HMX Lotus vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus and KTT Mallo are two popular options to consider. The HMX Lotus is a linear switch known for its medium weight of 50g bottom out and bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo is a tactile switch that embodies subtlety and finesse in its design, offering a gentle tactility and medium-light typing feel. While the Lotus excels in providing a delightful typing experience with its bouncy feel, the Mallo strikes a balanced chord for typists with its subtle feedback and 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
POM
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
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the KTT Mallo differ significantly in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Lotus features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Mallo's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, both switches have nylon bottom housings, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile.
In terms of typing experience, the housing materials of the Lotus and Mallo impact the overall sound profile and feel of the switches. The softer nylon top housing of the Lotus contributes to a rounder and duller sound when typing, while the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Mallo creates a clearer and more resonant sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of both switches enhances the overall sound profile by absorbing more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller typing experience. Despite the differences in top housing materials, the nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent sound profile between the two switches.
When comparing the impact of top and bottom housing materials on typing experience, it becomes evident that each component plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switch. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. In the case of the Lotus and Mallo switches, the differences in top housing materials contribute to distinct sound profiles, with the nylon bottom housing serving to unify the typing experience by providing a consistent deep and full sound. Ultimately, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing materials comes down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetic preferences.
Weight
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Mallo tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. Both switches have a bottom out force, with the Lotus requiring 50 grams and the Mallo requiring 55 grams. The Lotus is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Mallo has a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing feel for users who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and force requirement.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Lotus linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the KTT Mallo tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Lotus has a shorter travel distance compared to the Mallo. A shorter travel distance, like that of the Lotus, is favored by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance, like that of the Mallo, can provide a more satisfying key press for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Lotus linear switch offers a bright and resonant typing experience, providing an auditory delight with every keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo tactile switch presents a neutral sound profile that neither dominates nor fades into the background, making it a versatile option for different typing environments. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics, catering to different preferences and typing scenarios. Whether you prefer the bouncy, resonant sound of the Lotus or the subtle, neutral sound of the Mallo, you can achieve satisfying results depending on your personal sound preference, choice of keyboard, and keycaps.
Regarding feel, the HMX Lotus switch provides a super bouncy feeling with a medium weight of 50g bottom out, delivering a tactile experience that enhances typing enjoyment. In contrast, the KTT Mallo switch offers a feathery and mild typing experience, striking a balance between tactile feedback and light actuation force. The Mallo switch also features a subtle tactility that provides just enough feedback without being overpowering, contributing to a comfortable typing experience for extended use. Whether you prefer a more pronounced tactile feel with the Lotus or a gentle typing experience with the Mallo, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences and needs.
In conclusion, the HMX Lotus linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Lotus switch provides a bright and resonant sound with a bouncy typing feel, the Mallo switch offers a subtle and neutral sound profile with a feathery, mild typing experience. Depending on your sound and feel preferences, as well as your typing environment and typing habits, you can choose between the two switches to enhance your typing experience. Whether you opt for the vibrant sound and bouncy feel of the Lotus or the subdued sound and feathery touch of the Mallo, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience that caters to different preferences and needs in the realm of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a light and bouncy typing experience with a bright, resonant sound, the Lotus switch with its 50g bottom out force may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing feel with gentle tactility that provides just enough feedback without being overwhelming, the Mallo switch with its 55g bottom out force could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you desire. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and needs.
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