KTT Mallo vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the KTT Mallo, a tactile switch, and the Dareu Snow, a linear switch. The Mallo switch is praised for its subtlety and finesse in design, offering a gentle tactility that provides feedback without being overwhelming. With a medium-light typing feel and a neutral sound signature, the Mallo switch is a well-balanced choice for typists in various environments. On the other hand, the Snow switch stands out for its innovative use of POK material in both the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature. While the Mallo switch is described as ['Feathery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Stepped', 'Subdued', 'Subtle'], the Snow switch is characterized as ['Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', 'Bouncy']. Each switch offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mallo and the Dareu Snow, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than stiffer plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. The use of nylon in both bottom housings ensures that users can experience a similar typing sound and feel when using either switch.
However, when it comes to the top housing materials, the Mallo features a polycarbonate housing while the Snow utilizes a POK material. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for switches with clear housing that showcase RGB lighting. On the other hand, POK material offers smooth and clacky switches with exceptional durability and shock resistance. While both materials have their own unique qualities, it can be said that the Mallo's polycarbonate top housing emphasizes a clearer and resonant sound, while the Snow's POK top housing focuses on smoothness and durability.
In terms of functionality and typing experience, the housing materials of both switches play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switches. The split between the qualities of the bottom and top housing materials means that the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Whether it be the polycarbonate top housing of the Mallo or the POK top housing of the Snow, both switches offer unique typing experiences based on the material used in their housing components.
Weight
The KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch have distinct differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Mallo has a lighter actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light. In comparison, the Snow has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as medium. The Mallo offers a lighter typing experience with a smoother actuation, ideal for those who prefer a gentler touch. On the other hand, the Snow provides a more substantial typing experience with a bit more resistance, appealing to users who enjoy a firmer keystroke. Both switches provide unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can choose the one that best suits their individual needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it is evident that the Mallo has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Snow's 3.3 mm. A shorter travel distance allows for quicker response times, making it a popular choice among gamers who value speed and precision. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying and tactile typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches have their own advantages, with the Mallo offering a more substantial travel distance and the Snow providing a shorter and snappier feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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, providing a moderate and dampened sound when pressed. This makes it suitable for various typing environments without being too overpowering. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch produces a thocky, neutral, and low-pitched sound, creating a deep and rich tone that adds a satisfying element to typing. Both switches offer unique sound signatures that cater to different preferences, with the Mallo being more subtle and versatile, while the Snow provides a deeper and more pronounced typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Mallo switch is described as feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle, offering a light and gentle typing experience with a balanced tactile feedback that is comfortable for extended use. In contrast, the Dareu Snow switch is characterized as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation that adds a lively feel to typing. While the Mallo focuses on a more refined and subtle typing experience, the Snow switch offers a more dynamic and responsive feel that can enhance typing speed and accuracy.
Overall, both the KTT Mallo and Dareu Snow switches excel in different aspects of mechanical keyboard design. The Mallo switch shines in its subtle tactility, moderate actuation force, and neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option for a wide range of users. On the other hand, the Snow switch stands out with its innovative use of POK material, thocky sound signature, and bouncy feel, providing a unique typing experience that is both satisfying and dynamic. Depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, newcomers to mechanical keyboards can expect to have a pleasant and customized typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider the nuances of each switch and how they align with your preferences. If you value a balanced typing experience with subtle tactility and a neutral sound signature, the Mallo may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth linear switch with a deeper, thocky sound profile, the Snow switch might better suit your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how the typing feel, sound, and overall design of each switch align with your personal preferences and typing needs.
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