Durock Koala vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Durock Koala, a tactile switch, and the SP-Star RedBlue, a linear switch. The Koala is favored for its stepped tactility, providing a pronounced bump without being overwhelming, making it a great choice for those who want a punchy keystroke without excessive noise. On the other hand, the RedBlue linear switches offer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, perfect for those seeking a smooth and polished typing feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and benefits, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
57g
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
The Durock Koala and SP-Star RedBlue both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that will utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. On the other hand, the Koala's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, adding a unique acoustic characteristic to the switch.
While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, the difference in bottom housing material between the Durock Koala and SP-Star RedBlue leads to distinct typing experiences. The Koala's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper sound profile, while the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing enhances clarity and resonance. When typing on the Koala, the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the nylon bottom housing, providing a softer and fuller typing experience. In contrast, the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing will have a greater impact on the overall sound and feel of releasing a key, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound upon key release.
Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in the Durock Koala and SP-Star RedBlue switches creates unique typing experiences for users. While both switches utilize polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile, the distinction in bottom housing material offers varying degrees of sound depth and resonance. Whether you prefer a softer and fuller sound from the Koala's nylon bottom housing or a sharper and crisper sound from the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing, each switch brings its own acoustic characteristics to the overall typing experience. With careful consideration of the housing materials used in each switch, users can tailor their keyboard setup to achieve the desired sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch differ in weight, with the Koala being heavier and the RedBlue being lighter. The Koala has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In comparison, the RedBlue has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, offering a medium-light feel. The Koala switch requires a stronger push for a more substantial typing experience, while the RedBlue switch allows for a lighter touch, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches provide unique experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals with varying preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a similar tactile feedback and keypress distance. The similarities in travel distance ensure that users will get consistent typing experiences regardless of which switch they choose. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches would likely come down to other factors such as actuation force, sound profile, and overall typing feel.
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 RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch are described as low-pitched and neutral. This means that they both offer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches, making them suitable for various typing environments and preferences. Additionally, the RedBlue switch is also described as thocky, indicating a deep and satisfying sound when pressed and released. Both switches offer a moderate sound profile that is not overly loud, providing a pleasant typing experience for users.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Koala tactile switch is described as polished, accented, stepped, and stiff. This means that it offers a smooth and refined finish, with a medium amount of tactility that is not overwhelming or subtle. The stepped tactile feel provides a pronounced bump that doesn't span the entire keystroke, giving users a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Koala switch leaning towards a more pronounced tactile feel compared to the RedBlue switch.
In conclusion, both the Durock Koala tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Koala switch provides a stepped tactile feel with a more pronounced bump, while the RedBlue switch offers a mild and smooth typing experience. Both switches have low-pitched and neutral sound profiles, making them suitable for various settings. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a more tactile typing experience with the Koala switch or a smoother typing experience with the RedBlue switch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a pronounced tactile bump without being too loud, the Koala may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a more gentle typing experience with a relatively low-pitched sound profile, the RedBlue switch could be more suitable. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so consider factors such as actuation force, tactile feedback, and sound profile when making your decision. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you while typing.
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