Durock Koala vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Koala, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Dustproof Black, a linear switch, it ultimately boils down to personal preference and typing style. The Durock Koala is a favorite among those who enjoy a tactile feedback without being too overwhelming. Its stepped tactility provides a satisfying bump without being too loud, making it a great option for those who want a balance between feedback and smooth keystrokes. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black is a linear switch with no tactile bump, offering a consistent and smooth typing experience. While the Koala is categorized with descriptors like 'Polished', 'Low-pitched', 'Accented', 'Neutral', 'Stepped', and 'Stiff', the Dustproof Black doesn't have specific characteristics listed. However, to truly determine which switch is the right fit for you, it is essential to delve deeper into the nuances of each switch's design and performance.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
80g
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 the Outemu Dustproof Black both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, the Koala's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Dustproof Black's nylon bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound.
One key difference between the two switches lies in their bottom housings. The Koala's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black's nylon bottom housing offers a similar quality but may have a slightly different sound profile due to variations in manufacturing processes. Despite this difference, both switches share the same qualities in their polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharp and crisp sound that is enhanced by the stiffer nature of the material.
Overall, the housing materials of the Durock Koala and the Outemu Dustproof Black play a significant role in shaping the sound profile of each switch. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound, the Koala's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Dustproof Black's nylon bottom housing. Despite these differences, both switches provide a unique typing experience that is influenced by the combination of their housing materials.
Weight
The Durock Koala tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch have distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Koala has a light actuation force of None grams, making it easy to trigger keystrokes, while the Dustproof Black requires a heavier force of 60 grams for actuation. In terms of bottom out force, the Koala has a medium-heavy force of 67 grams, while the Dustproof Black is heavier at 80 grams. This means that the Koala is lighter to press down fully compared to the Dustproof Black, which may be preferred by those who like a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience a similar distance traveled from the top to the bottom. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that users will receive consistent results in terms of keypress feel and feedback. Therefore, whether using the Durock Koala or the Outemu Dustproof Black switch, users can expect a comparable typing experience 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 Dustproof Black 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Koala tactile switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for a variety of users and environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch's sound characteristics are unknown, making it difficult to compare to the Koala in this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Koala tactile switch is praised for its polished, accented, stepped, and stiff qualities. These features combine to offer a smooth and refined typing experience with a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming or too subtle. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch's feel characteristics are not provided, making it hard to assess how it compares to the Koala in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience.
Overall, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a moderate bump and a low-pitched sound profile, the Durock Koala may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you are more interested in a linear switch with unknown sound characteristics, the Outemu Dustproof Black could be worth considering. Keep in mind that both switches may offer similar results in terms of overall typing experience, but the specific qualities of each switch will ultimately depend on personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a tactile switch that provides a pronounced bump without being overly loud, then the Durock Koala would be a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavy bottom out force and a linear switch with no specific characteristics mentioned, then the Outemu Dustproof Black might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the tactile feedback and medium-heavy actuation force of the Koala or the heavy actuation force and linear feel of the Dustproof Black. Consider your typing style, preferences, and whether you prioritize tactility or a smooth linear experience when making your choice between these two switches.
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