TTC Flame Red vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch to the Durock Koala tactile switch, there are distinct differences in both feel and sound that set them apart. The Flame Red is renowned for its stunning light diffuser, making it perfect for those who prioritize aesthetics in their RGB backlit keyboards. Typing on these switches offers a smooth, weighty feel with a clacky sound profile, categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Durock Koala strikes a balance for those seeking a tactile experience without overpowering feedback. It provides a noticeable bump during keystrokes that is not overly aggressive, along with some resonance without being too loud. Categorized as 'Polished', 'Low-pitched', 'Accented', 'Neutral', 'Stepped', and 'Stiff', the Koala offers a unique typing experience. 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
54g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Durock Koala, it is evident that they both use nylon for their bottom housing. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Therefore, when it comes to typing on switches with nylon bottom housings, users can expect a duller and rounder sound overall. Despite other differences between the two switches, the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing guarantees a similar typing experience in terms of sound.
On the other hand, the top housing materials of the Flame Red and Koala switches differ significantly, with the Flame Red utilizing nylon and the Koala using polycarbonate. The nylon top housing of the Flame Red creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Koala produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound profile, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. This contrast in top housing materials showcases the impact that different plastics can have on the overall sound and feel of a switch.
When understanding how housing materials can affect the overall typing experience of a switch, it's essential to consider the split between top and bottom housings. The qualities each housing material brings to the switch will largely dictate the sound profile and feel of typing on the switch. The bottom housing, responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, will showcase the qualities of the nylon material shared by both switches. Conversely, the top housing will have a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key, highlighting the distinct differences between the Flame Red's nylon and the Koala's polycarbonate top housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, it is evident that the Flame Red is lighter in both aspects compared to the Koala. The Flame Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Koala has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 67 grams, which categorizes it as medium-heavy. This means that the Flame Red requires less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out compared to the Koala. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience to minimize fatigue during extended use, the Flame Red would be the better option. However, for individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push force, the Koala would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. This means that users can expect a similar tactile experience when using either switch. The comparable travel distance of both switches ensures that typing on either keyboard will feel consistent in terms of keypress depth and feedback. However, it is worth noting that the TTC Flame Red and Durock Koala switches differ in their key feel and actuation force, with the Flame Red being a linear switch and the Koala being a tactile switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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 Flame Red linear switch offers a neutral profile that is suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. On the other hand, the Durock Koala tactile switch provides a low-pitched sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow, giving it a distinct auditory experience. Both switches have their unique sound characteristics, so the choice between them would depend on individual preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Flame Red linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, giving users a gentle and smooth sensation when typing. On the other hand, the Durock Koala tactile switch is also polished, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, it offers an accented and stepped tactile feel, providing a moderate amount of tactility without being overwhelming. The Koala switch also has a stiff feel, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate compared to the Flame Red. Overall, both switches offer a different tactile experience, with the Koala providing more pronounced and distinct tactile feedback.
Taking all the available information into account, the Flame Red linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Flame Red is best suited for those who prefer a smooth and polished typing experience, while the Koala is ideal for users who enjoy a more pronounced and tactile feedback while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. However, both switches provide quality performance and can result in a satisfying typing experience for users.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Flame Red linear switch or the Durock Koala tactile switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a visually stunning switch with a smooth and clacky typing experience that is ideal for RGB keyboards, then the Flame Red may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a pronounced bump, a bit of resonance, and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Koala tactile switch might be more suited to your taste. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
