Durock Koala vs. KTT Peach
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the KTT Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Koala and the KTT Peach are two popular options that cater to different preferences. The Durock Koala is a tactile switch that offers a perfect balance for those who want a keypress with a punchy feel but not too overwhelming. It provides a pronounced bump during typing while maintaining a level of resonance without being excessively loud. On the other hand, the KTT Peach is a linear switch known for its smooth typing experience and deep, thocky sound profile. While the Koala is categorized as polished, low-pitched, accented, neutral, stepped, and stiff, the Peach falls under the categories of low-pitched, neutral, and mild. Choosing between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference based on the desired 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
53g
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
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The Durock Koala and KTT Peach both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This makes them ideal for switches where clarity and resonance are desired, especially when used with RGB lighting. Additionally, both switches have nylon bottom housings, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. The use of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the overall typing experience.
While both switches share similar housing materials, the way in which these materials are utilized can affect the typing experience differently. The Koala distributes the qualities of the nylon bottom housing to impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the polycarbonate top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. On the other hand, the Peach also utilizes polycarbonate for the top housing for a sharp and clear sound profile, but the nylon bottom housing absorbs sound to create a deeper typing experience. This contrast in housing materials highlights the importance of considering how each component contributes to the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Overall, the Durock Koala and KTT Peach showcase the versatility of housing materials in mechanical switches. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing to achieve a sharp and crisp sound profile, the use of nylon in the bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller typing experience. Understanding how different housing materials impact sound and feel can help users choose a switch that best suits their preferences, whether they prioritize clarity and resonance or a more muffled and round sound. By considering the unique qualities of each housing material, users can tailor their typing experience to meet their specific needs.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Koala tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, it's clear that they have different weight considerations. The Koala has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Peach has a bottom out force of 53 grams, classified as medium-light. The Koala's actuation force is not specified, while the Peach has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Peach requires less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Koala. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Peach may be the better option, allowing for longer periods of typing without as much finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Koala may be more suitable for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a heavier bottom-out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Koala tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels when pressed. The travel distance of 4 mm for both switches indicates a moderate amount of key travel, providing a satisfying tactile or linear response depending on the user's preference. The consistency in travel distance between the Koala and Peach switches allows for a familiar feel across different keyboards, making it easier for users to adjust to different setups. Overall, while the switches may differ in their tactile or linear characteristics, their travel distance remains the same, ensuring a consistent typing experience for users.
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 KTT Peach comes in at $2.91 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, both the Durock Koala and KTT Peach switches are described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. This means that they both offer a bass-heavy and mellow tone, making them suitable for various environments such as home or work. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Koala switch is known for being polished, accented, stepped, and stiff, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with a moderate amount of tactility that is not overwhelming. On the other hand, the KTT Peach switch is described as mild, offering a gentler typing experience with qualities that fall within a safe, middle-ground zone. Both switches provide a different tactile feel, catering to different preferences depending on whether you prefer a more pronounced bump or a smoother typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Durock Koala and KTT Peach switches offer different tactile experiences in terms of feel, they both share similar low-pitched and neutral sound profiles. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a more pronounced bump and stiff feel with the Koala, or a smoother and milder typing experience with the Peach. Be sure to consider your personal preferences and typing style when deciding between these two switches.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer medium-heavy switches with pronounced tactility and a bit of resonance, the Koala may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a syrupy smooth typing experience and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Peach may be more suited to your preferences. Additionally, both switches have low-pitched and neutral sound profiles, but the Koala offers a variety of feels including polished, accented, stepped, and stiff, while the Peach provides a mild typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should come down to whether you prioritize tactility and resonance or a smooth, linear typing experience.
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