KTT Darling vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Darling, a linear switch, and the Durock Koala, a tactile switch, one can immediately notice the distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Darling offers a typing experience that is chewy and substantial, with a bouncy and springy responsiveness to each keystroke. In contrast, the Koala delivers a perfect mix of punchy keystrokes with a stepped tactility that provides a pronounced bump without being overly loud. While the Darling is known for its high-pitched and clacky sound, the Koala offers a more polished and low-pitched typing experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, making it crucial to understand your typing style and preferences when choosing between them. 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
45g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Durock Koala both share polycarbonate for the top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is ideal for switches with clear housings, as it allows for RGB lighting to shine through. However, the difference lies in the bottom housing material, with the Darling featuring a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Koala also utilizes nylon for a similar effect. Despite the same material used for the bottom housing, each switch may still offer slightly different typing experiences based on design and construction.
In terms of sound profile, the Darling's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound, absorbing more sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate top housing. Similarly, the Koala's nylon bottom housing also absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that contrasts with the crisper sound produced by the top polycarbonate housing. While both switches aim to provide a quality typing experience with their housing materials, the slight variations in sound may cater to different preferences depending on the user's desired sound and feel.
When considering the overall typing experience, the split between the top and bottom housing materials in the Darling and Koala switches plays a significant role. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. While both switches may share similarities in their housing materials, the different combinations of polycarbonate and nylon create unique typing experiences that cater to individual preferences for sound and feel. Ultimately, users may find that one switch better suits their typing style based on the combination of housing materials used.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch show clear differences in weight. The Darling has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Koala's unknown actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Darling requires 53 grams to fully press down, while the Koala has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Darling would be the better option, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without as much finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Koala provides a more robust and substantial typing feel due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing pressure and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Durock Koala tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Koala being on the longer side. Gamers may prefer the Darling for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can lead to faster response times. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Koala for its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you prefer.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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 KTT Darling linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched properties, producing a sharp and resonant sound that is both engaging and satisfying. On the other hand, the Durock Koala tactile switch offers a more low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a mellow tone without being overly loud. The Koala is a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, while the Darling is perfect for individuals who enjoy a more pronounced and lively auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Darling linear switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like sensation with each keystroke. This bounciness adds a touch of liveliness to the typing experience, making it feel responsive and dynamic. On the other hand, the Durock Koala tactile switch is described as polished, accented, stepped, and stiff. These qualities indicate a smooth, refined finish with a moderate amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The stepped feature provides a two-stage tactile feel, enhancing typing precision without being overly stiff.
Overall, the KTT Darling linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Darling excels in providing a clacky, high-pitched sound with a bouncy typing sensation, while the Koala offers a low-pitched, neutral sound with a polished, accented, stepped, and stiff feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience based on individual preferences, ensuring that users will get distinct results depending on their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a smooth and bouncy keystroke with a high-pitched, resonant sound, the Darling may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a pronounced bump and a low-pitched, neutral sound, the Koala might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference in terms of feel and sound, so make sure to test them out if possible before making your final choice.
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