KTT Mallo vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Mallo and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) represent two distinct yet compelling options tailored to different preferences. The KTT Mallo is a tactile switch that stands out for its subtlety and finesse, providing a gentle tactile bump that's noticeable without being overpowering. Its medium-light feel and neutral sound signature make it an excellent choice for typists seeking versatility in various typing environments. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is a linear switch designed to deliver a weightier typing experience. Featuring a unique PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem that creates a crisp, higher-pitched resonance, the Xinhai switch is perfect for those who prefer a smooth and unencumbered keystroke. Both switches cater to different typing styles—whether you favor tactile feedback or a linear push, each has its strengths. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Mallo and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches exhibit notable differences, particularly in their top housings. The Mallo features a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper and more resonant sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This characteristic not only enhances the clarity of the sound produced by the switch but also allows for the effective diffusion of RGB lighting, thanks to the translucency of the polycarbonate. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) employs a nylon top housing, which leads to a deeper and rounder sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound more readily, resulting in a muted auditory experience that contrasts sharply with the crispness afforded by polycarbonate. While both materials serve the function of sound modulation, they do so in fundamentally different ways, creating distinct auditory characteristics for each switch.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both the KTT Mallo and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) utilize nylon, making this aspect of their design identical. Nylon is renowned for its ability to absorb sound, which contributes to a fuller, deeper sound profile across both switches. This similarity means that regardless of the differences at the top housing level, the bottom housing of both switches will provide a consistent sound experience characterized by a well-rounded auditory presence. Consequently, users can expect a similar bottom-out sound and feel, as the effects of the nylon housing are prominent during key presses.
In summary, the KTT Mallo and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches differ significantly in their top housing materials, with the Mallo’s polycarbonate providing clarity and brightness, while the Xinhai (Heavy) embraces a more subdued tone with its nylon composition. However, both switches converge on the use of nylon for their bottom housings, ensuring that the deeper sound profile is a shared element. Ultimately, these material choices create unique soundscapes that cater to different preferences, allowing users to experience a range of auditory feedback depending on their preferred switch design.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Mallo switch has an unknown actuation force, making it difficult to compare this aspect directly. However, its bottom out force is measured at 55 grams, which is classified as medium-light. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch has a firmer actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, placing it in the medium category. This indicates that while the Xinhai switch requires more effort to fully press compared to the Mallo, the actual typing experience may feel lighter or less strenuous with the Mallo, making it potentially more suitable for long typing sessions. Conversely, for users who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, would likely be the better choice. Overall, the KTT Mallo is the lighter option, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offers a heavier and more pronounced force in both actuation and bottoming out.
Travel distance
The KTT Mallo tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference of 0.6 mm showcases the Mallo as the option that offers a more pronounced tactile feedback, which some users may find more satisfying, particularly for typing. On the other hand, the Xinhai's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or those who prefer quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. While both switches serve different preferences in typing experience—depth versus responsiveness—the Mallo is clearly the longer option, and if you lean toward a more traditional feel, it may be the better choice for you.
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 Xinhai (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai (Heavy) 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 considering the sound profile of the KTT Mallo tactile switch, one finds a neutral character that delivers a balanced acoustic experience. The subdued nature of the Mallo creates a dampened sound with each keystroke, making it suitable for both quiet environments and more active settings, as it won't dominate the auditory landscape. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch is crafted with a unique PA12 top housing that contributes to a softer acoustic profile, complemented by a POM stem for a crisper, higher-pitched resonance. While the specifics regarding the sound signature of the Xinhai are less detailed, the implication is that it may provide an engaging auditory experience that differs from the more muted Mallo.
In terms of feel, the KTT Mallo switches are designed to cater to typists seeking a light and comfortable experience. They offer a feathery typing action that reduces finger fatigue during extended use, paired with a mild and subtle tactile feedback that strikes a middle ground for most users. The stepped tactile feel imparts a distinctive two-stage sensation, allowing typists to feel the switch engagement without being overly pronounced. The characteristics of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, however, remain unspecified, leaving its unique tactile sensation unknown.
Ultimately, when comparing the KTT Mallo with the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch, it's clear that both offer distinct advantages tailored to different preferences. The Mallo’s neutral and subdued sound alongside its gentle typing feel make it a suitable choice for a variety of environments and users. In contrast, while the Xinhai's nuanced acoustic design introduces an element of crispness, its tactile feedback remains undefined. Therefore, if you appreciate the versatility and mild touch of the Mallo, you may find the Xinhai appealing for a potential exploration of a heavier variant within the linear category.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended usage scenarios. If you prioritize a balance of feedback and comfort during typing, the Mallo is an excellent option. Its medium-light actuation force and subtle tactile bump make it suitable for long typing sessions, whether for work, gaming, or general use. Additionally, its neutral sound signature and feathery feel allow for versatility in various environments, making it a great choice in shared spaces or quiet offices. On the other hand, if you favor a slightly more substantial key feel and appreciate a heavier bottom-out force, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch is engineered for a more pronounced yet sophisticated experience. The POM stem provides a crisp, distinct resonance that can enhance your keystrokes, making it ideal for those who prefer tactile precision and aren’t overly concerned about sound. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches comes down to whether you seek a gentle, versatile typing experience with the Mallo or a robust, precise interaction with the Xinhai.
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