Durock Koala vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Koala and the KTT Lightning, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs. The Durock Koala is a tactile switch that offers a balanced keystroke experience, with just the right amount of punch and resonance without being too loud. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning is a linear switch known for its speed and responsiveness, making it ideal for competitive gaming where quick reactions are crucial. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and appeal, but ultimately, the choice between them depends on whether you prioritize tactile feedback or speed in your 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
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Koala and the KTT Lightning, it is evident that both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for a visually pleasing experience. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound and visual experience when using either the Durock Koala or the KTT Lightning due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
On the other hand, when examining the bottom housing materials, the Durock Koala and the KTT Lightning both opt for nylon. This choice creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. Nylon, known for its softer nature, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material allows users to feel the qualities of the bottom housing when pressing down on a key, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Overall, the nylon bottom housing of both keyboards contributes to a unique typing experience characterized by a deeper sound profile.
In conclusion, while the Durock Koala and the KTT Lightning share similarities in their housing materials, such as the polycarbonate top housing, they also differ in their choice of nylon for the bottom housing. These differences result in varying sound profiles and typing experiences for users of each keyboard. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile offered by polycarbonate or a deeper, fuller sound profile created by nylon, both keyboards provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Koala and the KTT Lightning will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, it is clear that the Lightning switch is lighter in both aspects. The Koala has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the Lightning has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is lighter. The actuation force of the Koala is unknown, while the Lightning has an actuation force of 43 grams. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Lightning switch would be more suitable, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Koala switch, despite its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing comfort and ease of use.
Travel distance
Overall, the Durock Koala tactile switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the KTT Lightning linear switch with a travel distance of 3 mm. The Koala's 4.0mm travel distance offers a more traditional and deeper keypress feel, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Lightning's 3.0mm travel distance provides a shallower and quicker keypress, favored by gamers and those looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for keypress depth and response time. If you prefer a deeper tactile feel, the Koala may be the better option, while those seeking a quicker response may opt for the Lightning.
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 KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 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, the Durock Koala switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound with a chirpy element, giving it a sharp and crisp sound that may be more distinct in a typing session.
In terms of feel, the Durock Koala switch is described as polished, accented, stepped, and stiff, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with a pronounced bump that doesn't span the entire keystroke. On the contrary, the KTT Lightning switch is noted for its subtle and polished feel, offering a gentle resistance with a light typing experience and a sleek finish.
Overall, the Durock Koala switch is more geared towards users who prefer a tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and low-pitched sound, while the KTT Lightning switch is suitable for those who prioritize speed and a clacky, high-pitched sound profile. Depending on your personal preference and typing style, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different needs, ensuring a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are someone who prefers a medium-heavy tactile switch with a pronounced bump in your keystrokes, then the Durock Koala would be the ideal choice for you. The Koala offers a balanced typing experience with a bit of resonance, making it suitable for those who like a tactile response without being too loud. On the other hand, if you are looking for a light linear switch that provides a slick typing feel and a clacky sound profile, then the KTT Lightning switch would be more suitable for you. The Lightning switches are perfect for situations where speed is crucial, offering a smooth typing experience with a distinct sound profile. Ultimately, your choice between the Koala and Lightning switches would depend on your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile, so consider these factors carefully before making your decision.
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