KTT Mallo vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mallo and Wuque Studio WS Yellow offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The KTT Mallo is a tactile switch known for its subtle tactility and medium-light typing feel, making it a balanced choice for typists seeking gentle feedback without overpowering sensations. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow is a linear switch that boasts a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce, thanks to its 22mm double-stage spring. While the Mallo offers a neutral sound signature, the WS Yellow provides a familiar sound that enthusiasts appreciate. Both switches offer unique qualities that appeal to different types of typists; 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
53g
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 Yellow both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in material for the bottom housing means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when bottoming out keys.
However, where these switches differ is in their choice of material for the top housing. The Mallo features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the WS Yellow utilizes a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This contrast in top housing material will result in a noticeable difference in the sound produced by the switches when keys are released, with the Mallo offering a more resonant sound compared to the WS Yellow.
In essence, the choice of housing materials for the KTT Mallo and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile of these switches. While both switches share nylon as the material for their bottom housing, the difference in their top housing material – polycarbonate for the Mallo and nylon for the WS Yellow – leads to distinct sound characteristics. The Mallo's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the WS Yellow's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. Ultimately, users can choose between these switches based on their preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch both have a medium-light bottom out force, with the Mallo requiring 55 grams and the WS Yellow requiring 53 grams. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, making it difficult to directly compare this aspect. For those who prefer a lighter weight, either of these switches would be a good choice for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, they may want to consider switches with heavier forces. Overall, the Mallo is slightly heavier than the WS Yellow in terms of bottom out force, making it a slightly more tactile option for those who prefer that type of typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Mallo tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Mallo offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a bit more depth for those who prefer a hearty feel when typing. On the other hand, the WS Yellow offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may cater to gamers or those looking for a faster response time. Both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, so depending on personal preference, either option could provide satisfactory results. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to the specific typing experience each individual is looking for.
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 Yellow 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 switch is known for its neutral and subdued characteristics, offering a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various environments. On the other hand, information about the sound of the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch is not available, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. It is essential to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard structure and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the KTT Mallo switch is described as feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle, providing a comfortable and light typing experience that is gentle on the fingers. In comparison, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch is described as creamy, mild, and polished, offering a smooth and buttery typing sensation with reduced friction. Both switches fall into the category of mild feel, which signifies a more approachable and comfortable typing experience for a wide range of users.
In conclusion, the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mallo switch is more known for its subtle tactility and neutral sound signature, the WS Yellow switch stands out for its creamy and polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience, with the Mallo providing a balanced and versatile option, and the WS Yellow offering a smooth and fluid typing feel. Depending on your specific needs and preferences, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience with their distinct qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a gentle tactility with a neutral sound signature and medium-light typing feel, the Mallo may be the perfect match for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a smooth and buttery typing experience with a slightly lower bottom out force, the WS Yellow could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique characteristics, so make your decision based on what feels most comfortable and satisfying to you as you type.
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