TTC Bluish White vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Bluish White and KTT Mallo both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Bluish White is known for its tactile feedback that provides a satisfyingly poppy typing experience, with a snappy sound profile and a low-pitched feel. On the other hand, the Mallo switches from KTT are praised for their subtlety and finesse, offering a gentle tactility and medium-light typing feel with a neutral sound signature. While the Bluish White leans towards a more pronounced tactile experience, the Mallo strikes a balance between feedback and smoothness. 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
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The key housing materials of the TTC Bluish White and the KTT Mallo are quite similar, as both use polycarbonate for the top housing. This material creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Bluish White uses nylon, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Mallo also utilizes nylon for the bottom housing, indicating that both switches will likely provide a similar typing experience when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel.
Although both the TTC Bluish White and the KTT Mallo feature polycarbonate top housings, their bottom housings differ in material. While the polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, the nylon bottom housing of both switches elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This split in housing materials allows for a unique typing experience with each switch – with the bottom housing having more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing affecting the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, the overall typing experience between the two switches may not be vastly different, as both nylon bottom housings provide a similar rounder sound quality.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the TTC Bluish White and the KTT Mallo play a significant role in shaping the sound profile of each switch. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharp and resonant sound, their nylon bottom housings offer a deeper and fuller typing experience. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom housing allows for a unique sound profile when typing on each switch. Overall, the similarities in using nylon for the bottom housing suggest that the typing experience between the two switches may not differ significantly, with slight variations in sound quality.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is evident that there are some differences between the two. The Bluish White switch has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Mallo switch has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly heavier. The lighter actuation and bottom out force of the Bluish White switch make it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, suitable for prolonged use during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Mallo switch offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Overall, for users looking for a lighter switch, the Bluish White would be a better choice, while those preferring a bit more resistance may lean towards the Mallo switch.
Travel distance
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the KTT Mallo tactile switch. The Bluish White switch will provide a quicker response time, making it popular among gamers who value speed. On the other hand, the Mallo switch offers a slightly deeper travel distance, which some users may find more satisfying for typing or other activities that require a more substantial key press. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, catering to individual preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.18.
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.
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 TTC Bluish White switch offers a low-pitched, bass-heavy tone that provides a satisfyingly poppy typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo switch has a neutral and subdued sound profile that doesn't overpower but still provides enough feedback for typists. The Mallo's sound signature is versatile for various typing environments, while the Bluish White's low-pitched profile may appeal to those who enjoy a deeper sound.
In terms of feel, the Bluish White switch is described as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished, providing a smooth, gentle, and refined typing experience with a mild sound. The KTT Mallo switch offers a feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle feel, providing a light and comfortable typing experience suitable for extended sessions. Both switches feature a stepped tactile feel, offering a mild tactility that gives feedback without being overwhelming.
In conclusion, the TTC Bluish White switch and the KTT Mallo switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Bluish White provides a low-pitched and buttery typing experience, the Mallo offers a neutral and feathery feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, both switches offer satisfying options for typists looking for a tactile typing experience. Whether you choose the Bluish White or Mallo, you can expect a similar level of quality and performance in your mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Bluish White tactile switch or the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a light bottom out force and a poppy typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the Bluish White may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a subtle, neutral sound signature with a feathery typing feel, the Mallo switch could be more suitable. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences and versatile options for various typing environments. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable to you as you type away on your mechanical keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
