Durock Koala vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Koala and HMX SU stand out as two popular options that cater to different typing preferences. The Durock Koala, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its nuanced stepped tactility, providing a satisfying keystroke experience that combines punchy feedback with a moderate level of resonance, all while maintaining a low pitch that won’t disturb your surroundings. This makes it an excellent choice for typists who enjoy the satisfying feel of a tactile bump without the noise associated with louder switches. In contrast, the HMX SU, a linear switch, offers a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, characterized by its full PA12 housing and T5 stem, producing a more subtle and deeper sound profile. This makes the HMX SU an ideal choice for gamers or users seeking a quiet and fluid typing experience. While both switches bring unique qualities to the table, the Koala is suited for those who appreciate tactile feedback, whereas the SU appeals to those who favor a seamless and silent operation. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In examining the Durock Koala and the HMX SU, we observe notable differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles and aesthetic qualities. The Koala features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper and more resonant sound due to its stiffer composition. This material allows for clearer, high-pitched tones, making it an ideal choice for users who appreciate a more defined auditory experience. Furthermore, the translucence of polycarbonate enhances the visual appeal when utilizing RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant and uniform lighting effects. In contrast, the HMX SU employs a nylon top housing, which is characterized by its inherently softer texture. This leads to a deeper, fuller sound profile that is often perceived as warmer and rounder than that of polycarbonate. Users of the SU may find the auditory experience to feel less sharp but more immersive due to the sound absorption properties of nylon.
Interestingly, both the Koala and the SU share a commonality in their bottom housing material, which is also nylon. This consistency in the bottom housing means that, regardless of the differences in the top housing, both switches are likely to yield a similar tactile experience when bottoming out. Since both employ nylon, users can expect the same deeper and fuller sound profile associated with the material. The overall impact of the nylon bottom housing means that both switches will provide a solid and satisfying feel while typing, emphasizing the qualities of sound absorption and a rounded auditory experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Koala and the HMX SU hinges on individual preferences for sound and aesthetic qualities. Users looking for a more distinct and sharper sound might gravitate towards the Koala due to its polycarbonate top housing, while those who favor a fuller and warmer sound profile may prefer the HMX SU. However, thanks to their shared nylon bottom housings, both switches will provide a consistent tactile performance, ensuring that users enjoy a satisfying typing experience regardless of their choice. Thus, while the upper housing significantly impacts the tonal qualities during key release, the bottom housing manages to unify the overall experience due to its sound-absorbing characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Koala tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Koala switch has an unknown actuation force, but its bottom out force is measured at 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. In contrast, the HMX SU switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the SU switch is not only the lighter option in terms of actuation but also provides a softer overall feel during use, making it suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions without causing fatigue. Conversely, the Koala, with its heavier bottom out force, may appeal to those seeking a more substantial feel while typing, as the tactile feedback is likely to be more pronounced. Therefore, users who prefer a lighter touch would gravitate towards the HMX SU switch, while those who favor a stronger push experience might choose the Durock Koala.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch, we find that the Koala has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the SU measures 3.6 mm. This means that the Durock Koala offers a longer travel distance, providing a more traditional and substantial feel when pressed, which some users may find more satisfying. On the other hand, the HMX SU linear switch, with its shorter 3.6 mm travel, caters to those who prefer quicker actuation and faster response times, making it potentially more suitable for gaming or rapid typing scenarios. In summary, if you value a deeper, more tactile experience, the Durock Koala is the better choice, whereas the HMX SU is ideal for users seeking responsiveness and a swift key action.
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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 characterized by a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. This means that when you type, you can expect a mellow, bass-heavy tone that isn't overly disruptive, making it suitable for various environments, from quiet home settings to busy offices. The subdued resonance adds to the overall experience without becoming a distraction. On the other hand, the HMX SU linear switch's sound characteristics are not specified; hence, it's challenging to make a direct comparison. However, keep in mind that sound is influenced by many factors, including the type of keyboard and keycaps you use, which can affect how both types of switches will sound in practice.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Koala offers a polished and accented tactile experience. The switch is smooth and refined, providing a sleek typing experience due to factory lubing and high-quality materials. The stepped tactility provides an engaging feel, giving you confidence in your keystrokes without the overwhelming sensation that can come from more hypertactile switches. In contrast, the tactile qualities of the HMX SU remain unspecified. Without this information, we cannot ascertain how its feel compares to the established tactile feedback of the Koala.
In conclusion, while the Durock Koala tactile switch offers a low-pitched, subdued sound and a polished, accented feel with a stepped tactile experience, the characteristics of the HMX SU linear switch remain unclear, particularly in terms of sound and feel. If you are looking for a switch that provides an engaging tactile response with a comfortable sound level, the Koala is a solid choice. However, for those intrigued by linear switches, the SU may still offer a satisfactory typing experience, though it would require personal testing to determine how it stacks up against the Koala's qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you enjoy a tactile feedback that provides a pronounced bump without being too overwhelming, the Koala is an excellent choice. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams ensures each keystroke feels substantial, making it ideal for users who prefer a bit of resistance while typing. The Koala’s polished feel and low-pitched sound make it suitable for both work and gaming, offering a refined experience suitable for various settings. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter touch with a smooth and subtle keypress, the HMX SU linear switch, with its 50-gram bottom-out force, would serve you well. Its deeper sound profile offers a unique auditory experience that pairs beautifully with the smooth actuation of the linear switch, making it particularly appealing for those who prefer fast, uninterrupted key presses. In essence, if you seek a balance between tactile feedback and a satisfying typing experience, go with the Koala; but if you’re looking for speed and a seamless travel experience, the HMX SU will be your best bet.
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