Kailh BCP vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the Kailh BCP and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh BCP and the Durock Koala offer two distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Kailh BCP is celebrated for its creamy, viscous feel that delivers a delightful bounce, combined with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile that enhances the typing experience, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy an engaging auditory feedback. In contrast, the Durock Koala caters to enthusiasts who appreciate a tactile response without overwhelming noise, featuring a stepped tactility that provides a pronounced but controlled bump, striking a balance between feedback and subtlety. While the BCP is perfect for users seeking a lively and expressive keypress, the Koala suits those who prefer a more nuanced and composed 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
52g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Kailh BCP and Durock Koala switches, the most notable difference lies in their top housing materials. The Kailh BCP features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This quality allows nylon to absorb sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a rounder sound that many typists find pleasing. In contrast, the Durock Koala utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is significantly stiffer. This rigidity contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback with each keystroke. Understanding these distinctions can guide individuals in selecting switches that align with their typing preferences.
On the other hand, both the Kailh BCP and Durock Koala feature nylon as their bottom housing material, which is a classic choice across many mechanical switches. The nylon bottom housing in both switches yields a similar deep and full sound profile, reinforcing the notion that the bottom housing has a substantial impact on the overall typing experience. Since both switches use nylon in this context, users will experience that familiar, rounded sound quality at bottom-out, regardless of the differences in the top housing materials. This shared characteristic can lead to similar acoustic results in certain scenarios, emphasizing how the bottom component’s material can unify the auditory experience even when the top differs.
Ultimately, the interplay between the top and bottom housing materials in these switches illustrates how varying materials can impact sound characteristics in different ways. While the Kailh BCP produces a soft and mellow sound due to its nylon top housing, the Durock Koala benefits from the clarity offered by polycarbonate. However, since both share nylon in the bottom housing, the tactile and auditory feedback upon bottoming out remains consistent between the two. This combination allows users to appreciate the specific sound profiles each switch offers while still enjoying the familiar qualities that nylon provides at the base, making it possible to achieve comparable results in terms of bottom-out sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The BCP switch has a defined actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy option suitable for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. In contrast, the Koala switch does not specify an actuation force; however, it does have a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is slightly heavier than that of the BCP. As a result, while both switches provide a medium-heavy experience, the lack of an actuation force for the Koala makes it difficult to fully compare. The BCP switch is the lighter option between the two based on the available data, catering to users who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Koala switch, with its heavier bottom out force, may appeal more to users who seek a firmer resistance during keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference in their travel distances. The Kailh BCP has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option between the two, while the Durock Koala features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is more traditional and offers a deeper feel. Gamers may favor the Kailh BCP for its shorter travel distance, as it allows for quicker responses, while users who prefer a more substantial key press might lean towards the Durock Koala for its longer distance, which provides a more satisfying and pronounced feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference for depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
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 comparing the sound characteristics of the Kailh BCP linear switch to the Durock Koala tactile switch, there are distinct differences. The BCP switch boasts a signature poppy and clacky sound profile that adds an engaging auditory element to the typing experience. This sound can be quite pronounced and lively, making it suitable for users who enjoy a more vibrant acoustic feedback. Conversely, the Koala switch produces a typically lower-pitched sound that is more neutral. This gives it a bass-heavy and mellow tone, which tends to resonate without being overly loud, making it a great choice for environments where noise control is a consideration.
In terms of feel, the BCP offers a creamy, viscous, and elastic typing experience, characterized by an overall bouncy sensation. This smooth and fluid motion can make typing feel effortless, ideal for those who appreciate a flowing keystroke. On the other hand, the Koala switch presents a polished and refined tactile experience, featuring a stepped bump that establishes a clear tactile feedback without being overwhelming. The tactile sensation is accentuated yet smooth, providing a level of resistance that requires slightly higher actuation force, appealing to users who enjoy feeling that pronounced bump while maintaining a fluid typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch offer unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to varying preferences. The BCP's poppy sound and bouncy feel contrast with the Koala's low-pitched, neutral sound and softened tactile feedback. If you desire a lively typing experience, the BCP may resonate with you more, whereas if you prefer a more controlled yet still engaging experience, the Koala would be an excellent choice. Thus, your selection may depend on how you prioritize sound and feel in your mechanical keyboard journey.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and use case. If you favor a smooth and lively typing experience that feels elastic and responsive, the Kailh BCP could be the right switch for you. Its medium-heavy actuation force complements a poppy sound profile, making it great for both serious typing sessions and casual gaming, especially if you enjoy the thrill of a clacky auditory feedback during your keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that combines tactile feedback with a more refined and polished feel, the Durock Koala is an excellent choice. With a stepped tactility that provides a noticeable bump without overwhelming your fingers, it strikes a balance that suits both typing and gaming scenarios. Plus, its low-pitched sound profile makes it a versatile option suitable for quieter environments like offices or shared spaces. So, assess how you want your keyboard to feel and sound, and choose the switch that aligns best with your personal preferences.
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