TKC Kiwi vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TKC Kiwi and the Durock Koala mechanical keyboard switches, we see two excellent options for tactile switch enthusiasts. The TKC Kiwi is renowned for its medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, offering a satisfyingly snappy sound profile that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Koala provides a stepped tactility with a pronounced bump that doesn't span the entire keystroke, giving users a balance between tactile feedback and smooth typing. While both switches offer a unique typing experience, the Kiwi is factory lubed for a smoother feel out of the box, while the Koala provides a bit of resonance without being overly loud. 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and the Durock Koala offer distinct sound profiles and characteristics. The Kiwi's UHWMPE top housing provides a bright sound signature with resonant clacks, while the Koala's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for switches that utilize RGB lighting, offering an aesthetically pleasing design element. In contrast, the Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing also contributes to a bright sound signature, while the Koala's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature.
While the top housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and the Durock Koala offer different sound profiles, the bottom housing materials also play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience. The UHWMPE bottom housing of the Kiwi provides a bright sound signature, while the nylon bottom housing of the Koala creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The bottom housing material has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, influencing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the top housing material contributes more to the sound when releasing a key, highlighting the importance of both components in creating a well-rounded typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches like the TKC Kiwi and the Durock Koala can significantly impact the sound profile and feel of the typing experience. While the UHWMPE and polycarbonate top housings offer bright and sharp sound profiles, respectively, the nylon bottom housing of the Koala provides a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding the characteristics of each housing material is essential for customizing the typing experience to suit individual preferences. Whether opting for the bright and resonant clacks of UHWMPE or the clear, higher-pitched sound of polycarbonate, both the Kiwi and the Koala offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, it is evident that the Kiwi has a specified actuation force of 43 grams, while the Koala's actuation force is unknown. Both switches share a bottom out force of 67 grams, placing them in the medium-heavy category in terms of force required. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Kiwi may be the better choice due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Koala, since they both result in the same bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key using either switch, you will experience a similar level of travel distance. This makes them both suitable options for those who prefer a tactile switch with a standard travel distance. Overall, the TKC Kiwi and the Durock Koala offer a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance, providing users with a familiar feel regardless of which switch they choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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, both the TKC Kiwi and the Durock Koala tactile switches are described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. This means that they both offer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches, making them suitable for a variety of environments and preferences. Additionally, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the type of keyboard and keycaps used, so keep this in mind when considering the auditory experience.
Moving on to feel, the TKC Kiwi switch is recognized for its stepped and accented tactile feel, offering a nuanced typing experience with a medium-strong bump at the top of each keystroke. The switch is also polished, providing a smooth and refined typing feel with reduced friction. On the other hand, the Durock Koala switch also features a polished surface for smooth key travel, along with an accented and stepped tactile feel that offers a pronounced bump without being overwhelming. Additionally, the Koala switch is noted for its stiffness, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate compared to other switches.
In conclusion, both the TKC Kiwi and the Durock Koala tactile switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While both switches have low-pitched and neutral sound profiles, the Kiwi switch provides a slightly snappier sound experience compared to the Koala. In terms of feel, the Kiwi switch offers a polished and accented feel with a medium-strong bump, whereas the Koala switch offers a more pronounced tactile bump and a slightly stiffer typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preference for sound and feel, as well as the specific typing experience desired.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TKC Kiwi tactile switch or the Durock Koala tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press that delivers a snappy sound profile, the Kiwi may be the better choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a switch that is lightly factory lubed for a smooth typing experience out of the box, the Kiwi is a solid option. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that provides a pronounced bump without being overly loud, the Koala may be more suited to your liking. With a stepped tactility and a bit of resonance, the Koala offers a tactile experience that is not too intense but still satisfying. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics, so it's important to consider what qualities matter most to you when making your decision.
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