Durock Koala vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Koala and Outemu Red Panda are both popular choices for tactile enthusiasts. The Koalas are a great option for those who enjoy a tactile bump that is pronounced but not overwhelming, providing a satisfying keystroke experience without being overly loud. On the other hand, the Red Pandas offer a lighter tactility with a unique bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and qualities that cater to 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
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
No
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
The housing materials of the Durock Koala and the Outemu Red Panda share many similarities, as both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for a more vibrant display. This similarity in housing material between the Koala and Red Panda may lead to comparable sound profiles and overall typing experiences.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Durock Koala boasts a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience. This shared characteristic between the bottom housings of the two switches may lead to comparable sound profiles and tactile sensations when typing.
Overall, while the Durock Koala and the Outemu Red Panda have differences in their bottom housing materials, their shared polycarbonate top housings result in similar sound profiles and typing experiences. The impact of each housing material is felt differently when typing on the switches – the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a role in the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound profile with nylon or a sharper, crisper sound with polycarbonate, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
In comparing the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is evident that the Koala is the heavier of the two. The Koala has an actuation force of None grams, making it difficult to determine the exact force required, and a bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category. On the other hand, the Red Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium range. The difference in actuation force between the two switches is notable, with the Koala requiring a potentially higher force to trigger a keystroke. When considering weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Red Panda for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Koala for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Koala tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Red Panda for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the longer travel distance of the Koala. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their travel distance, with the Koala providing a slightly deeper keypress compared to the Red Panda's shallower feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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 profile, creating a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various use cases. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offers a thocky sound, producing a deep and satisfying "thud" or "knock" when the key is pressed and released. Both switches provide unique acoustic experiences that can be further influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Regarding feel, the Durock Koala switch is praised for its polished, accented, stepped, and stiff characteristics, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a medium amount of tactility that is not overwhelming. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda switch provides a milder typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users, standing in a safe middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer distinct tactile feedback and key travel sensations that can cater to different typing preferences.
In conclusion, the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch each bring their own set of subjective qualities to the table. The Koala provides a more pronounced bump and a low-pitched sound, while the Red Panda offers a lighter tactility and a thocky sound profile. Depending on personal preferences for typing feel and sound aesthetics, users can choose between the two switches to achieve similar results in terms of performance and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Koala and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switches, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a pronounced, stepped tactility that doesn't span the entire keystroke, along with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, the Durock Koala may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force, light-medium tactility, a bassier bottom-out sound, and a clackier top-out sound, along with a thocky typing experience, the Outemu Red Panda could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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