TTC Ice vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the fundamental differences between linear and tactile options can significantly influence your typing and gaming experience. The TTC Ice switch is a prime example of a linear switch, designed for a smooth and responsive feel that appeals to gamers and typists alike. Its crystal-clear transparent design not only aesthetically enhances your keyboard but also elevates the overall typing experience with a satisfying sound upon bottoming out. In contrast, the Durock Koala switch caters to those who appreciate a tactile experience, offering a unique stepped tactility that delivers a pronounced bump without overwhelming the user. This balance allows for responsive feedback while maintaining a lower noise profile, making it suitable for both work and play. While the Ice switches emphasize a seamless, fluid keystroke, the Koalas introduce a deliberate tactile sensation that can enhance typing accuracy. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Ice and Durock Koala exhibit both similarities and differences that significantly influence their respective sound profiles and overall performance. Both switches feature polycarbonate in their top housings, which is a significant factor that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's inherent stiffness allows for a more resonant acoustic, making these switches particularly appealing to users who favor clear, bright keystrokes paired with RGB lighting. Given that both switch tops utilize the same material, it is reasonable to anticipate a similar auditory experience when actuating the switches, particularly regarding the sound produced when the key is released.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials of the TTC Ice and Durock Koala diverge significantly, which affects their sound profiles and tactile feedback. The Ice employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing, which continues the crisp sound profile created by the top. This uniformity in material enhances the clarity and resonance throughout the entire switch. On the other hand, the Koala's nylon bottom housing introduces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs sound rather than amplifying it, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience. Thus, while the Ice maintains a cohesive sound across both housings, the Koala presents a more nuanced sound signature due to the contrasting materials, resulting in differing tactile sensations when bottoming out.
In summary, while the top housings of both the TTC Ice and Durock Koala utilize polycarbonate to achieve a bright and clear sound, their bottom housings create distinct outcomes. The Ice maintains a uniform sound signature with polycarbonate fittings, promoting clarity and resonance, while the Koala’s nylon bottom softens the auditory response and offers a fuller feel. This division highlights the importance of housing materials in keyboard switches; the top's stiff polycarbonate facilitates sound clarity, while the bottom's nylon dampens and rounds out the auditory profile. Users may find that their choice of switch aligns with their personal preferences for auditory feedback and tactile sensation, underscoring the critical role of material choice in switch performance.
Weight
The TTC Ice linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, influencing user experience in distinct ways. The Ice switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium. In contrast, while the Koala is known to have a bottom out force of 67 grams, its actuation force remains unspecified. This indicates that the Koala likely has a heavier feel, particularly when fully pressed, making it more suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In terms of weight, the TTC Ice switch is lighter compared to the Koala, which may appeal to individuals who favor prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, those who enjoy a softer keystroke would likely lean towards the Ice switch, while those desiring a firmer, more definitive feel might find the Koala more to their liking.
Travel distance
When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, we find a notable difference in their travel distances. The Ice switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Koala comes in at 4 mm. This makes the Ice the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that some gamers prefer for quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Koala's longer travel distance of 4 mm provides a more substantial tactile feedback, which may be favored by those who appreciate a deeper press for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, if you prioritize rapid response times, the TTC Ice is the better choice; however, if you value a hearty depth to your key presses, the Durock Koala would likely suit you better.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Ice has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice for $5.99.
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 TTC Ice linear switch delivers a satisfying bottom-out sound that strikes a balance between subtlety and a pleasing auditory feedback. This sound enhances the overall typing experience, making it enjoyable for both gaming and daily tasks. In contrast, the Durock Koala tactile switch produces a low-pitched sound characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow profile, complemented by a neutral tone. This combination creates a versatile auditory experience that fits well in various environments, whether at home or in an office setting. While both switches offer distinct auditory characteristics, your choice may depend on personal preference for a more pronounced typing sound versus a softer, more neutral ambiance.
In terms of feel, the TTC Ice switch provides a smooth and responsive typing experience suitable for users who favor an unencumbered keystroke. This sleek action translates to effortless key presses, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a fluid typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Koala switch features a stepped tactility that introduces an accented feel, offering a pronounced bump without overwhelming the user. With its polished finish and mild stiffness, the Koala allows for reduced friction and smooth travel, adding a layer of tactile feedback that many users appreciate. Thus, while the Ice emphasizes smoothness without any tactile feedback, the Koala strikes a balance between smoothness and tactility, catering to different typing preferences.
In summary, the TTC Ice linear and Durock Koala tactile switches present distinctive auditory and tactile experiences tailored to varying preferences in keyboard performance. The Ice showcases a smooth typing experience paired with pleasing sound, making it ideal for those who value ease of use and subtle feedback. Conversely, the Koala's pronounced tactile bump and rich sound profile offer a more engaging experience for users who enjoy a bit of texture in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you lean towards a smoother, linear action or a tactility that adds a bit more dimension to your typing experience. Each switch caters to different needs, ensuring that you can find the right fit for your keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, your personal preferences and intended usage scenarios play a pivotal role. If you're seeking a switch that offers a smooth, responsive typing experience with a premium sound profile, the Ice is a fantastic choice. Its 60g bottom-out force makes it versatile for both gaming and daily tasks, appealing to those who appreciate a linear feel without tactile interruptions. The crystal-clear design of the Ice also provides a visually striking element to your keyboard. On the other hand, if you enjoy that satisfying tactile feedback with a defined bump but prefer something that isn’t overly taxing to type on, the Koala's medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67g presents a balanced option. Its stepped tactility offers a pronounced bump without overwhelming you, making it ideal for both casual and focused typing sessions. Additionally, the polished feel of the Koala helps ensure a smooth experience that complements its tactile nature. Ultimately, your choice boils down to whether you favor a seamless linear response or a tactile sensation that adds character to your keystrokes.
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