Durock Koala vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Koala tactile switch to the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, it's clear that both offer unique advantages depending on your preferences. The Durock Koalas are a great option for those seeking a tactile experience without the excessive noise. With a stepped tactility and a pronounced bump, they provide a satisfying keystroke without being overly loud. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch doesn't have a specific standout feature, but it is known for being reliable and durable. While the Koalas are categorized as polished, low-pitched, and accented, the Dustproof Purples have no specific categories. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific qualities you prioritize in a keyboard switch. 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
55g
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
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
Both the Durock Koala and the Outemu Dustproof Purple feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This makes them ideal for switches that prioritize sound clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through for a visually appealing effect.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Koala and Dustproof Purple utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. The qualities brought by the nylon bottom housing contribute to the overall sound experience when typing on these switches, enhancing the tactile feedback and overall typing feel.
While both switches share similar housing materials, the distribution of these materials within the switch can impact the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings allows for a nuanced typing experience that combines the benefits of both polycarbonate and nylon for a well-rounded sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, it is clear that both switches fall within the medium-heavy range in terms of force. The Koala has a bottom out force of 67 grams, slightly heavier than the Dustproof Purple's 65 grams. The actuation force of the Dustproof Purple is 55 grams, while the Koala's actuation force is not specified. Both switches provide a substantial typing experience, with the Koala being slightly heavier. While lighter switches may be preferable for longer typing sessions or gaming, those who prefer a more substantial push feel may lean towards the heavier actuation force of the Koala. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, with the choice between them coming down to personal preference for force.
Travel distance
The Durock Koala tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar keystroke experience in terms of how far the switch travels when pressed. The travel distance plays a crucial role in determining the typing feel and responsiveness of a switch, as it directly impacts the amount of force needed to actuate it. In this case, both switches offer a consistent travel distance, ensuring that users can expect a similar typing experience regardless of which switch they choose.
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 Purple 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, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement. This makes it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch's sound qualities is not available. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard's build and keycap material.
Moving on to the feel, the Durock Koala switch is praised for its polished, accented, stepped, and stiff characteristics. These features result in a smooth, refined typing experience with a noticeable but not overpowering tactile bump. The stepped tactility adds a unique feel to the keystrokes, providing a satisfying typing experience for users who appreciate a bit of resistance. Unfortunately, details on the tactile feel of the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch are not provided.
In conclusion, the Durock Koala tactile switch stands out for its balanced tactile feedback, low-pitched sound profile, and smooth key travel. The Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch may offer a different typing experience, but without detailed information on its sound and feel qualities, it's difficult to make a direct comparison. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. If you're looking for a tactile switch with a unique stepped tactility and low-pitched sound, the Durock Koala may be the ideal choice for you.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, consider your preference for tactility and sound. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a pronounced but not overwhelming bump, the Koalas are a great choice. They offer a polished and accented feel with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force and medium actuation force requirement, the Dustproof Purples might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of tactile feedback and sound characteristics. Make sure to test both switches if possible to see which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
