Durock Daybreak vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the decision can often come down to personal preference and typing style. On one hand, the Durock Daybreak linear switch offers a solid 67g actuation force, providing a hefty typing experience that is both quiet and polished. This makes it an ideal choice for those who want a more substantial touch without the loud clatter. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo tactile switch offers a more subtle and balanced typing experience with its gentle tactility and medium-light feel. Its neutral sound signature makes it a versatile option for different typing environments. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these 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
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Mallo feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for a visually appealing aesthetic. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches ensures a clear and resonant sound profile, making them both ideal choices for those seeking a distinct sound experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Daybreak and the Mallo opt for a nylon material, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound experience. This choice in material for the bottom housing of both switches ensures that typing on them will result in a more impactful and satisfying sound when bottoming out the keys.
While the top and bottom housings of the Daybreak and Mallo switches differ, each material brings unique qualities to the overall sound profile. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound experience, while the top housing plays a role in the sound when releasing a key. Overall, both switches offer a combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings to create a well-rounded sound profile that caters to both tactile and auditory preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Daybreak has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Mallo has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light. The actuation force for both switches is not specified. The lighter bottom out force of the Mallo may be preferred by those who enjoy typing for extended periods, as it requires less force. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Daybreak may appeal to those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, individuals should consider their preferences for actuation and bottom out forces when selecting a switch for their keyboard.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is slightly shorter than the KTT Mallo tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Daybreak offers a slightly quicker response time compared to the Mallo. Gamers who prioritize speed may prefer the Daybreak, while those who enjoy a deeper key press experience may lean towards the Mallo. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience. Both switches offer similar results, with the main distinction lying in the slight variation in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Daybreak has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Daybreak for $5.41.
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
In terms of sound, the Durock Daybreak linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched sound profile, making it a great option for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo tactile switch provides a neutral and subdued sound that strikes a balance between audible feedback and office-friendly noise levels. Both switches offer subtle sound signatures that are ideal for shared workspaces or environments where a quieter keyboard is appreciated. Due to their similar characteristics in sound description, users can expect comparable results in sound performance from both switches, with slight variations based on other factors like keyboard configuration and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Daybreak linear switch is noted for its polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Mallo tactile switch offers a feathery and mild typing feel that is comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Mallo switch is described as having a stepped and subtle tactile feel, providing a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. While the Daybreak switch emphasizes smooth key travel, the Mallo switch prioritizes light actuation and reduced finger fatigue for a comfortable typing experience. Users can choose between the polished precision of the Daybreak or the gentle tactility of the Mallo based on their personal typing preferences.
In conclusion, the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch each offer distinct qualities in sound and feel, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Daybreak excels in providing a heavier actuation force with a quiet and polished typing experience, while the Mallo showcases a balanced tactile feel with a neutral sound profile. Both switches present versatile options for various typing environments, with the Daybreak emphasizing refinement and the Mallo focusing on comfort and subtlety. Whether users prioritize a muted sound and polished feel or a subtle tactile experience with a lightweight touch, both the Daybreak and Mallo switches offer unique advantages for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a heavier actuation force and a quieter typing experience, the Daybreak may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter touch and a gentle tactile feedback, the Mallo could be more suitable. Consider your environment and how much noise you can tolerate, as well as your typing habits and whether you prefer a more pronounced or subtle typing feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your individual needs and preferences. Ultimately, your typing experience will be greatly influenced by the switch you choose, so take your time to explore and find the one that feels just right for you.
Mentioned in this article
