Durock Dolphin vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Dolphin linear switch to the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it is evident that both offer unique qualities to enhance your typing experience. The Dolphin stands out for its silent operation, making it perfect for quiet office settings or shared workspaces where noise is a concern. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it provides a satisfying press with just the right amount of resistance. On the other hand, the Mallo is praised for its gentle tactility and medium-light typing feel, striking a balance that is ideal for typists seeking subtle feedback. While the Dolphin is characterized as 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Low-pitched', the Mallo is categorized as 'Feathery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Stepped', 'Subdued', and 'Subtle'. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference. 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
62g
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
The Durock Dolphin and the KTT Mallo both feature polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects to shine through, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the switch. Ultimately, both switches will offer a similar sound profile and visual appeal due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
In contrast, the Dolphin and Mallo differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Dolphin utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Mallo also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing the same characteristics of a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This consistency in bottom housing material between the two switches may result in a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
When considering how the top and bottom housings affect the overall typing experience, it is clear that each material brings unique qualities to the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. In the case of the Durock Dolphin and the KTT Mallo, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a balanced sound profile with a mix of sharpness, depth, and resonance. Whether typing on the Dolphin or Mallo, users can expect a tactile and satisfying typing experience with distinct sound characteristics.
Weight
The Durock Dolphin linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch both offer unique features when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force. The Dolphin has a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a medium resistance level, while the Mallo offers a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light. The actuation force for both switches is not specified. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter feel of the Mallo for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may enjoy the heavier push of the Dolphin for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference based on desired force levels.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Mallo tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Dolphin the shorter option of the two. The 0.2 mm may seem minimal, but it can make a difference in how the switch feels when typing or gaming. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Dolphin with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Mallo with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience, so choosing between them will depend on personal preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Dolphin has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dolphin 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is described as having a muted and low-pitched sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo tactile switch is noted for its neutral and subdued sound, providing a gentle and dampened typing sound that is versatile for various environments. Both switches offer a more subtle and restrained sound compared to louder mechanical switches, ensuring a pleasant typing experience without being disruptive.
In terms of feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is distinguished by its polished and refined typing experience, offering a smooth key travel that reduces friction for a sleek typing feel. In contrast, the KTT Mallo switch is described as feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle, providing a light and gentle typing experience with a moderate tactility that is comfortable for extended typing sessions. Both switches offer a balanced typing feel that strikes a middle-ground zone, making them suitable for a wide range of typists.
Overall, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and KTT Mallo tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dolphin excels in providing a more substantial and precise typing experience with a muted and low-pitched sound, ideal for those who prefer a bit more resistance in their switches. On the other hand, the Mallo offers a gentle tactility and a versatile sound profile that strikes a balanced chord for typists looking for a more subtle typing experience. Depending on individual preferences and typing needs, both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to a variety of users, ensuring a satisfying and personalized typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, consider your environment and typing preferences. If you value a silent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Dolphin may be the better choice, especially for office settings. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle tactility and medium-light typing feel, along with a neutral sound signature, the Mallo could be the ideal option for a versatile typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a more substantial feel with muted sound (Dolphin) or a lighter, subtler typing experience with a neutral sound profile (Mallo). Choose wisely based on your personal preferences and needs.
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