Durock Koala vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Koala and the Outemu Crystal Brown mechanical keyboard switches, both belonging to the tactile switch category, some key differences emerge. The Koalas are a popular choice for those seeking a tactile switch with a pronounced bump that doesn't span the entire keystroke, offering a perfect balance between punchiness and subtlety. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown switches are known for their lack of distinct features or attributes, falling under a more neutral category. While the Koalas are described as 'Polished', 'Low-pitched', 'Accented', 'Neutral', 'Stepped', and 'Stiff', the Crystal Brown switches do not have any specific standout characteristics. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing style. 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
55g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Koala and Outemu Crystal Brown both feature polycarbonate top housings, which provide a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to other housing materials. The use of polycarbonate in these switches results in a clear and resonant sound that is enhanced when RGB lighting is used. However, the Koala's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Crystal Brown also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing similar qualities to its sound profile as the Koala.
Despite both switches featuring polycarbonate top housings, the choice of housing material for the bottom differs between the Durock Koala and Outemu Crystal Brown. While the Koala's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, the Crystal Brown's nylon bottom housing offers a similar experience. This split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a balance in sound qualities when typing on these switches. The impact of the bottom housing is felt during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a greater role in the sound when releasing a key.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Durock Koala and Outemu Crystal Brown feature clear housings due to their polycarbonate material, making them ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. Additionally, the stiffness of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a more defined and resonant sound profile, while the softer nylon bottom housing provides a more muffled and round sound experience. Overall, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel, as they both offer unique qualities in their housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it is important to note that they have different characteristics. The Koala has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it falls on the lighter side, while the Crystal Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it slightly heavier. For bottom out force, the Koala requires 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, whereas the Crystal Brown needs 55 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. This means that the Koala provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, while the Crystal Brown offers a lighter actuation force for easier typing over longer periods. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them comparable in this aspect. When pressing down on either key, users will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you opt for the Koala or the Crystal Brown, you can expect a similar tactile experience in terms of travel distance. Additionally, the consistent travel distance of 4 mm for both switches allows for a reliable and predictable typing experience, regardless of the switch chosen.
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 Crystal Brown 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Koala tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. This means that they produce a softer and more mellow tone, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound profile of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Durock Koala is described as polished, accented, stepped, and stiff. This indicates that they offer a smooth and refined typing experience with a moderate level of tactility. With a two-stage bump and higher actuation force requirement, the Koala switches provide a noticeable but not overwhelming tactile feedback. In contrast, there is no information provided about the specific feel of the Outemu Crystal Brown switches.
Overall, both the Durock Koala and Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Koala is praised for its polished finish and pronounced bump, the information available on the Crystal Brown switches is limited. If you are looking for a switch that provides a moderate level of tactility and a mellow sound profile, the Durock Koala may be the better choice. However, without more detailed information on the Outemu Crystal Brown switches, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. Ultimately, the best way to determine which switch is right for you is to try them out and see which one best suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, consider your preference for key feel and sound. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a polished, accented, and stepped tactile feel, as well as a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, then the Durock Koala switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile, the Crystal Brown switch may suit your needs better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound output.
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