KTT Mallo vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Mallo and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The KTT Mallo is praised for its subtle tactility and medium-light typing feel, providing just the right amount of feedback without being overpowering. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is designed for those who value both tactile feedback and a silenced typing experience, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. While the Mallo boasts a neutral sound signature and a versatile nature, the Silent T1 offers a medium bump and padded bottom-out feel. 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
Yes
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mallo and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Mallo creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite both switches having polycarbonate top housings, the differences lie in the bottom housings. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings affect the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. This means that the KTT Mallo may offer a combination of a sharp, clear sound from the polycarbonate top housing and a deep, fuller sound from the nylon bottom housing, while the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) may provide a crisp sound from the polycarbonate top housing paired with a duller sound from the nylon bottom housing.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Mallo and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in each switch offers a unique auditory and tactile experience, with the Mallo offering a potentially sharper and fuller sound profile, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) may provide a crisper and rounder sound. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, ensuring a consistent sharp and clear sound, but it is the differences in the bottom housings that offer varied sound profiles for users to consider.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is evident that the Mallo has a lighter actuation force of None grams compared to the Silent T1's None grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Mallo requires 55 grams, which is considered medium-light, while the Silent T1 requires 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. This means that the Mallo will provide a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Silent T1 will offer a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces, with lighter forces being favored for prolonged use and heavier forces for a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This can result in a similar typing experience and feel for both switches, as the travel distance plays a significant role in how a switch feels when pressed. While both switches offer the same travel distance, other factors such as actuation force and sound levels may differentiate the overall typing experience between the two switches.
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 Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Mallo switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile that is suitable for a variety of typing environments. Its sound is moderate and not overpowering, making it a versatile choice for both beginners and advanced users. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch provides a muted sound that is softer and quieter than regular switches, perfect for noise-sensitive environments. While both switches offer different sound characteristics, they both cater to users looking for a more subdued auditory experience.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Mallo switch is described as feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle, providing a light and comfortable typing experience suitable for extended use. The switch offers a gentle resistance with a light typing feel, ensuring that fatigue is minimized during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is characterized as stepped, accented, and polished, offering a medium bump with prominent tactility that is not overwhelming. The switch also features a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience, ultimately catering to users who prefer a tactile typing experience.
Overall, the KTT Mallo switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mallo switch provides a balanced and versatile option with its neutral sound profile and feathery typing feel, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch caters to those looking for a tactile and silenced typing experience with its muted sound and accented tactility. Regardless of the differences in characteristics, both switches aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience for users based on their preferences. Whether you choose the Mallo or the Silent T1 (Shrimp), you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of performance and tactile feedback based on your unique typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, consider your preference for typing feel and sound profile. If you prefer a feathery and subtle typing experience with a neutral sound signature, the Mallo may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bump and a muted sound to use in noise-sensitive environments, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard.
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