Huano Elf vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Elf and KTT Mallo offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Huano Elf, known for its POK top housing, provides enhanced acoustics and delivers a deep sound signature, coupled with a medium-light feel that creates a satisfying typing experience. Linear in nature, the Elf promises a smooth keypress without the distraction of tactile bumps, making it ideal for gamers and those who prioritize speed and fluidity in their typing. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo switches embody a more tactile experience with a gentle bump that offers just enough feedback without overwhelming the user. Their medium-light typing feel and neutral sound signature make them versatile for any typing environment, appealing particularly to writers and daily typers who appreciate a subtle yet present response. Each switch has its advantages, making them appealing depending on your needs, whether you seek the clarity and speed of the Elf or the understated tactility of the Mallo. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
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
3.60 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
POK
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
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Huano Elf and KTT Mallo switches exhibit both similarities and contrasts that can significantly influence the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of the switches. The top housing of the Huano Elf is constructed from polyketone (POK), a material celebrated for its exceptional durability, smoothness, and low coefficient of friction. In comparison, the KTT Mallo utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for its clarity and resonance. While both materials aim to optimize the switch performance, they create different auditory experiences; the POK material contributes to a smooth, clacky sound profile, whereas polycarbonate enables a sharper, crisper sound. Despite their differences, both materials foster an engaging user experience, enhancing the responsiveness and tactile satisfaction of the switches.
When examining the bottom housings, however, the situation is notably different as both the Huano Elf and KTT Mallo employ nylon as their material of choice. Nylon is a traditional switch housing material, lauded for its ability to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile that is characterized by a duller and rounder quality. Since both switches share this nylon bottom housing, they produce similar auditory characteristics that harmonize with the softer nature of the material. This consistency creates a synergistic effect in terms of sound when typing, allowing for a more uniform auditory response across both switch types.
The interaction between the distinct top hosing materials and the shared nylon bottoms highlights how combinations of different materials can yield varied experiences. The top housing of each switch significantly influences the sound when releasing a key, with the POK or polycarbonate affecting the resulting higher-pitched or clacky sounds, respectively. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing remains a common foundation that grounds both switches in a rich and resonant auditory presence. When it comes to the overall typing experience, the collaboration between different top and bottom materials showcases the nuanced ways in which varying plastics can work together to craft unique yet complementary sound profiles within the realm of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces highlight their distinct typing experiences. The Elf switch features a known actuation force of 42 grams but lacks information on its bottom out force, making it lighter in terms of actuation compared to the Mallo switch, which has an unspecified actuation force but boasts a bottom out force of 55 grams. This heavier bottom out force of the Mallo suggests a more substantial resistance when pressed completely down, appealing to those who prefer a firmer feel with more feedback while typing. Conversely, the lighter actuation force of the Elf could be advantageous for users who type or game for extended periods, as it may reduce finger fatigue. Overall, while the actuation force of the Elf is known and lighter, the Mallo's heavier bottom out force offers a different tactile experience, making them suited for varying preferences in typing feel and performance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, there is a clear distinction: the Huano Elf has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Mallo measures 4 mm. This means that the Elf provides a shorter travel distance, which can be an advantage for gamers seeking quicker response times, as shorter distances facilitate rapid key presses. Conversely, the Mallo's longer travel distance may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing, offering a deeper and potentially more satisfying experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness and tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Elf has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Elf for $3.29.
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 comparing the sound quality of the Huano Elf linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, the Elf is noted for its deep sound signature, thanks to its POK top housing, which enhances acoustics to deliver a richer auditory experience. This can create more pronounced feedback, adding to the overall typing satisfaction. In contrast, the Mallo switch features a neutral sound signature, making it subdued in its auditory presence. This means it strikes a balanced tone that neither overpowers the typing environment nor completely recedes, which can be advantageous for those seeking a versatile switch suitable for various settings like offices or quiet rooms. Overall, those who prioritize an immersive auditory experience might lean towards the Elf, while those who prefer a refined and understated sound may find the Mallo more appealing.
In terms of feel, the Elf offers a medium-light typing experience that ensures a satisfying response with each keystroke, promoting a comfortable typing rhythm for users. The Mallo, on the other hand, provides a complex yet balanced tactile sensation with its gentle and mild characteristics. While the Mallo's feedback is subtle, it offers a feathery and almost effortless typing experience, making it less straining on the fingers during prolonged use. The Mallo’s stepped design allows for a more nuanced feel when typing, featuring pre-travel or post-travel resistance that results in a more delicate tactile feedback. Thus, while both switches are medium-light, the Mallo excels in providing nuanced tactile feedback and a softer overall feel compared to the deeper sensation of the Elf.
In conclusion, the Huano Elf linear switch is characterized by its deep sound and medium-light feel, making it a suitable choice for users seeking a more pronounced typing experience. The KTT Mallo tactile switch, with its neutral sound and nuanced, gentle tactile feedback, caters to individuals who desire subtleness and versatility in their typing. While both switches offer a medium-light typing experience, their differences in auditory and tactile qualities present distinct advantages depending on a user’s preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will boil down to whether one favors an immersive auditory experience or a refined, tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Huano Elf linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you enjoy a smooth typing experience with a satisfying acoustics profile that emphasizes a deeper sound, the Elf is an excellent choice, particularly if you aim for minimal finger fatigue during lengthy sessions, as its very light feel allows for effortless keystrokes. This makes it especially suitable for gamers who value quick inputs or for users who engage in extended typing without the need for tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer switches that deliver a gentle tactile response without being overly pronounced, then the Mallo may be more up your alley. Its subtle feedback along with a neutral sound profile makes it an ideal contender for diverse environments, such as offices or shared spaces, where you want a pleasant typing experience without distracting those around you. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you prioritize smooth linear action or the nuanced feedback of a tactile switch.
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