Durock Koala vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Durock Koala and KTT Mallo are both tactile mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences in terms of typing experience. The Koala is known for its middle ground approach, offering a pronounced bump without being too overpowering, while also providing a bit of resonance without being overly loud. On the other hand, the Mallo excels in subtlety and finesse, with a gentle tactility that offers just enough feedback without being overwhelming. While the Koala is characterized as polished, low-pitched, and accented, the Mallo is described as feathery, mild, and neutral. Choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing environment you'll be using them in. 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
67g
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
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
Both the Durock Koala and the KTT Mallo feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in housings is favored for its stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. While both switches use the same material for their top housings, the differences in their design and construction may still result in distinct typing experiences.
On the other hand, the Durock Koala and the KTT Mallo differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Koala featuring nylon and the Mallo also utilizing nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings can result in a duller and rounder sound compared to those with stiffer bottom housings. Despite both switches featuring the same nylon material for their bottom housings, other factors such as switch design and keycap choice can still influence the overall typing experience.
In switches where the top and bottom housings are different, the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact 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 means that even though the Durock Koala and KTT Mallo both feature polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings, the overall typing experience may still differ based on how these materials interact with the rest of the switch components.
Weight
The Durock Koala tactile switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch offer different weight options for users to consider. The Koala has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Mallo has a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams. The actuation force for both switches is not specified. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience to prevent fatigue during long typing or gaming sessions, the Mallo may be the better choice with its lighter bottom out force. On the other hand, those looking for a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Koala with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Koala and the KTT Mallo tactile switches have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will get similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This can provide a consistent typing experience across different keyboards using these switches. Ultimately, whether you choose the Koala or the Mallo, you can expect a tactile switch with a travel distance of 4mm, offering a satisfying typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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 Durock Koala and KTT Mallo switches both offer a neutral sound profile, which means they are moderate in volume and actuation force, making them versatile for various typing environments. The Koala is described as having a low-pitched sound, giving off a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Mallo's sound is classified as subdued, producing a dampened sound when pressed. When it comes to feel, the Koala switch provides a polished and accented typing experience with stepped tactility, offering a refined finish and a moderate level of tactility that is not overwhelming. On the other hand, the Mallo switch is noted for its feathery and mild typing feel, requiring little exertion and providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches feature a stepped tactile feel, allowing users to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel during keystrokes. Overall, while the Koala offers a more pronounced bump and a bit of resonance in sound, the Mallo provides a balanced and subtle tactility with a neutral sound signature. Depending on personal preference, individuals can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, tailored to their specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, consider your preference for typing force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a low-pitched and polished sound profile, opt for the Koala switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force with a neutral and subdued sound profile, the Mallo switch would be a better fit for you. Ultimately, the Koala offers a more pronounced tactility with a bit of resonance, while the Mallo provides a gentle tactility without overpowering sound. Choose based on your personal typing preferences and environmental considerations.
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