Bsun Cinnamon Pink vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cinnamon Pink and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch offer distinct experiences for keyboard enthusiasts. The Cinnamon Pink is praised for its delicate balance, providing a clacky yet not overwhelming sound with a smooth action for a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Koala offers a stepped tactility with a pronounced bump, catering to those who enjoy a punchy keystroke without being too intense. While the Cinnamon Pink is described as clacky, creamy, and easy-to-press, the Koala is known for its polished, low-pitched, and stepped attributes. Both switches have their unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences, so it ultimately depends on what type of typing experience you are seeking. 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
42g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.45 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Cinnamon Pink uses POM for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deep and muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock Koala utilizes polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, creating a sharper and clearer sound profile on top, while the bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. While both switches provide unique sound profiles, the Cinnamon Pink offers a consistent experience throughout each keystroke, whereas the Koala provides a dynamic sound experience depending on whether you are pressing or releasing a key.
In terms of aesthetics, the Cinnamon Pink's POM material does not offer translucency like the Koala's polycarbonate top housing, which is advantageous for those who prefer a more opaque appearance. However, if RGB lighting is a priority, the Koala's polycarbonate top housing would be more suitable due to its ability to effectively transmit light. Additionally, the use of nylon for the Koala's bottom housing allows for a softer and more absorbent material, resulting in a rounder and duller sound compared to the Cinnamon Pink's POM bottom housing.
Overall, the choice between the Bsun Cinnamon Pink and the Durock Koala ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. While the Cinnamon Pink offers a consistent and pleasing deep sound throughout each keystroke, the Koala provides a more dynamic and sharp sound experience due to its combination of polycarbonate and nylon materials. Whether you prioritize a unique sound profile, translucency for RGB lighting, or a specific feel when typing, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to various preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch provide different typing experiences. The Cinnamon Pink has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Koala, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Koala has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the Cinnamon Pink's 42 grams. These differences mean that the Cinnamon Pink will provide a lighter and more effortless typing experience, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Koala will offer a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force.
Travel distance
The Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.45 mm, while the Durock Koala tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Koala switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cinnamon Pink. The Cinnamon Pink's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the Koala's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual preferences, but the Koala switch would be considered the longer option in this comparison. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cinnamon Pink has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cinnamon Pink for $3.83.
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 Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch offers a distinctively clacky and crisply percussive sound when pressed, striking a balance that is not too overwhelming. On the other hand, the Durock Koala tactile switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various users and settings. Both switches can provide an enjoyable auditory experience depending on personal preferences and setup.
Moving on to feel, the Cinnamon Pink switch is lauded for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with minimal resistance. In contrast, the Koala switch is described as polished, accented, stepped, and stiff, providing a refined and medium-tactile feel with distinct stages in the keystroke. Both switches cater to different typing preferences, with the Cinnamon Pink focusing on smoothness and ease of pressing, while the Koala emphasizes distinct tactility and a bit more resistance.
In conclusion, the Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer a clacky and smooth typing experience like the Cinnamon Pink or a low-pitched and medium-tactile feel like the Koala, both switches promise an engaging and comfortable typing journey. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, ensuring that you can achieve similar levels of satisfaction with either option based on your specific requirements.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a light and smooth typing feel with a delicate clacky sound, opt for the Cinnamon Pink. On the other hand, if you prefer a middle ground between tactile feedback and smooth key travel with a pronounced bump and a bit of resonance, the Koala would be the better choice for you. The Cinnamon Pink is ideal for those who prioritize a comfortable and engaging typing experience with a distinctive sound, while the Koala is suitable for individuals seeking a balance between tactility and smoothness in their keystrokes. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences to ensure a satisfying keyboarding experience.