TTC Iron vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Iron linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch stand out as popular options with unique characteristics. The TTC Iron is praised for its smooth and light actuation, accompanied by a distinct clacky sound that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Koala offers a balanced tactile feedback with a noticeable bump without being overly loud. While the Iron switch provides easy-to-press keys for swift typing sessions, the Koala switch delivers a polished keystroke experience with a satisfying punch. 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
41g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The TTC Iron and the Durock Koala both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, with the Iron featuring a POM top and bottom housing while the Koala uses polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom housing. The POM top housing of the Iron creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Koala produces a sharper and crisper sound. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Iron results in a similarly deep sound profile, whereas the nylon bottom housing of the Koala offers a fuller and rounder sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the Koala's polycarbonate top housing stands out due to its translucency, making it a popular choice for users interested in RGB lighting effects. In comparison, the Iron's POM top housing may not offer the same visual appeal, but it still provides a unique sound experience. Additionally, the use of nylon in the Koala's bottom housing showcases a classic switch housing material that is known for creating a deeper sound profile. Despite their differences, both switches utilize their respective housing materials to enhance the overall typing experience for users.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it is evident that each material brings its own qualities to the table. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, with the softer nylon in the Koala contributing to a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released, with the stiffer polycarbonate in the Koala creating a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Iron and the Durock Koala will depend on the user's preference for sound profile, aesthetics, and typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Iron linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Durock Koala tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Iron is 50 grams, which is still lighter than the Koala's bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that the Iron switch will provide a lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Koala switch will offer a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Iron linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, the Iron has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Koala has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Iron being slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the Iron for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial key press may lean towards the Koala with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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 Iron linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound profile that is sharp, snappy, and percussive, adding a satisfying auditory element to typing. On the other hand, the Durock Koala tactile switch offers a low-pitched sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow, providing a different auditory experience. Both switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and settings.
In terms of feel, the TTC Iron linear switch boasts an easy-to-press nature, with gentle resistance that requires minimal force for activation, making typing effortless and comfortable. In contrast, the Durock Koala tactile switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Koala switch also provides a stepped tactility, adding a unique feel to each keystroke. While the Iron switch is mild in its tactile experience, the Koala switch is accented, providing a medium amount of tactility that is not overwhelming.
Overall, the TTC Iron linear switch excels in providing a clacky sound signature and easy-to-press feel, appealing to users seeking precision and swift typing experiences. On the other hand, the Durock Koala tactile switch offers a different tactile experience with a low-pitched sound, polished feel, and stepped tactility, catering to those who prefer a tactile bump without being too aggressive. Whether you choose the Iron or the Koala, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience based on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the TTC Iron linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you value a light and smooth typing experience with a clacky sound, the Iron switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a stepped tactility and a low-pitched sound, the Koala switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing needs and preferences.
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