Durock Koala vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Durock Koala and Outemu Phoenix are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Koala is a tactile switch, known for its balanced tactility and pronounced bump without being too loud. On the other hand, the Phoenix is a clicky switch, featuring a unique under-skirt click mechanism that provides a crystalline and sparkling sound profile. Each switch has its own characteristics and appeal, offering options for those who prefer a more subtle tactile feel or a distinct clicky sound. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Both the Durock Koala and the Outemu Phoenix feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that feature RGB lighting, as the light shines through the clear housing, creating an aesthetically pleasing effect.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Koala utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material. In contrast, the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharper, crisper sound profile associated with polycarbonate, providing a different tactile and auditory experience for users.
Overall, the combination of housing materials in each switch plays a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of the keyboard. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, the difference in their bottom housing materials results in distinct sound experiences. The Koala's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Ultimately, users can choose between these options based on their preferences for sound quality and typing feel.
Weight
The Durock Koala tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch both have a similar actuation force of None grams, making them ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Koala requires 67 grams, while the Phoenix requires 62 grams. This means that the Koala is slightly heavier, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Phoenix is slightly lighter, making it a good choice for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference, with the Koala offering a heavier feel and the Phoenix providing a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Durock Koala tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Koala has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Phoenix. A longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and deliberate keystroke, making it a preferred choice for those who enjoy a deeper typing experience. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Phoenix may appeal to gamers or individuals looking for quicker response times. Both switches offer unique benefits, so the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference.Ultimately, the Koala offers a longer travel distance for a more deliberate keystroke, while the Phoenix provides a shorter travel distance for quicker response times.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 not overly loud. In comparison, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offers a crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. When it comes to the feel, both the Koala and Phoenix switches are described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. The Koala switch is also accented and stepped, providing a medium level of tactility with a pronounced bump that doesn't span the entire keystroke. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch is known for its unique under-skirt click mechanism, offering a crystalline and sparkling feel during typing.
Overall, while the Koala and Phoenix switches differ in sound and feel, both provide a high-quality typing experience for users looking for tactile or clicky switches. If you prefer a low-pitched sound with a pronounced but not overwhelming tactility, the Durock Koala switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a crunchy sound and a unique typing experience, the Outemu Phoenix switch could be a great option. Ultimately, both switches offer excellent performance and can enhance your typing experience depending on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who prefers a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoys a tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump but not overwhelming, then the Durock Koala switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a medium bottom out force and are looking for a unique, clicky switch with a crisp and crunchy sound profile, the Outemu Phoenix switches would be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for tactility, sound, and overall typing experience. Consider what features are most important to you and choose the switch that best aligns with your preferences.
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