Durock Koala vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Koala, a tactile switch, and the Dareu Sky V4, a linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Koalas are ideal for those who enjoy a tactile feedback without it being too overwhelming, providing a pronounced bump without being too noisy. On the other hand, the Sky V4 stands out for its smooth linear action and deeper sound signature, offering a satisfying typing experience. 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
45g
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
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Koala and the Dareu Sky V4, it is evident that both switches share a nylon bottom housing. This classic switch housing material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softness of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. While both switches may have similar bottom housings, the differences arise in their top housings. The Koala features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness and clarity. In contrast, the Sky V4 boasts a POK top housing, which contributes to smooth, clacky, and durable switches with exceptional strength and wear resistance.
Despite their differing top housing materials, the Durock Koala and the Dareu Sky V4 both excel in providing distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences to their users. The polycarbonate top housing of the Koala offers a clear and resonant sound, while the POK top housing of the Sky V4 delivers smooth and clacky sensations. When it comes to durability, the POK material surpasses other materials, making the Sky V4 a reliable option for long-lasting switches. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing shared by both switches enhances the depth and fullness of the sound produced, showcasing the classic qualities of this material in switch construction.
In conclusion, the choice between the Durock Koala and the Dareu Sky V4 ultimately depends on the user's preference for sound profile, tactile feel, and durability. While the Koala's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharp and crisp sound, the Sky V4's POK material provides a smoother and clacky experience. Both switches utilize a nylon bottom housing for enhanced sound depth, making them reliable options for users seeking a classic switch housing material. Whether you prioritize clarity and resonance or smoothness and durability in your switches, both the Koala and the Sky V4 offer unique qualities to cater to various preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it is evident that the Koala has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the Sky V4's 55 grams. The actuation force of the Koala is not specified, while the Sky V4 has an actuation force of 45 grams. This indicates that the Koala may require a heavier initial force to trigger a keystroke than the Sky V4. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Sky V4 may be the better option, as it has lighter actuation and bottom out forces. Conversely, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may gravitate towards the Koala for its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the weight of the switch plays a significant role in determining the typing experience, with lighter switches being favored for longer typing sessions and heavier switches offering a more pronounced push feel.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, we can see that the Koala has a travel distance of 4 mm while the Sky V4 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Koala has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Sky V4. The difference of 0.4 mm may not seem significant, but it can be noticeable for some users. If you prefer a switch with a bit more depth in the travel distance, the Durock Koala may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Dareu Sky V4 might be a better choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable to you.
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 Dareu Sky V4 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V4 for $4.76.
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 switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch produces a thocky, neutral, and low-pitched sound, creating a deep and satisfying typing experience with each keystroke. Both switches offer unique sound signatures that cater to different preferences, and the choice between the two would depend on the user's sound preference and typing environment.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Koala switch is described as polished, accented, stepped, and stiff, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a medium level of tactility and a noticeable bump that doesn't span the entire keystroke. In comparison, the Dareu Sky V4 switch is characterized as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. The feel of each switch is tailored to specific typing preferences, with the Koala focusing on a balanced tactile experience and the Sky V4 emphasizing a responsive and bouncy keystroke.
In conclusion, the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Koala is known for its pronounced bump and moderate sound profile, while the Sky V4 stands out for its innovative material usage and thocky sound signature. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a tactile typing experience with a focus on sound or a smooth linear action with a bouncy feel. Keep in mind that personal preference, typing style, and the overall setup of your keyboard will also play a crucial role in determining which switch is the best fit for you.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, tactility, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a stepped tactile experience with some resonance and a low-pitched sound, the Koala would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a smooth linear action with POK material in the top housing for a deeper sound signature, and a bouncy feel when typing, then the Sky V4 switch would be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and the typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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