Durock Koala vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Koala, a tactile switch, and the Durock Lupine, a linear switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Koalas are ideal for those who want a tactile typing experience without an overwhelming bump throughout the keystroke. They offer a balanced feel with a pronounced bump and a bit of resonance, making them a great choice for those who want a satisfying typing experience without a loud sound. On the other hand, the Lupine switches provide a smooth and consistent typing experience with a unique two-stage long spring design. They offer a more powerful upward movement on the rebound and a classic clacky sound profile. While the Koalas are characterized as polished, low-pitched, and stiff, the Lupines are described as neutral, mild, and high-pitched. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
The Durock Koala and Durock Lupine both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. The translucency of polycarbonate is also beneficial for switches that utilize RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. In terms of sound and feel, both switches will have similar characteristics attributed to the polycarbonate top housing, creating a consistent user experience in that aspect.
On the other hand, the Durock Koala and Durock Lupine differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Koala features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder materials, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing. In contrast, the Lupine also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing similar effects on sound and feel as the Koala, ensuring a consistent typing experience across both switches.
When it comes to utilizing different materials for the top and bottom housings of a switch, the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite the differences in housing materials between the Durock Koala and Durock Lupine, the overall typing experience is likely to be quite similar due to the consistent sound profiles generated by their shared polycarbonate top housings.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, it is important to note that the Koala has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Lupine, which has a bottom out force of 62 grams. Both switches have an actuation force of None grams, meaning they will offer a similar light touch when triggering a keystroke. The Koala's heavier bottom out force may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Lupine's slightly lighter bottom out force could be more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Durock Koala tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Koala offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lupine, providing a deeper keystroke feel when typing or gaming. However, the Lupine with its shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. Both switches offer similar results in terms of quality and performance, but the Koala offers a slightly longer travel distance for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing feel.
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 Durock Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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 is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for most intents and purposes. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch presents a neutral sound profile as well but leans towards a higher-pitched sound, producing a sharp and crisp noise when pressed. Both switches offer a moderate sound profile, making them versatile choices for various typing environments.
In terms of feel, the Durock Koala tactile switch is described as polished, accented, stepped, and stiff, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with a noticeable bump that doesn't span the entire keystroke. This switch requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out, offering a tactile feel without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch is characterized as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with a consistent weight distribution and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. Both switches provide a pleasant and approachable typing feel, with the Koala offering a more pronounced tactility compared to the Lupine's linear feel.
In conclusion, the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Koala provides a low-pitched sound profile with a polished and stepped feel, while the Lupine presents a neutral sound profile with a mild and consistent typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique typing experiences suited to different preferences, with the Koala catering to those who prefer a more pronounced tactility and the Lupine appealing to users looking for a smoother linear feel. Despite their differences, both switches offer a premium typing experience with Durock's renowned quality and craftsmanship.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, consider your preference for tactility and sound. If you prefer a switch with a pronounced bump and a bit of resonance, the Koala is a great choice with its medium-heavy bottom out force. On the other hand, if you enjoy a consistent weight distribution and a classic clacky sound profile, the Lupine with its medium bottom out force may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to whether you prioritize tactility or smooth linear typing experience.
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