KTT Ash Gray vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Ash Gray and the Durock Koala both offer unique features that cater to different typing preferences. The Ash Gray is renowned for its subtle yet satisfying tactile feedback, striking a balance between a light touch and crisp actuation. In contrast, the Koala provides a more pronounced bump in its keystrokes, offering a middle ground for those who prefer a tactile response with a bit more punch. While the Ash Gray is characterized as 'easy-to-press' and 'mild', the Koala is described as 'polished', 'low-pitched', and 'stiff'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different typing styles and preferences. 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
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and the Durock Koala both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound compared to other plastics. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches designed to use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Ash Gray and the Koala also both utilize nylon bottom housings, which produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches.
While both switches share similar housing materials, the difference in top and bottom housings can affect the overall sound and feel of the switch. When pressing down on either the Ash Gray or the Koala, the qualities of the bottom housing will be most prominent, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a larger impact on the sound when releasing a key, highlighting the differences between the two housing materials. Despite these distinctions, both switches offer a unique typing experience with their combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
In conclusion, the Ash Gray and the Koala may have similar polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings, but the way these materials are utilized in each switch can lead to differences in sound and feel. The stiffness of polycarbonate creates a clear and resonant sound, while the softness of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller typing experience. By understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall sound profile of the switches, users can choose the one that best suits their preferences for typing sound and feel.
Weight
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Durock Koala tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Ash Gray has a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is lighter than the Koala's bottom out force of 67 grams, making the Koala the heavier option. The Ash Gray provides a medium-light typing experience, while the Koala offers a medium-heavy feel. This means that the Ash Gray switch would be more suitable for those looking for a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Koala switch would be more appealing to users who prefer a firmer and more substantial keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock Koala tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Ash Gray offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Koala provides a longer travel distance, which may give a more satisfying and substantial feeling when typing. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4 mm being the most common. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
The Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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 Ash Gray and the Durock Koala differ in their profiles. The Ash Gray is considered to have a neutral sound, suitable for a variety of settings and users. On the other hand, the Koala is described as having a low-pitched sound, offering a deeper and more mellow tone. Both switches are versatile in terms of sound, with the Ash Gray being more moderate and the Koala leaning towards a bass-heavy profile.
In terms of feel, the Ash Gray and the Koala also showcase distinct characteristics. The Ash Gray is known for its easy-to-press nature, providing a gentle resistance that minimizes finger fatigue and enhances typing comfort. It is also described as having a mild feel, offering a safe and approachable typing experience for most users. On the other hand, the Koala switch is polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. It is also accented, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the Koala is stepped, offering a more pronounced bump that is not present throughout the entire keystroke. However, it is also considered stiff, requiring more force compared to other switches.
Overall, the KTT Ash Gray and the Durock Koala offer unique sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. The Ash Gray provides a moderate and tactile response with an easy-to-press feel, while the Koala offers a more pronounced bump and a polished, accented typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver satisfying results in your typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more subtle tactile feedback, the Ash Gray switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a more pronounced tactile bump, the Koala switch might be more suitable. Additionally, if you prefer a neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press typing feel, the Ash Gray switch would be a good match. Alternatively, if you prefer a low-pitched sound profile and a polished, accented, stepped, or stiff typing feel, the Koala switch may better suit your preferences. Consider these factors carefully to choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and needs.
Mentioned in this article
