KTT Mallo vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Mallo and the SP-Star Meteor Orange mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both switches offer a tactile typing experience with a focus on subtlety and finesse. The KTT Mallo switch is known for its gentle tactility that provides just enough feedback without being overwhelming, paired with a medium-light typing feel and a neutral sound signature. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch boasts a soft and seductive tactility, along with a neutral sound profile. While both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, the Mallo leans towards a more subdued and stepped feel, whereas the Meteor Orange has a thocky and polished sensation. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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 housing materials of the KTT Mallo and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches offer different characteristics when it comes to sound profile and overall typing experience. The Mallo utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, the sound produced is clear and resonant, making it ideal for users who prefer a more distinct typing sound. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Mallo and Meteor Orange switches utilize nylon, which brings similar qualities to the typing experience. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and sound absorption properties. This means that regardless of the switch brand, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel when it comes to the bottom housing material. However, the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall sound profile may vary slightly, with the bottom housing contributing more to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more of an impact when releasing a key.
Overall, the choice between a polycarbonate top housing in the Mallo and a nylon top housing in the Meteor Orange comes down to personal preference. Those who prefer a sharper and crisper sound profile may opt for the Mallo, while users looking for a deeper and fuller sound may lean towards the Meteor Orange. Both housing materials offer unique characteristics that can enhance the typing experience, making it important to consider individual preferences when selecting a switch for a keyboard setup.
Weight
The KTT Mallo tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch both have an actuation force of None grams, making them equally light in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Mallo requires 55 grams, while the Meteor Orange requires 57 grams, making the Meteor Orange slightly heavier. The Mallo is considered medium-light in terms of bottom out force, while the Meteor Orange remains in the same category but slightly on the heavier side. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience for those who prefer a lighter touch, but for those who enjoy a bit more resistance, the Meteor Orange may provide a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get consistent typing experiences when using either switch. The equal travel distance also means that there is no difference in the tactile feedback or overall feel of the switches in terms of travel distance. Overall, whether using the KTT Mallo or the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, users can expect similar results in terms of the distance traveled when typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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, both the KTT Mallo and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most environments and preferences. The Mallo switch offers a subdued sound that is not overpowering, while the Meteor Orange switch has a thocky sound that is deep and satisfying. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both switches provide a gentle typing experience. The Mallo switch is described as feathery and mild, offering a comfortable and light typing feel that reduces finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switch is noted for its mild and polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. These qualities make both switches suitable for extended typing sessions.
Overall, the KTT Mallo and SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switches offer similar subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches provide a gentle tactility, a balanced typing experience, and a neutral sound profile. Whether you choose the Mallo for its feathery feel or the Meteor Orange for its polished finish, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch. Ultimately, your choice between the two may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, consider your preference for typing feel and sound. If you value a subtle and balanced tactile feedback with a neutral sound profile, the KTT Mallo switch would be the way to go. Conversely, if you prefer an exquisitely gentle tactility with a thocky sound profile, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch may be more appealing to you. Both switches offer a medium-light typing experience, so it ultimately boils down to your personal preference for tactile feedback and sound signature. Whatever your choice may be, both switches provide a comfortable and pleasant typing experience for various typing environments.
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