Durock Koala vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Koala and the Outemu Dustproof Blue are two popular options with distinct characteristics. The Durock Koala is a tactile switch that offers a perfect balance for those who want a noticeable bump without being too overwhelming. With its stepped tactility and pronounced bump that does not span the entire keystroke, typing on the Koala provides a satisfying feedback without being overly loud. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue from Outemu is a clicky switch that is known for its durability. While not offering any specific unique features, it is a reliable choice for those who enjoy the audible click sound while typing. When deciding between the two, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these 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
2.20 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 housing materials of the Durock Koala and Outemu Dustproof Blue switches offer similar benefits in terms of sound profiles due to the use of polycarbonate in their top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, resulting in a more resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making them visually appealing options for users interested in customizable lighting setups.
However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Koala features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Dustproof Blue's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound when typing, adding a unique auditory experience to the typing feel. This contrast in bottom housing materials can impact the overall typing experience depending on the user's preference for sound and feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Koala and Outemu Dustproof Blue switches may come down to personal preference in typing experience. The Koala's combination of polycarbonate top housing for a clear and resonant sound, along with a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound, offers a diverse auditory experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue's consistent use of polycarbonate throughout its housing provides a uniform sound profile that may appeal to users seeking a more consistent typing feel. Both switches offer quality housing materials that cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, there are some differences to note. The Koala has a lower actuation force of None grams, meaning it requires very little pressure to register a keystroke, while the Dustproof Blue has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have a similar bottom out force of 67 grams for the Koala and 65 grams for the Dustproof Blue, providing a medium-heavy feel when fully pressed. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Dustproof Blue, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may prefer the Koala for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing feel.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, the experience in terms of key travel will be similar. The 4 mm travel distance allows for a satisfying typing experience, providing enough feedback and tactile response for users to feel engaged while typing. In conclusion, both switches offer the same key travel distance, ensuring a consistent 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 Dustproof Blue 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 offers a low-pitched and neutral profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user. In comparison, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Blue is not available, but it's important to note that sound can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Durock Koala is praised for its polished, accented, stepped, and stiff characteristics. These switches offer a smooth and refined typing experience with a medium amount of tactility that is not overwhelming. The stepped tactility provides a two-stage feel, allowing for some pre-travel and/or post-travel, while the stiffness requires a higher actuation force. On the other hand, details about the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch are not provided.
In conclusion, the Durock Koala and Outemu Dustproof Blue switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Koala provides a low-pitched, neutral sound profile and a polished, accented, stepped, and stiff feel for those looking for a tactile switch with a pronounced bump but not excessively loud keystrokes. While the specific qualities of the Dustproof Blue switch are unknown, users can expect varying experiences based on factors such as keyboard and keycap selection. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, and users can expect similar results in terms of overall satisfaction with their choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and needs. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and prefer a switch with a pronounced bump but not overwhelmingly tactile, the Koala would be a great choice for you. Additionally, if you appreciate a low-pitched sound and a polished, accented, stepped, or stiff feel in a switch, the Koala may be the perfect fit for your typing style. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-heavy bottom out force with clicky feedback and enjoy a clicky sound profile, the Dustproof Blue could be the switch for you. Ultimately, consider your typing preferences, whether you prioritize tactility or auditory feedback, and the overall typing experience you desire when making your decision between these two switches.
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