TTC Brother vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch stand out as excellent options in the market. The TTC Brother is praised for its lightweight actuation of just 37g, providing a breezy and satisfyingly crunchy typing experience that will please clicky switch enthusiasts. In contrast, the Durock Koala strikes a balance with its stepped tactility, offering a pronounced bump without overwhelming the keystroke. While the Brother is known for its easy-to-press nature and distinct tactile bump, the Koala is appreciated for its polished feel and low-pitched resonance. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. However, let's delve deeper to allow you to make an informed decision on the best switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
17.5mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The TTC Brother and Durock Koala both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for switches that prioritize sound quality. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics when typing.
While the top housing of both the TTC Brother and Durock Koala is made of polycarbonate, they differ in the material used for the bottom housing. The Brother features a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Koala also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience with a duller and rounder sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches contributes to a more tactile and satisfying typing experience overall, enhancing the overall feel of the switches.
The combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the TTC Brother and Durock Koala showcases a balanced approach to switch design. The split between the qualities of each housing material allows for a dynamic typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with unique characteristics attributed to their respective housing materials, catering to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Durock Koala tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Koala has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the bottom out force of the Brother is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter keystroke may lean towards the Brother switch, while the Koala switch would be more suitable for those looking for a more substantial typing experience. In terms of weight, the lighter actuation force of the Brother may appeal to users looking for extended typing sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the Koala provides a more solid feel for typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock Koala tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Koala switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Brother switch. A shorter travel distance is generally preferred by gamers for faster response times, making the Brother switch a good option for those looking for quick key presses. On the other hand, the Koala switch with its longer travel distance may be more suitable for those who prefer a deeper and more deliberate key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch offers a satisfyingly crunchy sound that is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. This auditory experience is a favorite among clicky switch enthusiasts, delivering clear and precise clicks with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Durock Koala tactile switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Additionally, the Koala switch is described as having a neutral sound that makes it suitable for various typing environments. Both switches provide unique sound experiences that cater to different preferences, with the Brother offering a more traditional clicky sound and the Koala providing a smoother, more subdued auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is highlighted by its easy-to-press nature, offering a light actuation force of just 37g. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. The switch also features a stepped tactile bump that strikes a balance between being felt distinctly and not overpowering the overall keystroke. On the other hand, the Durock Koala tactile switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The switch also offers an accented tactile bump that is prominent yet not overwhelming, giving users a satisfying tactile feedback without being too aggressive. Additionally, both switches have a stepped feel that provides a mild tactile sensation with some pre-travel and post-travel.
Overall, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Brother switch stands out with its crunchy clicky sound and easy-to-press nature, making it a favorite among those who enjoy distinct auditory feedback and light keystrokes. On the other hand, the Koala switch provides a low-pitched, neutral sound profile and a polished, accented tactile feel that caters to users looking for a more refined typing experience. Whether you prefer the traditional clicky sound of the Brother or the smooth tactility of the Koala, both switches offer quality performance that will enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the TTC Brother clicky switch or the Durock Koala tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a lightweight and crispy tactile experience with a satisfying click, the Brother switch may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a pronounced bump that doesn't span the entire keystroke, the Koala switch could be more to your liking. Both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you in a keyboard switch before making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Brother and Koala switches will depend on your individual typing preferences and desired typing experience.
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