HMX Hibiscus vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX Hibiscus and the KTT Mallo can significantly affect your typing experience, each offering distinct features tailored to different preferences. The HMX Hibiscus, renowned for its ultra-light actuation force and smooth operation, is perfect for those seeking a fluid and effortless typing experience, characterized by a satisfyingly clacky and crispy sound signature that adds an engaging auditory feedback. In contrast, the KTT Mallo provides a more refined touch with its gentle tactility, offering just enough feedback to enhance typing without overwhelming the user. With a medium-light feel and a neutral sound profile, it’s an excellent match for varied environments, catering well to typists who appreciate subtle nuance. Both switches have their unique appeals: the Hibiscus for its smoothness and lively sound, and the Mallo for its balanced feedback and versatility. 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
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T3
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Hibiscus and KTT Mallo switches present a fascinating contrast in their top housing materials, with the Hibiscus utilizing nylon and the Mallo employing polycarbonate. The choice of nylon for the Hibiscus lends a distinctly deeper and fuller sound profile, attributed to its softer nature, which absorbs sound effectively. This characteristic enhances the overall typing experience by producing a rounder sound, making it ideal for users who prefer a more subdued auditory feedback. In contrast, the Mallo's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate not only increases the clarity and resonance of the sound but also provides an aesthetic advantage, as its translucency complements RGB lighting setups, allowing for vibrant illumination effects that enhance the switch's visual appeal.
While the top housings of the Hibiscus and Mallo differ significantly, both switches share the same material for their bottom housing: nylon. This uniformity impacts the overall sound experience of both switches, as the nylon bottom contributes to a deeper sound that is consistent across both models. The absorption qualities of nylon help create a duller and rounder sound profile that prevails when the key bottoms out. Thus, regardless of the differing top materials, both switches achieve a cohesive sound feedback during bottom-out moments. This similarity provides a unique blend of characteristics that allow users to experience a harmonious sound profile alongside the distinct tonal qualities presented by each top housing material.
Overall, the HMX Hibiscus and KTT Mallo illustrate how the interplay of different housing materials can shape the auditory and tactile experience of a keyboard switch. The Hibiscus's nylon top resonates with a fuller sound, while the Mallo's polycarbonate top produces a brighter tone, showcasing how material choice influences user perception and preference. However, the shared nylon bottom in both switches ensures that they offer a consistent base sound during keypresses, allowing users to appreciate the unique features of each switch while enjoying a similar experience at the point of actuation. This balance offers a versatile option for users who may lean towards varying preferences in sound profiles and aesthetic considerations.
Weight
The HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch present notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The Hibiscus features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the KTT Mallo switch has an unspecified actuation force but a bottom out force of 55 grams, which places it in the medium-light category. This indicates that while the Mallo may provide a firmer feel overall, its lack of specified actuation force makes a direct comparison challenging. However, based on the known bottom out forces, the Mallo is the heavier option, requiring more force to press down fully compared to the Hibiscus. As a result, for those who prioritize lighter switches for comfort, the Hibiscus would be the preferred choice, while those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience might lean toward the Mallo, despite the unknown actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, we find distinct differences that cater to different preferences in typing and gaming experiences. The Hibiscus has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it a more responsive option favored by gamers looking for quicker actuation times. In contrast, the Mallo features a longer travel distance of 4 mm, which provides a more pronounced feedback that some users may find more satisfying for typing. The difference of 0.5 mm means that users who prefer a more abrupt sensation will likely gravitate towards the Hibiscus, while those who enjoy a deeper travel will opt for the Mallo. Ultimately, the Hibiscus offers a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for fast-paced use, whereas the Mallo's longer travel promotes a different tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
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 HMX Hibiscus switch stands out with a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that provides an engaging auditory experience while typing. This character makes it particularly appealing for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound when they press the keys, potentially adding to the overall satisfaction of the typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo switch offers a neutral sound profile, producing a more subdued auditory experience. The Mallo's neutral and slightly dampened sound makes it versatile and suitable for various environments, whether at home or in an office setting, without dominating the soundscape.
When considering feel, the HMX Hibiscus switch is renowned for its ultra-light actuation force, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience that many users find delightful. This quality likely minimizes finger fatigue and allows for rapid keystrokes, making it ideal for extended typing sessions. Conversely, the KTT Mallo switches present a gentle tactility, characterized by a mild, feathery feel that is approachable and comfortable. This subtlety ensures users receive sufficient feedback without the switch being overwhelming, offering a pleasant balance that suits various typists, including both beginners and more experienced users.
In conclusion, while the HMX Hibiscus and KTT Mallo switches cater to slightly different preferences, they both prioritize comfort and typing enjoyment in their design. The Hibiscus excels in providing a dynamic auditory experience coupled with a super-smooth feel, making it ideal for enthusiasts looking for feedback and excitement in their typing. In contrast, the Mallo focuses on a versatile, understated presence both in sound and feel, appealing to those who prefer a balanced experience. Ultimately, users will find satisfaction in either switch depending on their individual preferences, with the Hibiscus offering an engaging auditory experience and the Mallo providing ease and subtlety in various typing contexts.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing style and the environments in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you prefer an ultra-light typing experience that emphasizes smoothness and speed, the Hibiscus switch is an excellent choice, especially for gaming or those who type for long periods without experiencing fatigue. Its crisp, clacky sound profile is satisfying, making it ideal for situations where acoustics are appreciated, such as personal gaming setups or home offices. On the other hand, if you value subtle feedback without disruptive noise, the KTT Mallo is the way to go. Its medium-light force and gentle tactility provide just enough resistance to inform you of your keystrokes without overwhelming your senses. This makes it suitable for professional environments or shared spaces, where a neutral sound profile ensures that you remain unobtrusive. Therefore, consider your specific needs and the atmosphere you'll be in to determine which switch will serve you best.
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