Durock Koala vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Koala and the TTC Neptune present themselves as top contenders in the market, each offering unique characteristics catering to different preferences. The Koala is a tactile switch renowned for its balanced keystrokes that come with a pronounced bump without being overly loud, perfect for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience without too much resistance. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune stands out as a linear switch with an innovative internal design that provides a smooth and almost frictionless typing experience, akin to the springy sensation found in chewy treats like mochi. While the Koala is categorized as polished, low-pitched, and stepped, the Neptune boasts characteristics like buttery, gummy, and thocky. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Durock Koala and the TTC Neptune both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Koala's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp, high-pitched sound, while the Neptune's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of the polycarbonate in the Koala allows for RGB lighting effects, while the POM material in the Neptune provides a sleek and classic look. On the other hand, the Koala's nylon bottom housing generates a fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, while the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing creates a sharper and clearer sound profile.
While the Koala and Neptune have different housing materials for their top and bottom components, they both offer a unique typing experience. The split between the two materials allows for a combination of sound qualities, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This split design offers a balanced typing experience, with each component contributing to the overall feel and sound of the switch. Whether it's the sharper, crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing in the Koala or the pleasing, deeper sound of the POM top housing in the Neptune, both switches offer a customized typing experience based on their housing materials.
In terms of material composition, the Durock Koala and TTC Neptune showcase the versatility of different plastics in switch housings. While the Koala features polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings, the Neptune combines POM top housing with polycarbonate bottom housing. This creates a contrast in sound profiles, with the Koala offering a sharper, clearer sound with its polycarbonate components, while the Neptune provides a deeper, more muted sound with its POM material. Both switches have their own unique benefits, whether it's the stiffer plastic of the polycarbonate or the softer, sound-absorbing properties of nylon. Overall, the choice between the Durock Koala and TTC Neptune will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is clear that the Koala is the heavier switch with a bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the Neptune's 50 grams. On the other hand, the Neptune has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams, whereas the Koala's actuation force is not specified. Weight can play a significant role in user preference, with lighter switches allowing for longer typing durations, while heavier switches provide a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer different tactile feedback based on their actuation and bottom out forces, with the Koala providing a medium-heavy feel and the Neptune offering a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Durock Koala tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Koala has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Neptune. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with 4.0mm being a common standard. Gamers may prefer the Koala for its slightly longer travel distance, which can provide a more satisfying feedback during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, those looking for a faster response time may lean towards the Neptune with its slightly shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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 tends to offer a low-pitched and neutral auditory experience, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone without being too loud. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune presents a low-pitched and muted sound, creating a softer and quieter typing atmosphere. With the Neptune's muted and subdued sound, it aims to maintain a refined and unobtrusive auditory ambiance, appealing to those who prefer a more subtle sound signature. Both switches lean towards the low-pitched sound profile, ensuring a pleasant typing experience that won't be disruptive in various environments.
In terms of feel, the Durock Koala is often described as polished, accented, and stepped, offering a refined and smooth typing experience with a moderate amount of tactility. The stepped tactility of the Koala provides a satisfying bump without overwhelming the keystroke. Conversely, the TTC Neptune is characterized as buttery, gummy, and frictionless, providing an effortless and uniform typing sensation with a unique tactile feedback that feels like bottoming-out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Both switches strive to offer a tactile typing experience that is smooth and enjoyable, catering to different preferences of tactility and feedback.
Overall, the Durock Koala and TTC Neptune switches each have their own unique qualities that cater to specific preferences in sound and feel. While the Koala offers a pronounced bump with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, the Neptune provides a smooth, almost frictionless glide with a tactile feedback reminiscent of chewy delights. Whether you prefer a more traditional tactile experience or a unique, textured sensation while typing, both switches offer quality options in the mechanical keyboard market. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, consider the characteristics that suit your preferences and needs. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and a tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump but not overwhelming, the Koala may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, smooth and frictionless glide with a unique springy resistance feel, and a muted sound signature for a refined typing ambiance, then the Neptune might be the ideal fit. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your personal typing style, sound preferences, and tactile feedback desired. Choose wisely based on what feels best for your typing experience.
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