Durock Koala vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Koala and the SP-Star Polaris Purple mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Durock Koala offers a balanced tactile experience with a pronounced bump that doesn't overwhelm, making it a great option for those who enjoy a responsive keystroke without excessive noise. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple delivers a more intense tactile sensation with a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, perfect for those who crave a bolder 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
While both the Durock Koala and the SP-Star Polaris Purple use polycarbonate for their top housing, the Koala distinguishes itself with a nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing. This contrast in bottom housing materials affects the overall typing experience, with the Koala likely offering a softer and more absorbing feel upon key presses. In terms of aesthetics, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing, especially for those who want to incorporate RGB lighting into their setup.
The choice of housing materials in the Durock Koala and the SP-Star Polaris Purple significantly impacts the sound profile of each switch. Both switches share the sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile characteristic of polycarbonate top housings. However, the Koala's nylon bottom housing adds a distinct quality to its sound, offering a deeper and fuller typing experience compared to the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing. This difference in bottom housing material results in a unique tactile feel for each switch, appealing to users with varying preferences in sound and typing feedback.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the Durock Koala and the SP-Star Polaris Purple contribute to their individual characteristics and typing experiences. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a clear and resonant sound profile, the choice of nylon for the Koala's bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing. This nuanced contrast showcases the importance of housing materials in keyboard switches, allowing users to tailor their typing experience to their preferences based on factors such as sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
Both the Durock Koala and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switches have the same actuation force of None grams, making them equally sensitive to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, both switches have a medium-heavy force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience compared to lighter switches. The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider based on personal preferences. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for a switch like the Koala to type for longer periods comfortably, especially during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel may lean towards the Polaris Purple for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom-out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Koala and SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switches have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distances, it is evident that both switches provide a similar user experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you choose the Koala or the Polaris Purple switch, you can expect to receive consistent results in terms of travel distance. Overall, the travel distance of these switches is designed to provide a satisfying tactile feel when typing or gaming, offering a smooth and responsive keystroke 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 SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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
In terms of sound, both the Durock Koala and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes and environments. The Koala offers a low-pitched sound, which provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple has a snappy sound quality that can enhance the tactile typing experience. The sound of these switches can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Koala is described as having a polished, accented, stepped, and stiff feel. The polished finish and reduced friction provide a smooth and refined typing experience, while the accented tactility offers a medium level of tactile feedback that is not overwhelming. The stepped design of the Koala gives a two-stage tactile feel, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel, and the stiffness of the switch requires more force to actuate and bottom-out. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switches offer a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone for most users.
Overall, both the Durock Koala and SP-Star Polaris Purple switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Koala provides a pronounced bump and a bit of resonance with a more stepped tactility, the Polaris Purple delivers a big tactile bump for an exhilarating typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a smoother, more polished typing feel with accented tactility or a snappier, mildly tactile experience, you can choose between these two switches to enhance your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a pronounced bump that doesn't span the entire keystroke, the Durock Koala would be a great choice for you. The Koalas are perfect for those who want a punchy keystroke without being too overwhelming, along with a bit of resonance without being excessively loud. However, if you prefer a more exhilarating tactile typing experience with a big tactile bump and a snappy sound profile, then the SP-Star Polaris Purple would be the better option for you. The Polaris Purple offers a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish, making it suitable for a wide range of users. Ultimately, your choice between the Durock Koala and SP-Star Polaris Purple will depend on your preference for tactile feel and sound profile.
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