Durock Koala vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Koala and the Outemu Silent Yellow offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Durock Koala stands out as a tactile switch, striking a perfect balance for those who desire a noticeable bump in their keystrokes without being too overwhelming. With its stepped tactility, users can enjoy a pronounced tactile feedback that doesn't extend throughout the entire keystroke, coupled with a touch of resonance that doesn't produce excessive noise. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow is a linear switch, known for its quiet operation. Although it lacks any specific standout feature, its smooth linear feel appeals to those who prioritize a consistent keystroke experience. While these general descriptions provide a good starting point, delving deeper into the characteristics and nuances of each switch will ultimately help you determine which one best suits your preferences. So, 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
2.20 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
Both the Durock Koala and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches feature polycarbonate top housings, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. With both switches sharing this housing material, users can expect similar qualities in terms of sound and aesthetics when typing on these switches.
On the other hand, the Koala's nylon bottom housing and the Silent Yellow's nylon bottom housing offer a different typing experience. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. While both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, the typing experience and sound profile may vary slightly between the two, offering users a choice based on their preference for sound and feel.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it's important to note that the qualities of each material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the two housing materials can result in a unique typing experience for each switch, offering users a variety of options to choose from based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is evident that the Silent Yellow switch is heavier in both aspects. The Koala has an actuation force of None grams, making it difficult to determine how light it is, while the Silent Yellow requires 65 grams of force to actuate. Additionally, the Koala has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is medium-heavy, whereas the Silent Yellow has a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it heavier than the Koala. The weight of a switch is important to consider depending on personal preference. Some may prefer a lighter switch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer a heavier switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and how they prioritize actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, it can be noted that they both offer a consistent and comfortable typing experience due to their similar travel distances. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and actuation point placement. Additionally, the 4 mm travel distance on both switches ensures that typing on either switch will not feel drastically different in terms of key travel. Overall, whether you choose the Durock Koala or the Outemu Silent Yellow, you can expect a smooth typing experience with a consistent key travel distance of 4 mm.
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 Yellow 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 is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for most users. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided, making it difficult to compare directly. However, both switches' sound will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Koala offers a polished typing experience with accented and stepped tactility, providing a refined and smooth key travel that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, these switches are described as stiff, requiring more force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. As for the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, the feel descriptors are unknown, making it impossible to directly compare the two in this aspect.
In conclusion, the Durock Koala tactile switch stands out for its unique stepped tactility and low-pitched sound profile, making it a suitable option for those looking for a tactile switch with a moderate amount of resistance. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch remain unknown, it is essential for newcomers to consider factors such as sound, feel, and personal preference when choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch. As both switches cater to different preferences, it is essential to test them out personally to determine which one best suits your typing style and needs.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are someone who prefers a tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Durock Koala switches would be a great choice for you. The Koalas offer a noticeable bump without being too overwhelming, providing a satisfying keystroke feel. On the other hand, if you are looking for a linear switch with a heavier bottom out force, the Outemu Silent Yellow switches may be more suitable for you. The Silent Yellow switches offer a smooth and quiet typing experience, perfect for those who prefer linear switches and are looking for a switch that requires a bit more force to actuate. Ultimately, your decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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