Durock Koala vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Koala and the Outemu Cream Pink offer unique experiences for different types of typists. The Durock Koala is a tactile switch that strikes a balance between a satisfying keystroke and a subtle bump without being too loud. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Pink is a linear switch that provides a smooth keystroke with no tactile feedback. The Koala is best suited for those who enjoy a bit of resistance and feedback with their keystrokes, while the Cream Pink is perfect for those who prefer a seamless typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Koala and the Outemu Cream Pink, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, is able to absorb more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. However, where they differ is in the top housing material. The Koala features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. On the other hand, the Cream Pink utilizes a nylon top housing, which also contributes to a deeper sound profile.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both the Durock Koala and the Outemu Cream Pink offer a unique typing experience that is enhanced by their respective housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing of the Koala provides a more resonant and clear sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Cream Pink contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. This variation in sound profiles allows users to choose which typing experience they prefer based on their personal preferences. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing common to both switches ensures a consistent deep and full sound profile when typing.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Koala and the Outemu Cream Pink will come down to individual preferences in sound profile and typing experience. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a deep and full sound, the polycarbonate top housing of the Koala offers a sharper and crisper sound compared to the Cream Pink's nylon top housing. Whether you prefer a clearer sound with the Koala or a deeper sound with the Cream Pink, the housing materials of these switches play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, we see that the Koala has an actuation force of None grams, while the Cream Pink has an actuation force of 50 grams. Despite this difference, both switches have a bottom out force that is quite similar, with the Koala at 67 grams and the Cream Pink at 65 grams, both falling under the medium-heavy category. The lighter actuation force of the Cream Pink may make it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing, while the heavier bottom out force of the Koala can provide a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force required.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity in travel distance means that the typing experience with both switches will feel consistent in terms of the travel distance. Since both switches have the same travel distance, it can be concluded that there is no difference in the travel distance between the two switches. As a result, typing on a keyboard equipped with either the Durock Koala or the Outemu Cream Pink switches will yield similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 Outemu Cream Pink comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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
The Durock Koala tactile switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during keystrokes. This, combined with its polished and stepped tactile feel, creates a smooth and refined typing experience with a noticeable but not overwhelming bump at the actuation point. On the other hand, not much information is available about the sound and feel of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch.
Overall, if you enjoy a switch with a pronounced bump and a low-pitched sound, the Durock Koala may be the ideal choice for you. Its combination of stepped tactility and polished feel make for a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with unknown sound and feel characteristics, the Outemu Cream Pink may offer a different typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and a tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump but not too overwhelming, the Durock Koala may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth linear typing experience without tactility, the Outemu Cream Pink could be more suitable for your needs. Consider factors such as sound profile, feel, and your typing style to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Each switch has its own unique characteristics, so take your time to test them out and see which one feels right for you.
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