Dareu Holly vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Holly and KTT Mallo switches both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Holly switch is known for its medium 50g actuation force and a sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo switches are praised for their subtle tactility and medium-light typing feel, offering a gentle feedback without being overpowering. While the Holly may appeal to those seeking a more pronounced typing experience, the Mallo provides a versatile option with its neutral sound signature. 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
50g
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
The Dareu Holly and KTT Mallo both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share the same material for their top housings, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of the Holly offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Mallo's nylon bottom housing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches utilizing nylon for the bottom housing.
Despite having different materials for their top and bottom housings, both the Dareu Holly and KTT Mallo aim to provide a balanced typing experience by combining the unique qualities of polycarbonate and nylon in their respective housings. By splitting the qualities of each housing material between the bottom and top of the switch, users can feel the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This approach allows for a more nuanced typing experience that takes advantage of the distinct characteristics of both polycarbonate and nylon.
In conclusion, the Dareu Holly and KTT Mallo showcase how different housing materials can impact the sound and feel of mechanical switches. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, the use of nylon in the Holly's bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Mallo's nylon bottom housing. By combining the strengths of each material in their housings, both switches offer a unique typing experience that balances sharpness and depth in sound, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it becomes evident that they have contrasting actuation and bottom out forces. The Holly has an actuation force of 50 grams, making it lighter than the Mallo, whose actuation force is unknown. On the other hand, the Mallo has a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Holly's bottom out force remains unspecified. The weight of a switch is crucial as it affects typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may lean towards the Holly, while users seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Mallo. Ultimately, understanding the actuation and bottom out forces of each switch allows users to choose the one that best suits their preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, they both offer a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance, giving users a consistent feeling when pressing down on the keys. This means that whether you choose the Holly or the Mallo, you can expect to get similar results in terms of keypress feedback and overall typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly 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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Holly tactile switch stands out with its unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, creating a distinct typing experience. The sound profile of the Holly switch is characterized by a lively and sharp noise when pressed, appealing to users looking for a more audible and vibrant typing sound. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo tactile switch offers a more subdued and neutral sound signature, striking a balance between being noticeable without being overpowering. The Mallo's sound profile is quieter compared to the Holly, making it a versatile choice for various typing environments where a more subtle typing sound is preferred.
When it comes to feel, the details provided for the Dareu Holly tactile switch are unknown, but the KTT Mallo tactile switch is described as offering a feathery and mild typing experience. The Mallo switch is exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the mild tactile feedback of the Mallo switch provides a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The gentle resistance and light typing feel of the Mallo switch make it suitable for shared spaces due to its subtleness.
In conclusion, the Dareu Holly tactile switch excels in providing a unique sound signature with its chirpy and clacky elements, appealing to users looking for a more lively typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo tactile switch stands out for its subtle and neutral sound profile, offering a quieter typing experience suitable for various environments. While the Holly switch offers a more vibrant sound, the Mallo switch provides a gentle and comfortable typing feel. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, but users can expect a balanced and distinctive typing experience with either choice, depending on their sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Holly tactile switch or the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences in typing experience. If you are looking for a switch with a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, along with a medium 50g actuation force, the Holly switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a gentle tactility with a medium-light 55g bottom out force and a neutral sound signature, the Mallo switch might be more suitable for your typing needs. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and actuation force to make the best decision based on your personal preferences and typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique characteristics, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences.
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