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Durock Koala vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Koala and the HMX Sunset Gleam offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Durock Koala stands out as a tactile switch with its pronounced, stepped tactility that provides satisfying feedback without overwhelming noise, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a little resistance in their keystrokes without being too loud. Its neutral profile caters to users who appreciate a well-balanced typing experience, combining a polished feel with the subtle resonance typical of tactile switches. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also affectionately known as the Duck Duck switch, takes the spotlight as a linear switch that excels in smoothness and subtlety. With a refined blend of materials that delivers a satisfying clack at the top-out without any distracting noise, this switch is designed for users who prefer uninterrupted keystrokes and a seamless typing experience. Both switches have their unique advantages, whether you seek the tactile feedback of the Koala or the smooth operation of the Sunset Gleam. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing style.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

N/A

Actuation force

42g

Bottom-out force

67g

Bottom-out force

48g

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

Standard

Stem material

POM

Stem material

Ly

Top housing material

Polycarbonate

Top housing material

Polycarbonate

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

The housing materials of both the Durock Koala and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches share a notable similarity in their top housing, as both utilize polycarbonate. This choice of material results in a sound profile characterized by sharpness and clarity. Thanks to polycarbonate's stiffness, users can expect a higher-pitched and crisper auditory experience, which is optimal for incorporating RGB lighting given the material's translucency. Such a sound profile contributes to the overall appeal for gamers or typists who prefer a more pronounced sound when actuating their keys, making both switches suitable for a visually and acoustically engaging environment.

In contrast to the top housing, the bottom housing of both switches is constructed from nylon, creating a significant departure from the characteristics provided by polycarbonate. Nylon's softer composition offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound energy and thus contributing to a mellower auditory experience when typing. This duality in housing materials allows users to experience different sound qualities: the polycarbonate top delivers brightness during key releases, while the nylon bottom creates a rounder sound during key presses. Consequently, the combination of these two materials plays a pivotal role in shaping the overall typing experience, providing a well-rounded auditory feedback system.

Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the Durock Koala and the HMX Sunset Gleam allow them both to deliver unique yet complementary sound profiles. While the Koala benefits from the sharper tones of polycarbonate on top paired with the fuller nylon sound below, the Sunset Gleam similarly offers this contrast. If users appreciate the sound characteristics of one switch, they’ll find the same intrinsic qualities echoed in the other: both switches maintain a balance of crispness from the polycarbonate upper and depth from the nylon lower, ensuring a satisfying typing and auditory experience across the board.

Weight

When comparing the Durock Koala tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, it's evident that they differ significantly in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Koala tactile switch has an unknown actuation force but features a bottom out force of 67 grams, which categorizes it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a lighter option overall. This distinction suggests that users who prefer a more substantial typing experience might lean toward the Koala due to its heavier bottom out force, while those seeking a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions would favor the Sunset Gleam. Since the actuation force of the Koala is not specified, it's difficult to draw direct comparisons for that metric, but the difference in bottom out forces clearly illustrates the Koala's heavier feel compared to the Sunset Gleam's more delicate touch.

Travel distance

The Durock Koala tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch exhibit different travel distances, with the Koala featuring a travel distance of 4 mm and the Sunset Gleam at 3.5 mm. This makes the Koala the longer switch, providing a deeper feel that some users may prefer for a more tactile response when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam’s shorter 3.5 mm travel distance aligns with the contemporary trend of faster response times, which is often favored by gamers seeking quicker actuation. While both switches offer unique benefits depending on user preference, those who appreciate a more pronounced depth will gravitate towards the Koala, while individuals prioritizing speed and responsiveness may opt for the Sunset Gleam. Thus, your choice will ultimately depend on whether you value depth or rapid actuation in your switch experience.

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 Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.

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 produces a low-pitched tone that gives it a bass-heavy and mellow character, creating a pleasant auditory experience that won’t distract those around you. This neutral sound profile also makes it versatile enough for various environments, whether at work or home. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam switch is known for its satisfying clack, delivering a subtle yet pronounced top-out sound due to its exceptional material blend and factory lubrication. While the specific sound descriptors for the Sunset Gleam aren't detailed, it can be inferred that it likely provides a more pronounced and crisp sound, complementing the smoothness of its linear action.

In the feel category, the Koala stands out with its polished finish, which offers a refined and smooth typing experience, minimizing friction and allowing for comfortable key travel. The stepped tactility gives it a unique sensation, providing a noticeable bump without overwhelming the user, making it wonderfully suited for tactile enthusiasts. Furthermore, the Koala’s stiffness means users will require a bit more force to actuate the keys, which some may find rewarding. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam lacks specific descriptors for feel, but as a linear switch, one can expect it to offer a smooth and continuous keystroke, absent of tactile bumps. Linear switches are often favored for their light and unresisted feel, catering to those who prioritize speed and fluidity over tactility.

Overall, both the Durock Koala and HMX Sunset Gleam switches cater to distinct preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. The Koala offers a balanced tactile experience with its rich auditory and tactile feedback that strikes a perfect middle ground for those who enjoy some resistance and sound. Meanwhile, the Sunset Gleam provides an emphasis on smoothness and a crisp sound, ideal for users seeking seamless keystrokes and quick actions. Depending on individual preferences for either tactile feedback or linear fluidity, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, albeit in different ways. If you're looking for nuanced feedback with a touch of sound, the Koala makes a strong case; however, if you prefer an uninterrupted and swift action, the Sunset Gleam will likely meet those needs.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch ultimately boils down to your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a keystroke that provides a noticeable tactile bump without being overwhelmingly harsh, the Koala is the ideal choice for you. Its medium-heavy actuation force of 67 grams ensures that you have a satisfying typing experience, particularly if you prefer a more pronounced feedback while typing or gaming. Additionally, if you value a lower-pitched sound that remains relatively neutral, the Koala’s acoustic profile complements a diverse range of environments, from home to office settings. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more fluid typing experience with less resistance, the Sunset Gleam would be more suited to your needs. With its light 48-gram bottom-out force, this linear switch enables effortless keystrokes, making it perfect for rapid typing or gaming sessions where speed is crucial. Its well-executed factory lubrication and clack sound also enhance the overall experience. Ultimately, if you appreciate tactile feedback and a bit of resistance, choose the Koala; if you favor speed and a smooth feel, opt for the Sunset Gleam. Each switch offers distinctive qualities that cater to different typing styles, so your choice should reflect what feels best for you.

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