Durock Koala vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Koala and the Gateron Lunar Probe stand out as popular options with unique characteristics. The Durock Koala is a tactile switch that offers a satisfying bump during keystrokes without being too overwhelming. Known for its stepped tactility and a touch of resonance, it appeals to those who appreciate a balanced key feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe is a linear switch featuring a smooth and pre-lubed sensation for consistent and stable keypresses. With a subtle sound signature and Gateron's innovative dual rail mechanism, it provides a different typing experience compared to the Koala. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Durock Koala and Gateron Lunar Probe both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting as its translucency allows for better light diffusion. However, the Koala's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Lunar Probe's polycarbonate bottom housing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the Koala.
While both the Koala and Lunar Probe utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, their differences lie in their bottom housings. The Koala's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper sound profile with a softer feel upon bottoming out, whereas the Lunar Probe's polycarbonate bottom housing may offer a slightly sharper sound with less absorption of sound. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a difference in sound and feel when pressing down on the switch versus releasing it. Ultimately, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate bottom housings will depend on personal preference for sound and typing experience.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Durock Koala and Gateron Lunar Probe play a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switches. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound, they differ in their bottom housing materials, with the Koala using nylon for a deeper sound profile and the Lunar Probe using polycarbonate for a potentially sharper sound. Understanding the impact of each housing material on the overall typing experience can help users choose the switch that best suits their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Koala tactile switch to the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, it is evident that they differ in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Koala has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Lunar Probe has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it lighter in comparison. Additionally, the Koala does not list a specific actuation force, whereas the Lunar Probe has an actuation force of 45 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Lunar Probe may result in a more sensitive and responsive typing experience, while the heavier bottom out force of the Koala may provide a more substantial feel during typing. Those looking for extended typing periods may prefer the lighter force of the Lunar Probe, while others seeking a more robust typing experience may lean towards the heavier force of the Koala. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, it is clear that the Koala has a longer travel distance at 4 mm compared to the Lunar Probe's 3.6 mm. The Koala's 4mm travel distance offers a bit more depth and tactile feedback when pressing down on the keys, which may be preferred by some users. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe's shorter 3.6 mm travel distance provides a faster response time, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for quick keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a longer, more tactile travel distance or a shorter, more responsive one.
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 Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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
In terms of sound, the Durock Koala tactile switch is known for its low-pitched tone, giving it a bass-heavy and mellow sound profile. This makes it a great option for those who enjoy a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch does not have a specific sound description provided, so it is unclear how it compares in terms of sound. However, both switches allow for customization in terms of sound based on factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Durock Koala is praised for its polished and accented feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with a moderate amount of tactility. The stepped design of the switch offers a unique keystroke feel with distinct feedback. Additionally, the switch is described as somewhat stiff, requiring a bit more force to actuate compared to other switches. In contrast, information about the feel of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is not provided, leaving it unknown how it compares in terms of tactile feedback and actuation force.
In conclusion, the Durock Koala tactile switch offers a well-rounded typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, polished and accented feel, and a moderate level of tactility. While the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch may provide a different typing experience with its smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, the lack of specific information on sound and feel makes it difficult to directly compare the two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so experimentation may be needed to find the perfect match for your typing style and needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a tactile switch with a pronounced bump that doesn't span the entire keystroke, the Koala would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation with stable and consistent keypresses, the Lunar Probe would be more suitable. Additionally, if you prefer low-pitched and neutral sound switches with a polished, accented, stepped, and possibly stiff feel, the Koala might appeal to you. Ultimately, your preference for tactile versus linear switches and your specific typing style will play a significant role in determining which switch is the best fit for you.
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