Durock Koala vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Koala, a tactile switch, and the Durock Mamba, a linear switch, one can see distinct differences in their features and characteristics. The Koala is favored by those who appreciate a tactile response without overwhelming feedback, offering a satisfying bump that is not too harsh. On the other hand, the Mamba, paying homage to Kobe Bryant, provides a smooth and seamless typing experience with a subtle and rich sound profile. While the Koala is categorized as polished, low-pitched, and stepped, the Mamba falls into the neutral, mild, and thocky categories. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The Durock Koala and the Durock Mamba both use unique housing materials for their switches, with the Koala featuring a polycarbonate top housing while the Mamba utilizes a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend. The polycarbonate top housing of the Koala creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for those looking for a more resonant sound. On the other hand, the Mamba's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE offers a pleasant sound profile that leans towards the brighter side, providing a different auditory experience compared to the Koala.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Koala uses nylon which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a different typing experience than the Mamba's POM bottom housing. The POM bottom housing of the Mamba, on the other hand, creates a unique and pleasing sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted than the nylon bottom housing of the Koala. These differences in bottom housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience and sound produced by each switch.
While the Koala and the Mamba have different top and bottom housing materials, the effect of each material is noticeable when using the switches. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, influencing the overall typing experience, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in housing materials between the two switches, users can expect similar results in terms of the unique sound profiles and typing experiences offered by each.
Weight
The Durock Koala tactile switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Koala has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Mamba has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium. Both switches have an actuation force of None grams, indicating a light touch is needed to trigger a keystroke. When considering weight, the Koala may be preferred for those who enjoy a slightly heavier typing experience, while the Mamba offers a lighter touch that can be conducive for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Koala tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Mamba linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Mamba the shorter option between the two switches. A 4.0mm travel distance is considered more traditional, while a 3.5mm travel distance is on the shallower side. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, but some may find them too abrupt. Those looking for a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Koala with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and keypress 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 Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
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 has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, which offers a mellow tone and a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba linear switch also features a neutral sound profile but is described as "thocky," providing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience in terms of sound, with the Koala being a bit more subdued while the Mamba delivers a more pronounced auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Koala tactile switch is polished, accented, stepped, and stiff, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with a prominent but not overwhelming level of tactility. The stepped tactility of the Koala gives users a distinct bump that is not too aggressive, making it suitable for those who prefer a more controlled tactile feel. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba linear switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with smooth key travel. Typing on the Mamba switch gives users a gliding sensation, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Overall, the Durock Koala tactile switch and Durock Mamba linear switch offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Koala provides a more controlled and refined tactile experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the Mamba offers a smooth and gentle typing experience with a thocky sound. Depending on individual preferences for tactile feedback and sound profiles, users can choose between these two switches to achieve a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches are high-quality options that deliver reliable performance and a pleasant typing feel, ensuring that users will get a similar level of satisfaction regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you enjoy a pronounced bump in your keystrokes and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Koala would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a lower bottom out force and a linear switch, the Mamba would be the way to go. Consider your typing style, desired sound profile, and tactile feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing needs.
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