Huano Grape Orange vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the Huano Grape Orange and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Grape Orange and the Durock Koala each offer unique benefits tailored to different typing styles. The Grape Orange is celebrated for its remarkably light actuation force of just 40g, which allows for an effortlessly smooth and fast typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those who spend long hours typing or gaming without fatigue. In contrast, the Durock Koala presents a perfectly balanced alternative with its tactile nature; featuring a stepped tactility, it delivers a distinct bump during key presses that caters to users who enjoy feedback without overwhelming resistance. The Koala’s resonance adds a satisfying auditory element without being intrusive, striking a balance between tactile feel and sound. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the fluidity of the Grape Orange or the reassuring tactility of the Koala, both switches have compelling features. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Partial box
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Huano Grape Orange and the Durock Koala switches exhibit a notable similarity in their top housing, as both utilize polycarbonate. This choice of material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for each switch. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate allows for a clear and resonant audio experience, making it an ideal option for users who prioritize acoustics in their typing. Moreover, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switches, particularly when paired with RGB lighting. As a result, both the Grape Orange and the Koala can achieve a similar auditory and visual experience due to their shared top housing material.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both switches is made from nylon, which means they share another aspect of their sound profile. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. The softer composition of nylon, as opposed to harder plastics, dampens vibrations, leading to a rounder and more muted sound when typing. This characteristic of the bottom housing impacts the typing experience significantly, as it is responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel during use. Consequently, while the top housings of the Grape Orange and Koala provide crispness and clarity, the nylon bottom housings create a balanced contrast that enriches the overall auditory experience.
Ultimately, the combination of a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing in both switches results in a unique blend of sound profiles. Users can expect a harmonious typing experience, where the sharpness of the polycarbonate contrasts effectively with the fuller tones created by the nylon. As a result, when either switch is engaged, typists will appreciate the clarity provided by the top housing upon key release, coupled with the depth produced by the bottom housing during key presses. This synergy between materials ultimately defines the acoustic footprint of both the Huano Grape Orange and the Durock Koala, allowing for an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience with notable auditory characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, the differences in their actuation and bottom out forces are notable. The Grape Orange features a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it minimizes finger fatigue. In contrast, the Durock Koala does not have a specified actuation force, but it does have a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a more substantial resistance when fully pressed down. This makes the Koala more appealing to users who prefer a stronger push feel and a more tactile typing experience. Overall, the Grape Orange is the lighter option, while the Koala is the heavier choice, catering to different preferences in typing experiences.
Travel distance
The Huano Grape Orange linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Koala tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Grape Orange the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, as shorter distances generally allow for faster actuation. On the other hand, the Koala's 4 mm travel distance aligns more with traditional preferences, offering a more substantial feel that some users may find more comfortable and satisfying. Those who prefer deeper keystrokes and a more tactile experience may favor the Koala switch, while those aiming for speed may opt for the Grape Orange. Ultimately, the difference in travel distances suggests that players should choose based on their personal preferences for responsiveness versus depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Grape Orange has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Grape Orange for $2.79.
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 Huano Grape Orange switch offers a quiet typing experience, as it is generally muted and not overly loud, making it particularly suitable for environments where noise could be an issue. This switch’s sound profile leans towards being neutral, which allows for a pleasant auditory feedback that doesn't distract from the typing experience. The Durock Koala switch, on the other hand, exhibits a low-pitched resonance, delivering a more bass-heavy sound that contributes to a rich auditory experience. Coupled with its neutral tones, this switch invites a balanced sound profile that works well regardless of whether it's used for typing or gaming, though it may still resonate more than the Grape Orange.
When it comes to feel, the Grape Orange switch is characterized by its ultra-light 40g actuation force, offering an effortless typing experience ideal for extended use. This switch's smoothness is a standout feature, though its specific textural qualities are not distinctly defined. In contrast, the Durock Koala switch is a polished option with a smooth keystroke and an accented tactile bump that provides a satisfying feedback without being overwhelming. The stepped tactility of the Koala adds complexity to its feel, allowing for a nuanced typing experience that features subtle pre-travel and post-travel sensations. This makes it feel more dynamic and engaging compared to the effortlessly smooth experience of the Grape Orange.
In conclusion, while both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences, the Huano Grape Orange is ideal for users seeking a lighter, quieter option for extensive typing, whereas the Durock Koala strikes a balance between smoothness and tactile feedback, appealing to those who enjoy a bit of resistance and engagement in their keystrokes. Ultimately, depending on personal preference, either switch can deliver a satisfying typing experience, highlighting the vast range of tactile and auditory sensations that mechanical switches can offer.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you gravitate towards a light, effortless typing experience that is well-suited for long hours at the keyboard, the Grape Orange's remarkably low actuation force and smooth key travel make it the perfect companion for extended typing or gaming sessions. Its sound profile is likely subtle, making it a good option if you work in a shared space or simply prefer a quieter environment. Conversely, if you enjoy a pronounced tactile feedback that strikes a balance between comfort and responsiveness, the Durock Koala's medium-heavy bottom-out force and stepped tactility provide a satisfying experience without being overly strenuous. Its low-pitched sound gives it a more substantial presence, adding depth to your keystrokes while maintaining a refined and polished feel. In summary, choose the Grape Orange for a lightweight, fluid typing experience or the Koala for a more tactile, engaging interaction with each keypress. Consider what feels best for you, and let your typing style guide your decision.
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