Durock Koala vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Koala and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring are both popular options in the tactile category. The Koala offers a perfect balance of tactility with a pronounced bump that doesn't overpower the entire keystroke, providing a satisfying typing experience without being too loud. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a medium level of tactility with a lower actuation and bottom-out force, making it approachable for those who prefer a lighter touch. While the Koala is described as polished, low-pitched, accented, neutral, stepped, and stiff, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is categorized as bouncy. Both switches have their own strengths and unique characteristics, catering to different preferences in typing feel and sound. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Koala and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, we can see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches designed to be used with RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Koala features nylon while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilizes polycarbonate. Nylon is praised for producing a deeper and fuller sound compared to polycarbonate, which provides a duller and rounder sound.
The choice of housing material for the Koala and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring leads to different sound profiles and feels when typing. The nylon bottom housing of the Koala absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller typing experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. When it comes to key presses, the qualities of the bottom housing are more noticeable during typing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key.
Ultimately, the use of different housing materials in the Durock Koala and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring results in distinct typing experiences. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile, the choice of nylon bottom housing in the Koala creates a deeper sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. The tactile experience of these switches is also affected by the housing materials, with the bottom housing influencing the typing feel and sound, and the top housing impacting the sound on key release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the Koala is heavier overall. The Koala has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is medium-heavy, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Koala is not specified, whereas the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an actuation force of 48 grams, which is considered medium-light. This means that the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring requires less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Koala. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring may be the better option. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, the Koala may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the weight of the switch plays a significant role in the typing experience and should be considered based on individual preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance. This similarity ensures that users will get similar results in terms of keypress feel and overall typing experience. In terms of comparing and contrasting their travel distances, both switches offer a standard 4 mm travel distance, making them equally suitable for individuals who prefer a moderate keypress feel. Ultimately, whether you choose the Koala or the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with a consistent travel distance.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring for $3.57.
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 is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is yet to be described in terms of sound, so it may offer a unique sound experience depending on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Koala is polished, accented, stepped, and stiff, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with a medium amount of tactility that is not overwhelming. The switches offer a two-stage tactile feel, allowing for a more controlled and satisfying keystroke. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like feedback sensation that gives keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. This could result in a more dynamic typing experience compared to the Koala.
Considering the available information, it is clear that the Durock Koala and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Koala provides a low-pitched sound profile with a polished and stepped feel, making it suitable for those who prefer a pronounced bump without excessive noise. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a bouncy and lively typing experience that may appeal to users seeking a more dynamic feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. If one prefers a smoother and more controlled keystroke, the Koala may be the better choice, while those looking for a more energetic and bouncy feel may prefer the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a pronounced but not overwhelming tactility with a bit of resonance, the Koala switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force with a very approachable tactility and a deep thocky sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of tactility, sound profile, and typing experience.
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