Durock Koala vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Koala and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Durock Koala is a tactile switch that strikes a balance between providing a noticeable bump without being too overwhelming. It offers a satisfying keystroke with a pronounced bump that doesn't extend throughout the entire press, resulting in a polished, low-pitched, and subtly accented typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is a linear switch that stands out for its innovative semi-silent design. It delivers a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound, offering a silky smooth typing experience with a subdued, mild, and buttery feel. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Koala and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for use in switches with RGB lighting. However, while the top housings of both switches are the same material, they may have slightly different sound profiles due to variations in design and construction.
On the other hand, the Koala's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Similarly, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear also features a nylon bottom housing for a rounder and duller sound. The difference in bottom housing material between the two switches may result in distinct typing experiences, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Koala and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear may come down to personal preference in sound and feel. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound, the difference in bottom housing material may lead to variations in typing experiences. Ultimately, users should consider their priorities in sound profile, feel, and aesthetic preferences when selecting between these two switches.
Weight
The Durock Koala tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch both have the same actuation force of None grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Koala is heavier at 67 grams compared to the Semi-Silent Linear at 62 grams. This makes the Koala switch slightly heavier, providing a more substantial typing experience compared to the Semi-Silent Linear switch. Generally, a lighter actuation force is preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming, while a heavier bottom out force can offer a more satisfying typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. In this case, users can expect a similar actuation experience with both switches, but the Koala will provide a slightly heavier bottom out force for a more solid feel.
Travel distance
The Durock Koala tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Durock Koala switch. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall typing or gaming experience. Shorter travel distances are often preferred by gamers for faster response times, while longer travel distances can provide a more satisfying and deeper key press feel. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, so ultimately the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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, the Durock Koala tactile switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone without being overly loud. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch is described as having a subdued sound that is dampened when pressed, providing a more subtle sound signature while still maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. Both switches fall into the neutral category, making them suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Koala tactile switch is characterized by its polished, accented, stepped, and stiff qualities. This means the switch offers a smooth and refined typing experience with a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming. The stepped design provides a mild tactile feedback with pre-travel and/or post-travel, while the stiffness requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch is described as mild, snappy, buttery, and polished. This indicates a gentle typing experience with responsive feedback, a smooth and fluid keystroke, and reduced friction for a sleek typing experience.
In conclusion, the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of both sound and feel. The Koala provides a middle ground of tactile feedback with a low-pitched sound profile, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear offers a semi-silent experience with a subdued sound signature. Both switches are suitable for a variety of users and typing preferences, providing a balanced mix of tactile response and sound characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a pronounced bump without being overly loud, the Koala is a solid choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a silky smooth linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a whisper-quiet topping-out sound, the Semi-Silent Linear is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactility or smoothness in your typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities, so choose the one that aligns with your preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
