Durock Koala vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Durock Koala and the SP-Star Meteor White are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct typing experiences. The Koalas are a tactile switch that strikes a perfect balance for those looking for a keystroke with a noticeable bump without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Meteor White is a linear switch that provides a smooth and easy keystroke with a soft sound profile. While the Koala offers a stepped tactility and a bit of resonance, the Meteor White boasts a subdued and gentle typing experience. Both switches have their unique characteristics and appeal to different preferences. 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
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Durock Koala and SP-Star Meteor White both offer unique housing materials for their switches. The Koala features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Meteor White utilizes a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer properties. While the Koala's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting with its translucency, the Meteor White's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound profile.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Durock Koala and SP-Star Meteor White use nylon. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deep and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and sound absorption properties. This means that while typing on either switch, users can expect a more muted and rounded sound compared to switches with harder bottom housings. The utilization of nylon in both the Koala and Meteor White bottom housings demonstrates a preference for this classic switch housing material for its sound-enhancing qualities.
In terms of functionality, the housing materials of the Durock Koala and SP-Star Meteor White contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the switches. The split between the different housing materials for the top and bottom housings results in a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, with the Koala's polycarbonate top housing providing a sharper sound, and the Meteor White's nylon top housing delivering a fuller sound. Overall, the choice between these switches will ultimately come down to personal preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Durock Koala tactile switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, while the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch has a bottom out force of 57 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, but based on their bottom out force, it can be inferred that the Koala would require more force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Meteor White. The Koala would provide a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. On the other hand, the Meteor White's lighter bottom out force may be more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, where a lighter touch is preferred to minimize hand fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Durock Koala tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distance, both switches offer a consistent typing experience with a similar feel when engaging the keys. This means that whether you choose the Koala or the Meteor White switch, you can expect a similar keypress experience in terms of travel distance. These switches provide a moderate distance for typing or gaming, striking a balance between responsiveness and comfort. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference regarding tactile feedback or linear actuation.
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 SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
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, both the Durock Koala and SP-Star Meteor White switches are characterized by a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most users and environments. The Koala switch offers a low-pitched tone that is bass-heavy and mellow, while the Meteor White switch provides a thocky sound profile, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Koala switch is known for its polished, accented, stepped, and stiff qualities, offering a tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump that doesn't span the entire keystroke. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White switch is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle and refined typing experience that falls within the safe middle ground of typing characteristics. Both switches aim to offer a smooth key travel with reduced friction, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the Durock Koala and SP-Star Meteor White switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Koala switch is best suited for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and a low-pitched sound profile, while the Meteor White switch is ideal for users seeking a softer and gentler typing feel with a thocky sound profile. With their respective unique qualities, users can expect to achieve satisfying typing experiences based on their personal preferences and needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Koala tactile switch or the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, you should consider your preference for tactility and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a pronounced bump and a bit of resonance, the Koala may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a gentle linear feel and a soft, pitter-patter sound profile, the Meteor White may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a tactile typing experience with a bit of punch or a softer, smoother keystroke.
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