Durock Koala vs. Outemu Silent Green
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Outemu Silent Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Koala tactile switch to the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, it's important to consider the different characteristics that set them apart. The Koalas are a popular choice for those who enjoy a tactile experience without the overwhelming force of other switches. They offer a smooth keystroke with a noticeable bump that enhances typing feedback, making them a great option for those who want a balance of tactility and quiet operation. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green linear switches are known for their silent operation, providing a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback. This makes them ideal for those who prioritize a quiet 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Silent Green, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Koala uses a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Silent Green utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining the same sharp, crisp sound profile as the top housing.
Despite having different bottom housing materials, the Durock Koala and Outemu Silent Green switches both have a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to their overall sound profile. The top housing material has a significant impact on the sound produced when a key is pressed down and released, with the polycarbonate in both switches creating a distinct auditory experience. However, the split in housing materials between the top and bottom means that the qualities of each material are felt differently when using the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Koala influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Green maintains a consistent clear and resonant sound profile.
In conclusion, while the Durock Koala and Outemu Silent Green switches share a polycarbonate top housing that creates a specific sound profile, their differences lie in the bottom housing materials. The Koala's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound, while the Silent Green's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and crisp sound characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the desired sound profile and feel, with the housing materials playing a crucial 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 Silent Green linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Koala has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it requires a very light touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Silent Green has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a slightly firmer push feel. When it comes to bottom out force, the Koala requires 67 grams of force to fully press the key, making it medium-heavy, while the Silent Green requires 60 grams, which is slightly lighter. This means that the Koala offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, while the Silent Green provides a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This means that whether you choose the Koala or the Silent Green switch, you can expect a similar tactile or linear feel when typing. The travel distance remains consistent at 4 mm for both switches, providing a reliable typing experience for users who prefer either a tactile or linear switch.
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 Silent Green 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 bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green linear switch has no specific sound descriptors available, making it difficult to compare in this aspect. Moving on to feel, the Koala switch is polished, accented, stepped, and stiff, offering a smooth, refined typing experience with a moderate amount of tactility and a two-stage keystroke feel. As for the Silent Green switch, there is no information provided regarding its feel characteristics. Overall, if one is looking for a tactile switch with a pronounced bump and a low-pitched sound, the Durock Koala would be a great option. On the other hand, if a silent linear switch is preferred, the Outemu Silent Green may provide a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, you should consider your preference for tactility and actuation force. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and a pronounced bump without a full keystroke span, the Koala would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a smooth linear typing experience, the Silent Green might be more suitable. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference in terms of feel and sound. Consider your typing style and what qualities you prioritize in a keyboard switch when making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
