Gateron CM vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CM and the Durock Koala. The Gateron CM is a linear switch that breaks away from convention with its full nylon housing, providing a richer and deeper sound signature. Known for its impeccable factory lube job and lengthened, dual-staged spring, typing on the CM switches promises a smooth and bouncy experience. On the other hand, the Durock Koala is a tactile switch that offers a middle ground for users who want a noticeable bump without it being too overwhelming. With a stepped tactility and a bit of resonance, the Koalas provide a satisfying typing experience without being overly loud. Each switch is unique in its own right, catering to different preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and the Durock Koala both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a similar deep, fuller sound profile when typing. Due to nylon's softer nature, it absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This consistency in material choice for the bottom housing ensures that both switches offer a comparable typing experience in terms of sound.
However, where the switches differ is in their choice of top housing material. The Gateron CM features a nylon top housing, leading to a sound profile that is softer and deeper, while the Durock Koala uses polycarbonate, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. These contrasting sound profiles highlight the impact that top housing material can have on the overall typing experience, with the CM offering a more subdued sound compared to the Koala's clearer and resonant sound.
In summary, the Gateron CM and the Durock Koala showcase how the choice of housing material can greatly influence the sound profile of a switch. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a deep and fuller sound, the differing top housing materials of nylon and polycarbonate give each switch its own unique auditory characteristics. Whether you prefer a softer, rounder sound or a sharper, crisper sound, these switches demonstrate how material selection plays a vital role in creating a customized typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, it is evident that the CM has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Koala, whose actuation force is unspecified. However, both switches have a similar medium-heavy bottom out force, with the CM having a bottom out force of 63.5 grams and the Koala at 67 grams. The CM switch provides a lighter typing experience with a slightly lower actuation force, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Koala switch offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference in the distance each switch travels. The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Koala tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Gateron CM offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Durock Koala provides a longer travel distance that may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press with added depth. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their respective travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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 Gateron CM linear switch offers a bassy and thocky experience with a low-pitched tone, providing a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Durock Koala tactile switch is described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. Both switches provide a pleasant auditory experience, but the CM switch leans towards a deeper and richer sound, while the Koala switch offers a more moderate and versatile tone.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is known for its buttery, polished, and creamy typing experience, with a frictionless sensation that makes typing effortless and enjoyable. Conversely, the Durock Koala tactile switch provides a polished and accented feel, with a slightly stiffer touch due to its stepped design. Both switches aim to deliver a smooth and refined typing experience, but the CM switch focuses more on a seamless and uniform sensation, while the Koala switch offers a balanced level of tactility without being overwhelming.
Overall, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a deep and rich sound profile with a smooth and buttery typing experience, the Gateron CM linear switch would be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a more moderate sound profile with a balanced level of tactile feedback and a polished feel, the Durock Koala tactile switch would be a great choice. Both switches excel in their own unique ways, providing users with a satisfying keystroke experience tailored to their preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and bouncy typing experience with a rich and deep sound profile, then the Gateron CM linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a noticeable tactile bump that is not too overwhelming, along with a moderate sound profile, then the Durock Koala tactile switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize smoothness and sound quality (CM) or tactility and a balanced sound profile (Koala) in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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