KTT Mallo vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Maple Leaf mechanical keyboard switches, a key point of difference lies in their tactile feedback. The KTT Mallo switch is praised for its subtle and gentle tactility that offers just the right amount of feedback without being too overwhelming. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch does not have a specific tactile description provided. Additionally, the KTT Mallo switch is known for its medium-light typing feel and neutral sound signature, making it a versatile choice for various typing environments. However, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch may offer different characteristics that cater to a different typing preference. As we delve deeper into the specifics of each switch, you can better determine which one aligns with your typing needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches differ in terms of the top housing. The Mallo features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf uses a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, they cater to different preferences and typing experiences.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Mallo and the Maple Leaf switches utilize nylon, which again contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. This similarity in housing material for the bottom part of the switches may result in comparable typing experiences in terms of sound and feel. However, slight differences in design or construction may still lead to nuanced variations in performance between the two switches.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Mallo offers a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Maple Leaf provides a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share the use of nylon in the bottom housing, ensuring a consistent level of sound absorption and typing experience. Ultimately, selecting between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
In comparing the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it is evident that they have distinct differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Mallo has an actuation force of None grams, making it unknown, and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorized as medium-heavy. This indicates that the Maple Leaf requires a slightly heavier initial force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Mallo, but both provide a satisfying tactile feedback. Ultimately, the Mallo is lighter in actuation force, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions, while the Maple Leaf offers a heavier push feel for those seeking a more robust typing experience. The actuation force plays a key role in the typing experience, as a lighter force may lead to less fatigue over time, whereas a heavier force can provide a more tactile and satisfying typing sensation. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, we find that the Mallo has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Maple Leaf has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the Maple Leaf the shorter of the two switches. A 4.0mm travel distance is considered more traditional, while a 3.0mm travel distance is shallower. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Maple Leaf for faster response times, while those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the Mallo. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, so choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of typing or gaming style.
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 Outemu Maple Leaf comes in at $3.10 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 comparing the sound qualities of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it is evident that the Mallo offers a neutral sound signature with a subdued profile. This makes it a versatile choice for different typing environments, striking a balance between noticeable feedback and subtlety. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Maple Leaf switch is unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. In terms of feel, the Mallo is described as feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle, offering a light typing experience with a gentle resistance. This makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions and suitable for shared spaces. As for the Maple Leaf switch, the feel qualities are also unknown, making it challenging to provide a direct comparison.
Overall, based on the available information, it can be concluded that the KTT Mallo tactile switch offers a balanced and versatile typing experience with subtle tactility, a neutral sound signature, and a light typing feel. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch are unknown in terms of sound and feel, it is important to consider personal preferences and typing habits when choosing between the two switches to ensure an optimal typing experience. Since the Mallo is known for its gentle and well-balanced qualities, opting for the Maple Leaf switch may provide similar results if a lighter touch and subtle feedback are preferred.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, you should consider the specific characteristics of each switch. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a switch that offers subtle tactility with a neutral sound signature, the Mallo would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a switch with specific sound and feel descriptions, the Maple Leaf may be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you plan to use the keyboard.
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