TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and Durock Koala both offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The TTC Gold Brown Pro is designed for those who enjoy a subtle, refined feedback as they type; its gentle tactile bump allows for an immersive typing experience without drawing too much attention to each keystroke. This switch is perfect for users who prefer a quieter typing environment, making it ideal for office settings or late-night work sessions. On the other hand, the Durock Koala strikes a balance by delivering a pronounced tactile bump that appeals to users who enjoy a more defined sensation without overwhelming noise. Its stepped tactility provides a satisfying feedback with a hint of resonance, making for an engaging typing experience that still remains relatively understated. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer the understated nuance of the Gold Brown Pro or the punchier feedback of the Koala. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Durock Koala, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice in material provides a similar auditory experience characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate not only enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound but also elevates the aesthetic appeal of the switches, particularly through their translucency that beautifully complements RGB lighting. As a result, users can expect comparable performance in terms of sound dynamics when utilizing these switches, especially in environments where RGB lighting is a feature.
On the other hand, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housing, which contributes significantly to the overall sound profile as well. Nylon is known for its softer properties, allowing it to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This leads to a deeper, fuller sound when typing—an experience that is consistent across both switch models. While the top housing lends itself to the distinct sounds produced during key releases, the nylon bottom housing provides a more profound impact on the bottom-out sound and tactile response. This duality ensures that users experience a well-rounded auditory sensation when using either the Gold Brown Pro or the Koala.
In conclusion, although the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Durock Koala differ in brand, the similarity in the choice of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing leads to comparable performance characteristics. Users can expect a clear, resonant sound for key releases paired with a deeper tone during keystrokes. The combination of these materials allows both switches to cater to users seeking a blend of clarity and fullness in sound, making either option a strong contender for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the distinct acoustic qualities achieved through this harmonious pairing of materials is what unites these two switches in their performance results.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, it's clear that they cater to different preferences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Brown Pro features an actuation force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option, which can be beneficial for those who type for extended periods, such as professionals or gamers. However, the bottom out force for the Pro is unknown, leaving a gap in understanding how it feels when the switch is fully pressed down. In contrast, the Durock Koala has an unspecified actuation force but boasts a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorized as medium-heavy. This heavier bottom out may appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience. Therefore, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro is lighter in terms of actuation, the Durock Koala is heavier upon bottoming out, offering distinct tactile experiences for different user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Durock Koala tactile switches, we find that the Gold Brown Pro has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Koala measures slightly longer at 4.0 mm. This means that the Gold Brown Pro offers a shorter travel distance, making it a more responsive option that may appeal to gamers seeking quick key presses. Conversely, the Durock Koala, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a deeper feel when pressing keys. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference: if you favor responsiveness, the Gold Brown Pro is the better option, while the Koala may be more suitable for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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, both the TTC Gold Brown Pro and Durock Koala tactile switches share a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. The Gold Brown Pro produces a gentle "thock" that is soft and unobtrusive, making it ideal for environments that prioritize quiet, such as offices or shared spaces. The Koala also features a subdued resonance, offering a somewhat more pronounced sound while remaining within a pleasant range. Both options ensure a satisfactory auditory experience without becoming overly disruptive, making them suitable for various settings.
When examining the feel of each switch, the TTC Gold Brown Pro stands out for its polished and silky typing experience, characterized by a smooth, refined finish that minimizes friction and enhances overall comfort during keystrokes. Its mild tactile bump provides gentle feedback, allowing users to type with confidence and ease. In contrast, the Durock Koala offers an accented feel, presenting a medium tactile sensation that strikes a balance between presence and subtlety. While both switches feature a stepped tactile design, the Koala is described as stiff, requiring more actuation force than the Gold Brown Pro, which appears marginally more approachable for lighter typing tasks.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Brown Pro and Durock Koala tactile switches deliver solid performance in terms of sound and feel, albeit with distinct characteristics. The Gold Brown Pro leans towards a more subdued and polished typing experience with a quiet sound profile, while the Koala strikes a balance with its moderately pronounced tactility and slightly louder resonance, making it an excellent choice for those who desire a more impactful typing sensation. Depending on your preferences between subtlety and presence, both switches will provide rewarding experiences tailored to various typing styles and environments.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Durock Koala tactile switch should align with your personal typing preferences and use case. If you seek a subtle and nuanced ride that keeps you focused without overwhelming you with pronounced feedback, then the TTC Gold Brown Pro is your go-to option. It excels in quiet environments, allowing you to type softly while enjoying a smooth and silky feel, complemented by a low-pitched, thocky sound that adds a satisfying depth without distractions. This makes it particularly suitable for office settings or shared spaces where you want to minimize noise or for those long typing sessions when you prefer a less intrusive tactile experience. On the other hand, if you desire a bit more feedback and character in each keystroke but still appreciate a middle ground, the Durock Koala might be more appropriate for you. With its medium-heavy bottom-out force and pronounced yet not overwhelming tactility, the Koala provides a vibrant typing experience that can enhance your enjoyment, whether for gaming or typing extensively. Its polished finish ensures smooth key travel while maintaining that engaging bump, making it a great choice if you appreciate a bit more prominence in feedback without excessive sound. In essence, your ideal switch comes down to how you prioritize subtlety versus engagement in your typing journey.
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