Durock Koala vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Koala and the Zuoce Lavender offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Durock Koala is a tactile switch that strikes a perfect balance for those who enjoy a pronounced bump without it being overpowering. With a stepped tactility and a bit of resonance, the Koalas provide a satisfying typing experience without being too loud. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender is a linear switch known for its exceptional smoothness thanks to its proprietary Ly blend. It offers an easy-to-press feel and a crisp, clacky sound signature that enhances each keystroke. Ultimately, deciding between these two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing style. 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
N/A
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Durock Koala and the Zuoce Lavender both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles, but they differ in their composition. The Koala features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the Lavender's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can be attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate versus the softer nature of POM plastic. However, both switches offer a pleasing and unique sound experience, just with different tones and characteristics.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Koala utilizes nylon, while the Lavender uses POM. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its absorption of more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, POM bottom housings also create a deep and muted sound profile. Despite the differences in the material compositions of the bottom housings, both switches offer a similar sound experience that is characterized by a deeper tone. This similarity suggests that regardless of the material used, the switches will provide a consistent sound profile that is pleasing to the user.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note how the top and bottom housings influence different aspects of the sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing is more influential on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when the key is released. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings contributes to the overall sound profile of the switch and showcases how the choice of housing material can have a significant impact on the user experience. Ultimately, whether it be polycarbonate and nylon or POM, both the Durock Koala and the Zuoce Lavender offer unique and enjoyable sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, it is clear that the Koala switch has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the Lavender switch's 53 grams. The actuation force of the Koala switch is not specified, whereas the Lavender switch has an actuation force of 48 grams. These differences suggest that the Koala switch may provide a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, while the Lavender switch may offer a lighter typing feel with its lower actuation and bottom out forces. This means that users who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Lavender switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Koala switch for similar results. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force levels.
Travel distance
The Durock Koala tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Koala's 4.0mm travel distance falls on the more traditional end of the spectrum, offering a standard keypress feel. On the other hand, the Lavender's 3.4 mm travel distance is on the shallower side, providing a quicker response time that may be preferred by gamers. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference - if you prefer a more responsive keypress, the Lavender may be the better option, while those who enjoy a deeper keypress experience may lean towards the Koala. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but with slightly different tactile feedback due to the variance in travel distance.
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 Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 Durock Koala tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral tone, providing a bass-heavy and mellow sound that is suitable for a wide range of users. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is known for its clacky sound signature, giving each keystroke a sharp and satisfying quality that is crisp and percussive. Depending on personal preference, the Koala may be more subdued in its sound profile, while the Lavender offers a more distinct and lively typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Durock Koala switch is described as polished, accented, stepped, and stiff, providing a refined typing experience with a moderate amount of tactility and smooth key travel. The Zuoce Lavender switch, on the other hand, is known for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. While the Koala may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced tactile bump and a stiffer feel, the Lavender is ideal for users seeking a light and effortless typing experience with minimal finger fatigue.
Overall, the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. While the Koala excels in providing a balanced tactile feedback and a low-pitched sound profile, the Lavender stands out for its smoothness and easy-to-press actuation. Both switches have their own strengths and can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on individual preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch that provides a satisfying bump without being too overwhelming, the Durock Koala is a great choice with its medium-heavy 67g bottom out force and stepped tactility. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and clacky linear switch with a lighter 53g bottom out force, the Zuoce Lavender is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a pronounced bump and medium-heavy feel (Koala) or a smooth and light actuation with a clacky sound (Lavender). Consider your typing preference and sound profile preference when choosing between these two switches.
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