KTT Mallo vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Mallo and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean are two popular options that cater to different preferences. The KTT Mallo is praised for its subtle tactility, medium-light typing feel, and neutral sound signature, making it a versatile choice for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean offers a linear typing experience, providing a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump. While the Mallo focuses on finesse and feedback, the Dustproof Silent Ocean prioritizes a silent and consistent typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Mallo and Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, the nylon bottom housings of the Mallo and the Dustproof Silent Ocean offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing material, the differences lie in their nylon bottom housings. The split qualities of the housing materials affect the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Mallo provides a balance of sharpness and depth, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. In contrast, the Dustproof Silent Ocean leans more towards a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its nylon bottom housing, creating a more subdued overall typing experience compared to the Mallo.
In conclusion, while the KTT Mallo and Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean share certain housing materials, their differences in bottom housing material result in distinct typing experiences. The Mallo offers a balance of sharpness and depth, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound profile. Depending on personal preference for typing sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to tailor their mechanical keyboard experience to their liking.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch show some key differences. The Mallo has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light in terms of pressure required for typing. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, giving it a medium-heavy feel. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Mallo, while those who enjoy a more substantial push may opt for the Dustproof Silent Ocean. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, providing users with options to suit their typing needs.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, we see that the Mallo has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Mallo has a longer travel distance compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean. In terms of typing experience, the longer travel distance on the Mallo may provide a more satisfying and tactile feel, while the shorter travel distance on the Dustproof Silent Ocean may be preferred by those looking for a quicker response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 KTT Mallo tactile switch is praised for its neutral and subdued sound profile, making it a versatile option suitable for various typing environments. This switch strikes a balance between a moderate actuation force requirement and a dampened sound when pressed, providing a pleasant typing experience without being too loud or distracting. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch's sound characteristics are unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Mallo switch is commended for its feathery and mild typing experience, offering a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The tactile feedback in this switch is described as subtle, providing just enough feedback without being overly pronounced. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch is unknown, making it challenging to assess its tactile qualities and typing experience in comparison to the Mallo.
Overall, the KTT Mallo tactile switch stands out for its balanced tactility, light typing feel, and neutral sound signature, making it a well-rounded choice for typists looking for a versatile and comfortable typing experience. In contrast, the qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch remain unknown, so it is important to consider other factors such as personal preference, typing style, and typing environment when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics, and depending on individual preferences, users can expect similar results in terms of performance and satisfaction with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you value a gentle tactile feedback with a medium-light typing feel and a versatile, neutral sound signature, the Mallo may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a linear switch with a silent operation, the Dustproof Silent Ocean could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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