Durock Koala vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Koala, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, a linear switch, there are distinct features that make each one unique. The Koala is popular for its balanced tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump without being too overwhelming, along with a touch of resonance for a pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver is known for its lightning-fast actuation due to its short travel distance, along with a thocky sound, extreme smoothness, and a light keystroke. While the Koala offers a tactile typing experience, the Smoothie Silver provides a smooth and fast 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Koala and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, it is evident that they both prioritize sound profile in their design. The Koala utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver boasts a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials have their unique characteristics, the Koala's polycarbonate top housing may be more suitable for those who prefer a clear and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting, while the Smoothie Silver's POM top housing could appeal to individuals looking for a deeper and more subdued sound experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Koala features a nylon material that generates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Smoothie Silver also utilizes POM for its bottom housing, resulting in a sound profile that is pleasing and unique, leaning towards the deeper end of the spectrum. Both materials excel in providing a distinct sound experience, catering to different preferences based on the desired sound profile.
While the housing materials of the Durock Koala and the Gateron Smoothie Silver differ in terms of top and bottom housing, they ultimately aim to enhance the overall typing experience for users. The split design of the housing materials allows for a more nuanced sound profile, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, whether you prefer a sharper and clearer sound profile from polycarbonate or a deeper and more muted sound from POM, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different sound preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, we can see a clear difference in the weight required for each. The Koala has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it is a lighter switch in terms of the force needed to register a keypress. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it slightly heavier in comparison. When it comes to bottom out force, the Koala requires 67 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy, while the Smoothie Silver's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Koala provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier weight overall, while the Smoothie Silver offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a gentler keystroke. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a lighter or heavier actuation force for your typing needs.
Travel distance
The Durock Koala tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Smoothie Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Koala. While both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, some users may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Smoothie Silver for a quicker response time, especially for tasks like gaming. On the other hand, the Koala's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and 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 Gateron Smoothie Silver has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie Silver for $2.60.
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 sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This gives a moderate and neutral sound ideal for various environments, whether you are a beginner or advanced user. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is described as having a thocky sound, offering a unique and smooth typing experience suitable for those seeking a feather-light touch during keystrokes.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Koala tactile switch is known for its polished and accented properties, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with a moderate amount of tactility. The stepped design of the Koala gives users a unique feel with a pronounced bump that is not overwhelming, allowing for a comfortable typing experience. Meanwhile, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch's feel characteristics are not specified.
Overall, the Durock Koala tactile switch offers a unique typing experience with a polished and accented feel, combined with a low-pitched sound profile that caters to those who prefer a moderate tactility in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch provides a thocky sound and a feather-light touch that is ideal for users looking for a lightning-fast actuation during typing sessions. Depending on individual preferences, users can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel with both switches, ultimately providing a satisfying typing experience based on their personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a pronounced bump and some resonance, the Koala would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no bottom out force, a short travel distance, and a thocky sound, the Smoothie Silver would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prioritize tactility and medium-heavy feel with the Koala or smoothness and a feather-light touch with the Smoothie Silver. Choose wisely based on your typing preferences and environment.
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