Durock Koala vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Durock Koala, a tactile switch, and the PH Studio Milk Tea, a linear switch. The Koalas are known for their perfect balance of keystroke punchiness with a stepped tactility that provides a pronounced bump without being too overwhelming. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch offers a unique auditory experience with its high-pitched yet muted sound profile, designed for extended typing sessions with its light 43.5g bottom-out force. While the Koala is categorized as polished, low-pitched, and stiff, the Milk Tea is described as clacky, high-pitched, and silky. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. 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
37.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Ly
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
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The Durock Koala and PH Studio Milk Tea both offer unique combinations of housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Koala's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound, perfect for those who prefer a more pronounced typing experience. In contrast, the Milk Tea's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, appealing to those who enjoy a quieter typing experience. While both switches offer different sound profiles due to their top housings, they both prioritize providing a unique and pleasing typing experience.
In terms of bottom housings, the Koala's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, ideal for users who appreciate a more resonant typing experience. Conversely, the Milk Tea's POM bottom housing also provides a deep and muted sound, catering to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Despite the differences in materials, both switches share a commitment to delivering a satisfying typing experience through the unique qualities of their bottom housings.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Durock Koala and PH Studio Milk Tea differ, they both aim to enhance the overall typing experience with their respective sound profiles. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings ensures that users can enjoy a balanced combination of sharpness, depth, resonance, and quietness when typing on these switches. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper sound of POM, both switches offer a unique and customizable typing experience that caters to a variety of preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, it is evident that the Koala requires no specific actuation force, while the Milk Tea needs 37.5 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Koala is heavier at 67 grams compared to the Milk Tea's 43.5 grams. This means that the Koala provides a more substantial typing experience, while the Milk Tea offers a lighter touch. Those who prefer a lighter weight may lean towards the Milk Tea for longer typing or gaming sessions, while individuals seeking a more robust push feel might prefer the Koala. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Koala tactile switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch have different travel distances. The Koala has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is slightly longer than the Milk Tea's travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Koala offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Milk Tea falls on the shallower end. Gamers who prioritize fast response times might prefer the shorter travel distance of the Milk Tea, while those who enjoy a more hefty key press might lean towards the Koala. Both switches provide different tactile experiences, and choosing between them will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key 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 PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Koala tactile switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a mellow and bass-heavy tone that is suitable for a variety of users and environments. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch is described as clacky, high-pitched, marbly, and resonant, providing a sharp and crisp sound with a unique resonance that adds to the auditory experience. Depending on personal preference and typing environment, users may gravitate towards the Koala for a more subdued sound or the Milk Tea for a sharp and lively typing experience.
In terms of feel, both the Durock Koala tactile switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch are said to have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Koala offers an accented and stepped tactility, providing a moderate bump that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, while the Milk Tea boasts a silky smoothness that enhances overall typing comfort. Whether users prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback or a smoother keystroke will ultimately dictate which switch is the best fit for their typing style and preferences.
Considering the subjective qualities of both the Durock Koala tactile switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, it is evident that they cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the Koala offers a low-pitched and polished typing experience with a stepped tactility, the Milk Tea provides a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky smooth keystroke. Depending on whether users prioritize a tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump or a linear typing experience with an emphasis on smoothness, they can choose between the Koala and Milk Tea switches to achieve their desired results.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Durock Koala tactile switch or the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, you should weigh the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a pronounced tactile bump that doesn't span the entire keystroke, then the Koala switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a light bottom out force switch with a unique high-pitched yet muted sound profile, along with a smooth and refined typing experience, the Milk Tea switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences in terms of tactile feedback and auditory experience.
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