Durock Koala vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Koala and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) mechanical keyboard switches, it's evident that both offer a tactile typing experience but with different characteristics. The Koala is known for its pronounced bump that provides a satisfying keystroke without being overly loud, making it a great option for those who enjoy a tactile feel without excessive noise. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White (V2) offers a medium tactile feel with a precise level of resistance, perfect for those seeking a comfortable typing experience in a quiet environment. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Durock Koala and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound that is ideal for those looking to enhance their typing experience with RGB lighting. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate adds a visually appealing aspect to the switches. However, while both switches share this common characteristic in their top housing material, the differences lie in the bottom housing material.
The Koala features a bottom housing made of nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound while typing. Nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a focus on enhanced sound quality. Despite having different top housings, both switches provide a unique typing experience by combining the distinctive qualities of polycarbonate and nylon in their respective housing materials.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall typing experience, it is clear that each material contributes specific qualities to the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key. By utilizing different materials for the top and bottom housings, the Durock Koala and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) are able to offer users a balanced combination of sharpness, depth, and resonance in their sound profiles, creating a satisfying typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, it's clear that there are notable differences between the two. The Durock Koala has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, while the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has a lower bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a lighter switch. The actuation force of the Koala is not specified, but for the Silent Bluish White (V2), it is 42 grams. This indicates that the Silent Bluish White (V2) requires less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Koala. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Silent Bluish White (V2) may be more suitable, allowing for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Durock Koala may appeal to users seeking a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Koala tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Koala has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Silent Bluish White (V2). The difference in travel distance may result in a slightly different typing experience between the two switches. If you prefer a switch with a more traditional travel distance, the Koala may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a switch with a slightly shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Silent Bluish White (V2) may be the more suitable choice. In general, both switches offer similar tactile feedback and can provide a satisfying typing experience, but the difference in travel distance may be a deciding factor for some 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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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 offers a low-pitched and neutral profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for most purposes. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch is described as producing a muted and softer sound, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Both switches aim to provide a quiet typing experience, making them suitable for office or shared living space use. The choice between the two would come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Durock Koala tactile switch is noted for its polished, accented, stepped, and stiff characteristics, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a pronounced but not overwhelming tactility that is not scratchy. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch is described as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished, providing a gentle and uniform typing sensation with a more approachable feel for most users. Both switches fall within the medium tactile range, offering a comfortable typing experience with varying levels of resistance.
In conclusion, both the Durock Koala and TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switches offer unique combinations of sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Koalas provide a more pronounced and slightly more tactile typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the Silent Bluish Whites focus on a softer and quieter typing experience with a more gentle feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether you prioritize a slightly more pronounced tactility or a quieter typing experience. Nonetheless, both switches offer satisfying tactile feedback and a comfortable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and tactility. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force with a pronounced bump that doesn't span the entire keystroke, the Koala may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force with a precise and comfortable typing experience that is also quiet, the Silent Bluish White (V2) could be the ideal option. Additionally, if you are looking for a low-pitched sound and polished feel, the Koala may be more suitable, while if you prefer a muted sound and a buttery typing experience, the Silent Bluish White (V2) might be the better fit. Ultimately, it all comes down to your personal preferences in terms of typing experience and sound profile. Consider these factors carefully before making your decision on which switch to choose.
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