Dareu Dream vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Dream and KTT Mallo mechanical keyboard switches offer enthusiasts a choice between a light linear switch and a tactile switch, respectively. The Dareu Dream's easy-to-press and clacky feel, combined with its affordable price point, make it an attractive option for those seeking quality on a budget. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo's subtle tactility and medium-light typing feel provide just enough feedback without being overpowering, making it a balanced choice for typists. 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Dream and the KTT Mallo utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic enhances clarity and resonance, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. The use of polycarbonate in clear housings allows for a translucent aesthetic that is visually appealing. With similar top housings, both switches are likely to produce comparable sound characteristics and visual effects when in use.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Dareu Dream and the KTT Mallo feature nylon components, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer properties absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housings play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch, impacting the bottom-out sound when pressed. Both switches utilizing nylon bottom housings are expected to provide similar typing experiences, with a focus on creating a more substantial and muffled sound profile.
While the top and bottom housings differ between the Dareu Dream and the KTT Mallo, the qualities of each housing material are evident in different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, while the top housing influences the sound upon key release. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a unique typing experience through the combination of materials that cater to sound quality and feel. Whether it's the sharper tones of polycarbonate in the top housing or the deeper sound from nylon in the bottom housing, each switch offers its own distinct characteristics for users to appreciate.
Weight
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the KTT Mallo tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Mallo switch has a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams, while the bottom out force of the Dream switch is unknown. This means that the Dream switch may provide a more effortless typing experience, ideal for long hours of use, while the Mallo switch may offer a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Both switches have their own unique advantages, with the Dream being lighter and the Mallo being heavier, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on whether the user prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Dream linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm. This provides a uniform typing experience across both switches, allowing for similar results in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness. So, whether you choose the Dareu Dream linear switch or the KTT Mallo tactile switch, you can expect the same travel distance and overall typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Dream has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dream for $3.76.
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 Dareu Dream linear switch offers a clacky typing experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo tactile switch provides a neutral and subdued sound profile that is not overpowering, making it suitable for various typing environments. The choice of board and keycaps can also influence the sound produced by these switches.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Dream switch is characterized by an easy-to-press and mild typing experience, with minimal force required to activate the keys. This allows for effortless typing and reduced finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The KTT Mallo switch, on the other hand, offers a feathery and subtle typing feel, with a light actuation force that is comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Mallo switch provides a stepped tactile sensation, offering a unique feel with two discernible stages during key presses.
In conclusion, while the Dareu Dream linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch offer different sound and feel experiences, both switches provide a quality and affordable option for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Dream switch excels in providing a light linear typing experience with a clacky sound, while the Mallo switch offers a gentle tactile feedback with a neutral and subdued sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, it is important to note that both switches cater to a broad range of typists, whether they are beginners, advanced users, or simply looking for a versatile switch for various typing environments.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you prioritize affordability and a light linear typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Dareu Dream switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced typing feel with gentle tactility and a neutral, subdued sound profile, the KTT Mallo switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a smooth linear feel or a tactile typing experience with subtle feedback. Both switches have their strengths and cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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