches, with the Mallo featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the WS Red uses nylon for both the top and bottom housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Mallo's top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, while the nylon top housing of the WS Red elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches benefit from the acoustic properties of their respective housing materials, delivering unique sound profiles to users.
In terms of sound production, the polycarbonate top housing of the Mallo and the nylon top housing of the WS Red offer contrasting characteristics. The polycarbonate top housing of the Mallo creates a higher-pitched and clearer sound, while the nylon top housing of the WS Red produces a duller and rounder sound. The difference in sound profiles can greatly impact the typing experience for users, with the Mallo offering a sharper sound for each keystroke compared to the WS Red which provides a fuller and deeper sound.
While the top housing materials of the KTT Mallo and the Wuque Studio WS Red offer distinct sound profiles, their bottom housing materials share similarities in being made of nylon. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound, creating a deeper and fuller typing experience. This means that both switches provide a consistent typing feel due to the shared bottom housing material, while the differences in their top housing materials contribute to the unique sound characteristics of each switch. Overall, whether it is the Mallo's polycarbonate top housing or the WS Red's nylon top housing, users can expect an enhanced typing experience tailored to their sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Mallo has an actuation force of None grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, while the WS Red also has a None-gram actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Mallo requires 55 grams, which is lighter compared to the WS Red's 67 grams. The Mallo offers a medium-light typing experience, ideal for extended typing sessions, while the WS Red provides a more substantial and heavier typing feel. Both switches have the same actuation force, which means users can expect a similar responsiveness in triggering keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience based on the bottom out force.
Travel distance
The KTT Mallo tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of typical travel distances for mechanical switches, with the Mallo leaning towards the more traditional length and the WS Red being slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the WS Red for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Mallo. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and 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 Wuque Studio WS Red comes in at $3.50 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Mallo offers a neutral and subdued sound profile that is gentle on the ears and suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Wuque Studio WS Red remains unknown, but it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also depend on other factors like the keyboard and keycaps used. Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Mallo provides a feathery and mild typing experience that is comfortable for extended use, while also offering a subtle tactile feedback. The feel of the WS Red switches is not specified, but it is expected to provide a bouncy and substantial typing feel due to its heavier actuation force.
In conclusion, the KTT Mallo tactile switch offers a balanced and versatile typing experience with its gentle tactility, neutral sound signature, and feathery feel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch is expected to provide a more substantial and bouncy typing experience with a heavier actuation force. While the specific sound and feel characteristics of the WS Red switches remain unknown, it is likely to offer a different typing experience compared to the Mallo switches. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you prefer a light typing experience with a subtle tactile bump and a neutral sound profile, the Mallo may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavier actuation force with a bouncy typing feel and a classic sound signature, the WS Red could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you value most and which characteristics align with your preferences.
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