Durock Koala vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Durock Koala, a tactile switch, and the Dareu Master, a linear switch. The Koalas are a perfect choice for those who desire a tactile feedback that packs a punch without being too overwhelming, thanks to their stepped tactility that provides a pronounced bump without spanning the entire keystroke. With a combination of characteristics such as being polished, low-pitched, accented, neutral, stepped, and stiff, the Durock Koala offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Master, an all-POM linear switch, offers a medium weight option with a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness in operation. Categorized as clacky, mild, and polished, the Dareu Master switch provides a different typing experience compared to the Durock Koala. Each switch has its own set of characteristics and advantages that appeal 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Koala and the Dareu Master, we see that they both offer unique characteristics. The Koala's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the Master's POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Koala allows for a clear and resonant sound, while the POM in the Master offers a different, more subdued sound profile. Both materials have their advantages, with polycarbonate being stiffer and POM being softer, resulting in distinct typing experiences.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Koala's nylon bottom housing offers a deep and full sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder tone. On the other hand, the Master's POM bottom housing provides a similarly deep and muted sound profile, sharing some similarities with the Koala in terms of sound characteristics. Despite the differences in material, both switches offer a unique typing experience with their respective bottom housings contributing to the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Koala and the Dareu Master ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound characteristics and typing experience. While the Koala's polycarbonate top housing may appeal to those looking for a sharper sound, the Master's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing in the Koala provides a fuller sound profile, while the POM bottom housing in the Master offers a similar deep and muted sound. Both switches provide a unique typing experience, with the housing materials playing a significant role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, it is evident that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Koala features a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, while its actuation force is undetermined. On the other hand, the Master switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, with its bottom out force unknown. The difference in actuation forces means that the Master would provide a lighter and potentially smoother typing experience compared to the Koala, which may have a more pronounced tactile bump. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for a heavier or lighter typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Koala tactile switch is 4 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Dareu Master has a shorter travel distance compared to the Durock Koala. A 0.6 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and performance of the switch. The Durock Koala will provide a slightly deeper press compared to the Dareu Master, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial keypress. On the other hand, the Dareu Master's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or individuals looking for a quicker response time. Overall, both switches offer unique experiences based on their travel distances, so the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference.
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 Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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 sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone without being overwhelmingly loud. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch is known for its clacky sound signature, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This difference in sound can play a significant role in the overall typing experience, especially when considering factors like the keyboard's build and choice of keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Durock Koala tactile switch boasts qualities such as being polished, accented, stepped, and stiff. This means that users can expect a smooth and refined typing experience with a pronounced bump that is not too overwhelming. Conversely, the Dareu Master linear switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with exceptional smoothness in operation. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, but the Koala's stepped and accented tactility sets it apart from the Master's linear smoothness.
Overall, the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Koala provides a balanced tactile typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, while the Master delivers a classic clacky sound with exceptional smoothness. Depending on personal preference for sound and typing feel, both switches can cater to different needs. Those looking for a more pronounced bump and a different sound experience may find the Koala appealing, while users in need of a smoother typing experience may prefer the Master. Understanding these subjective qualities can help newcomers in choosing the right switch for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force that offers a balanced typing experience with a noticeable bump but not overwhelming, the Durock Koala would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium weight and a classic clacky sound signature that provides exceptional smoothness in operation, the Dareu Master switch would be more suitable for you. Consider your preference for a pronounced bump versus a smooth linear action, as well as the sound profile you prefer when making your decision between these two switches.
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