Durock Koala vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Koala and the KTT Pine offer distinct experiences for users. The Durock Koala is a tactile switch that strikes a perfect balance for those seeking a keystroke with a noticeable bump but not overwhelming. With its stepped tactility and pronounced bump, the Koalas provide a satisfying feel without being too loud. On the other hand, the KTT Pine is a linear switch known for its medium-heavy actuation, buttery smooth feel, and effortless typing experience. The factory-lubed finish of the Pine switches minimizes friction for smooth key travel. Each switch brings unique characteristics to the table, making them appealing choices for different preferences. 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
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Koala and the KTT Pine, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate plays a significant role in enhancing the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for those who wish to incorporate RGB lighting into their keyboards, as it allows for the passage of light through the housing.
However, where the two switches diverge is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Koala opts for a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing used in the Pine. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that utilize this material. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Pine contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its relatively stiffer composition. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound produced by the switches.
When considering the overall impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note how the qualities of each material are distributed across the switch. The properties of the bottom housing material will have a more noticeable effect on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed, while the top housing material will influence the sound produced when releasing a key. Understanding these distinctions provides valuable insight into how the choice of housing material can affect the typing experience and ultimately the user's satisfaction with the switch.
Weight
The Durock Koala tactile switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the KTT Pine linear switch has a lighter bottom out force of 58 grams, which falls into the medium category. The actuation force for the Koala is not specified, while the Pine has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is on the lighter side. These differences in force make the Koala more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Pine would be better suited for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring that regardless of choice, users will achieve a satisfactory typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Koala tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches, providing a consistent typing experience. It is worth noting that while the travel distance is the same for both switches, the tactile feedback and actuation force may vary between the two, offering different typing experiences to suit individual preferences.
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 Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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 provides a low-pitched and neutral tone, offering a bass-heavy and mellow sound profile that is suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch delivers a bassy and low-pitched sound, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Depending on your choice of keyboard and keycaps, both switches offer a pleasant auditory experience that is not overly loud.
In terms of feel, the Durock Koala switch boasts a polished, accented, stepped, and stiff typing experience. The polished finish and factory lubing result in reduced friction and smooth key travel, while the stepped tactility offers a unique two-stage keystroke sensation. The stiff nature of the switch requires a higher amount of force to actuate, providing tactile feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the KTT Pine switch offers a buttery and creamy typing experience, characterized by smooth and fluid keystrokes that effortlessly glide across the keys. The factory-lubed finish minimizes friction for a seamless and uniform typing sensation.
Overall, the Durock Koala tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch each offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Koala provides a pronounced bump with a neutral and low-pitched sound profile, coupled with a polished and stepped feel that requires a higher actuation force. In contrast, the Pine switch delivers a buttery and creamy typing experience with a bassy and low-pitched sound, offering smooth key travel and effortless key presses. Both switches cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will depend on whether you prefer a more tactile or linear typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, consider your preference for tactility and sound profile. If you enjoy a pronounced bump with medium-heavy bottom-out force and a low-pitched sound, the Koala might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with medium bottom-out force and a bassy, low-pitched sound, the Pine switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and whether you prioritize tactility or smoothness in your keyboard switches.
Mentioned in this article
