KTT Mallo vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mallo and Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) stand out as top contenders in the tactile switch category. The KTT Mallo excels in subtlety and finesse, offering a gentle tactility that provides just enough feedback without being overwhelming. With a medium-light typing feel and a neutral sound signature, the Mallo is a well-balanced choice for a variety of typing environments. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is all about maximum tactility, boasting a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack while typing. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and appeal, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in choosing the right one for you. 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
67g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mallo and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. The use of polycarbonate in housings creates a sharp, high-pitched sound profile in the Mallo, whereas the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a deeper and more muted sound. Both materials provide unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Mallo offering a crisper sound due to polycarbonate's stiffness, while the POM T1 (Sunflower) provides a more pleasing deep tone. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for integrating RGB lighting, while POM offers a more opaque look.
On the other hand, the Mallo features a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) utilizes a POM bottom housing, which also contributes to a pleasing and unique deep sound profile. Both switches benefit from the qualities of their respective bottom housings, with nylon offering a duller and rounder sound, while POM adds to the rich and muted sound of the POM T1 (Sunflower). Despite the differences in material, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience with their distinct sound profiles.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Mallo and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) will come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. While the Mallo's housing materials provide a sharper and crisper sound, the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a deeper and more muted tone. Both switches showcase the unique properties of polycarbonate and POM in their top and bottom housings, resulting in distinct typing experiences. Whether you prefer the stiffer and more resonant sound of polycarbonate or the softer and fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, we can see that the Mallo has a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the POM T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams. This makes the Mallo lighter in terms of force required to fully press the key compared to the POM T1, which is heavier. Both switches have an actuation force of None grams, meaning that in terms of triggering a keystroke, they will provide similar results. The choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences; those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Mallo, while those seeking a more substantial feel may opt for the POM T1. Ultimately, the weight of the switch plays a crucial role in determining the typing experience, with lighter switches being more suitable for extended typing sessions and heavier switches providing a more robust typing feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting the two switches, their travel distance is one area where they are identical. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the keys travel when pressed. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a consistent travel distance, allowing for smooth and accurate keystrokes. Overall, whether you choose the Mallo or the POM T1 (Sunflower), you can be assured of a satisfying typing experience with a consistent travel distance throughout.
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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 KTT Mallo switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile. This means it provides a moderate sound that is not overpowering, making it suitable for a variety of typing environments. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch has a resonant and neutral sound profile, which gives it a higher-pitched and immersive sound experience. Both switches offer different sound characteristics, catering to individual preferences based on the typing environment and personal sound preference.
In terms of feel, the Mallo switch is known for its feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle characteristics, providing a light and gentle typing experience with a balanced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is described as sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating, offering a strong and crisp tactile bump that is distinct with each keypress. These differences in feel cater to different typing styles and preferences, allowing users to choose based on their desired typing experience.
Overall, the KTT Mallo switch offers a more subtle and balanced approach to tactile feedback and sound, making it a versatile option for various typing needs. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch provides a more pronounced and sharp tactile feedback, along with a resonant sound profile, creating a more immersive typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Mallo and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches, consider your preferences for actuation force, tactility, sound, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force with gentle tactility and a neutral or subdued sound profile, the Mallo switch would be ideal for you. On the other hand, if you seek a medium-heavy bottom out force with sharp tactility and a resonant or neutral sound profile, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal typing experience and which characteristics align best with your needs and preferences.
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