KTT Mallo vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Mallo and the HMX Swift. The Mallo is praised for its subtle tactility and medium-light typing feel, offering a balanced experience for typists who appreciate a gentle feedback without being overwhelming. Its neutral sound signature makes it a versatile choice for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Swift stands out with its deep sound profile and silky smoothness, thanks to its full nylon housings, while also boasting a delicate 42g actuation force. The Swift is known for its bright sound signature, but these switches offer a unique twist with their smoother 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
42g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Mallo and the HMX Swift show differences in terms of sound profiles and material properties. The Mallo features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, while the Swift's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound thanks to its softer nature. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile despite having different top housings. While the Mallo's nylon bottom housing contributes to a duller and rounder sound, the Swift's nylon bottom housing also absorbs sound well, creating a similar effect.
In terms of aesthetics, the Mallo's polycarbonate top housing is translucent and ideal for RGB lighting, while the Swift's nylon top housing offers a classic look. Both switches benefit from the unique properties of their respective top housings, with the Mallo emphasizing clarity and resonance in sound, and the Swift focusing on absorption and a fuller sound profile. Despite these differences, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent deep and full sound profile when typing. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings allows for a dynamic typing experience, where each press and release of a key results in a unique sound and feel based on the materials used.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of typing. The differences between the polycarbonate top housing of the Mallo and the nylon top housing of the Swift showcase the impact that material properties can have on sound characteristics. However, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent deep and full sound profile. Whether looking for a sharper, crisper sound with polycarbonate or a deeper, fuller sound with nylon, both the Mallo and the Swift offer unique typing experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that the Mallo has a higher bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the Swift's 50 grams, making the Mallo slightly heavier in this aspect. However, the actuation force of the Swift at 42 grams is lighter than that of the Mallo, which has a force of None grams. This means that the Swift requires less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Mallo. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Swift may be the preferred choice, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Mallo. Overall, the weight of the switch plays a significant role in determining the typing experience, with lighter switches being more suitable for extended use and heavier switches providing a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Mallo tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Mallo offers a slightly longer press compared to the Swift. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Mallo being on the higher end and the Swift being closer to the shallow end. For gamers looking for a faster response time, the Swift may be preferred due to its shorter travel distance. However, those who prefer a more tactile and substantial press may opt for the Mallo with its slightly longer travel distance. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and desired keypress feel.
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 HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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 is known for its neutral and subdued qualities, providing a moderate sound profile that is versatile for various typing environments. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch is characterized by a clacky sound profile, offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Depending on your preference for sound, the Mallo will provide a more subtle and balanced typing experience, while the Swift will give you a more vibrant and percussive sound.
In terms of feel, the KTT Mallo switch offers a feathery and mild typing experience, with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and provides a gentle resistance. The Mallo also features a subtle tactile feel that is not overpowering, making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch provides an easy-to-press and feathery typing experience, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a bouncy sensation with a creamy smoothness. If you prefer a light and responsive typing feel, the Swift switch may be more to your liking.
Overall, both the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mallo provides a balanced and versatile typing experience with a neutral sound profile and gentle tactility, while the Swift offers a deeper sound profile and smooth actuation with a light typing feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and typing experience, both switches can provide satisfying results that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your typing preferences. If you prefer a medium-light typing feel with a subtle tactile feedback and neutral sound signature, the Mallo would be an excellent choice for a balanced and versatile typing experience. On the other hand, if you favor a light actuation force with a silky smooth typing feel and a deeper sound profile, the Swift might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a gentle tactility and neutral sound (Mallo) or a smooth and light typing feel with a deeper sound profile (Swift). Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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