KTT Mallo vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the KTT Mallo and the SP-Star Duck mechanical keyboard switches, both tactile options offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences. The Mallo is praised for its subtle tactility and medium-light typing feel, providing just enough feedback without being overpowering. On the other hand, the Duck switches are known for their gentle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile. While the Mallo offers a neutral sound signature that suits various typing environments, the Duck switches are categorized as 'Buttery' and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, but ultimately the choice between them may come down to 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
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The KTT Mallo and the SP-Star Duck both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, the Mallo uses nylon for its bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile.
In terms of aesthetics and sound profile, both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in the top housing. The sharp and crisp sound characteristics are shared between the Mallo and the Duck, enhancing the typing experience with a clear and resonant sound. However, the difference in bottom housing material between the two switches gives them distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mallo's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound, while the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the KTT Mallo and the SP-Star Duck highlights the impact of different plastics on the typing experience. While both switches benefit from polycarbonate's qualities in the top housing, the variation in bottom housing material results in unique sound profiles. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound with nylon like the Mallo or a sharper and crisper sound with polycarbonate like the Duck, the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience of these switches.
Weight
The KTT Mallo tactile switch and SP-Star Duck tactile switch both have an actuation force of None grams. However, the KTT Mallo has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly lighter than the SP-Star Duck with a bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that the Mallo switch will require less force to bottom out compared to the Duck switch, providing a lighter typing experience. Some users may prefer the Mallo for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where a lighter touch is desired. On the other hand, the Duck switch offers a bit more resistance with its medium bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a heavier touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference based on individual typing style and preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. When comparing the two switches, it is apparent that they offer a similar tactile experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a moderate amount of travel distance, allowing users to feel a satisfying key press when typing. This similarity in travel distance means that users can expect consistent results in terms of key feel and typing experience when using either the KTT Mallo or the SP-Star Duck tactile switch.
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 Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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
In terms of sound, both the KTT Mallo and SP-Star Duck switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most typing environments. The Mallo switch additionally has a subdued sound, providing a more subtle sound signature compared to many other switches. On the other hand, the Duck switch does not have this specific characteristic mentioned. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Mallo switch is described as having a feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle typing experience. These qualities indicate a light actuation force, gentle typing feel, and a light yet noticeable tactile bump throughout the keystroke. On the other hand, the Duck switch offers a mild, buttery, and polished typing feel. This implies a smooth and refined typing sensation with reduced friction and effortless key travel. Both switches provide a comfortable and approachable typing experience suitable for extended use.
In conclusion, both the KTT Mallo and SP-Star Duck switches offer a balanced and versatile typing experience with gentle tactility and moderate sound profiles. While the Mallo switch may have a more subdued sound and a variety of feel descriptors, the Duck switch provides a buttery and polished typing feel not mentioned for the Mallo. Ultimately, both switches are suitable choices for typists looking for a tactile switch that offers a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, you should consider the subtle differences in feel and sound they offer. If you prefer a slightly lighter typing experience with a balanced tactility and a neutral sound profile, the KTT Mallo switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more subdued tactility with a clean and crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck switch may be more suitable for you. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing style and preferences.
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