KTT Mallo vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often comes down to the tactile sensation and sound profile that best suits your typing style. The KTT Mallo switches are celebrated for their subtlety, providing a gentle tactile bump that offers just enough feedback without overwhelming the typist. Their medium-light actuation and neutral sound signature make the Mallo an ideal option for those who seek a balanced typing experience in various environments. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switches deliver a distinctly different feel with their light actuation force and deep, rounded sound profile. This combination makes them particularly appealing to typists who enjoy a gentle and effortless keypress. The differences between the Mallo and Yunhai switches speak to the diverse preferences in mechanical keyboards, whether you prioritize an understated, refined touch or a more pronounced and fluid typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's perfect for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mallo and the TTC Yunhai, a clear distinction can be observed in the choice of materials for the top housing. The Mallo utilizes a polycarbonate construction which contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound profile, making it particularly suitable for RGB lighting setups due to its translucency. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for a crisper and higher-pitched sound when a key is released. In contrast, the Yunhai's top housing is made of nylon, a material known for its softer properties and ability to absorb sound. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile that is rounder and more muted, especially upon releasing the keys. Thus, the different top housing materials significantly affect the auditory characteristics of the switches when in use.
Both the Mallo and Yunhai share a commonality in their bottom housing, which is constructed from nylon. This similarity ensures that both switches produce a deeper and more muffled sound profile when pressed, as nylon's softer nature helps to absorb sound. Since the bottom housing greatly influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, users can expect a consistent auditory effect from both the Mallo and Yunhai in this aspect. The nylon composition fosters a textured tactile experience that imbues users with a sense of depth and richness in sound regardless of the different acoustical outcomes stemming from the top housings.
Ultimately, the divergence in the top housing materials leads to distinctive sound profiles when typing on the Mallo and Yunhai switches. The Mallo’s polycarbonate will create a brighter, more resonant sound, while the Yunhai’s nylon exudes a warmer, softer tone. However, both switches present a cohesive experience at the bottom housing level, where the nylon properties foster a similar depth in sound upon actuation. Therefore, users seeking a contrast in sound signature between sharper highs and richer lows can choose between the two, while still enjoying a common tactile and auditory foundation stemming from the shared nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Mallo tactile switch with the TTC Yunhai linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Mallo's actuation force is unknown, but its bottom out force is measured at 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Yunhai switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is also considered light. This means that typing with the Yunhai switch requires less strength to actuate each keystroke compared to the Mallo, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Furthermore, while the Mallo's bottom out force is heavier than that of the Yunhai, this may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when bottoming out. In summary, the Yunhai is the lighter switch overall, while the Mallo's higher bottom out force offers a different tactile feedback experience for those who favor a firmer touch.
Travel distance
The KTT Mallo tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Yunhai linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference indicates that the Mallo switch offers a more pronounced depth when pressed, appealing to users who may prefer a tactile feedback and a more substantial experience while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Yunhai's shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm aligns with the trend towards quicker response times, making it an attractive option for gamers seeking speed in their keystrokes. Therefore, if you're looking for the switch with the longer travel distance, the KTT Mallo is the choice, while the TTC Yunhai is the shorter option, providing distinct experiences based on user preference for feedback 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 TTC Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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 switches feature a neutral sound signature that blends well in various environments, making them versatile for both workspaces and home settings. Their subdued sound profile ensures that while a keystroke is audible, it doesn’t dominate the auditory landscape, providing a moderate experience that appeals to a wide audience. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai linear switches are characterized by a deep, rounded sound profile; this can create a pleasing acoustic environment, particularly for those who enjoy a more substantial auditory feedback while typing. Each switch will yield unique sound results based on keycap material and the keyboard itself, potentially leading to different experiences even between the Mallo and Yunhai.
In terms of feel, the KTT Mallo switches offer a feathery and mild typing experience, requiring little exertion from the fingers. This light actuation force minimizes finger fatigue, making them suitable for prolonged use, whether for gaming, studying, or work-related tasks. Moreover, their stepped tactile response provides a nuanced feedback that feels mild rather than aggressive, catering to typists who prefer a gentle, yet detectable, tactile bump. Contrastingly, while the specific feel characteristics of the TTC Yunhai switches remain unspecified, their reputation suggests a smooth and effortless typing experience due to their incredibly light actuation force, appealing to users who prefer a more fluid and relaxed sensation on each keystroke.
In conclusion, both the KTT Mallo and TTC Yunhai switches cater to distinct preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. The Mallo excels in delivering an understated yet satisfying tactile experience with a balanced sound profile, making it ideal for diverse environments. Conversely, the Yunhai switches promise a deep auditory feedback with an effortless actuation, appealing to those who enjoy a smoother typing experience. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on whether one prioritizes tactile feedback and sound neutrality or a lighter, more fluid keystroke with deeper sound qualities. Regardless of the choice, both switches will offer remarkable typing experiences, albeit with differing characteristics and subjective qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you are someone who values a balanced typing experience with a gentle tactile feedback, the Mallo switch is an excellent option. Its medium-light actuation force of 55 grams provides a comfortable feel without being too demanding, making it ideal for extended typing sessions at work or school. The neutral sound profile and subdued characteristics ensure that it fits well in any environment, whether you're at home or in a shared space. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and enjoy a smooth, effortless keystroke, the Yunhai linear switch is the way to go. With its 50-gram actuation force and deep, rounded sound profile, it provides an incredibly light and satisfying experience that reduces finger fatigue and makes it suitable for rapid typing or gaming. In essence, choose the Mallo for a tactile, versatile experience that caters to a range of contexts, while the Yunhai is perfect for those seeking a lightweight and seamless feel in their mechanical keyboard.
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