Durock Koala vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Koala, a tactile switch, with the HMX Swift, a linear switch, it is evident that both offer unique characteristics to cater to different preferences. The Koala is ideal for those looking for a tactile switch that offers a satisfying bump without being too overwhelming, providing a balanced typing experience with a bit of resonance. On the other hand, the Swift stands out for its smoothness and lighter actuation force, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter and softer typing feel. 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
3.90 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
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 extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Koala and the HMX Swift, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound absorption properties. This means that when typing on either the Koala or the Swift, users can expect a more round and muted sound when bottoming out keys. The difference in materials comes with the top housing, where the Koala features a polycarbonate material that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a more resonant sound.
Despite the difference in top housing materials, both the Durock Koala and the HMX Swift offer a unique typing experience due to their choice of nylon for the bottom housing. The use of nylon in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. However, the polycarbonate top housing of the Koala creates a sharper and more resonant sound compared to the more muted sound produced by the nylon top housing of the Swift. This variation in sound quality showcases how different housing materials can impact the overall feel and acoustics of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Koala and the HMX Swift will depend on the user's preference for sound profile. Those who prefer a sharper and crisper sound may lean towards the Koala with its polycarbonate top housing, while individuals who enjoy a deeper and fuller sound may find the Swift with its nylon top housing more appealing. Both switches offer a unique typing experience thanks to the nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a more muted sound when bottoming out keys. By understanding the impact of housing materials on sound quality, users can make an informed decision based on their personal preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Koala tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is clear that they offer different typing experiences. The Koala has no specified actuation force, making it difficult to determine the exact force required to trigger a keystroke, while the Swift has a light actuation force of 42 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Koala has a heavier weight of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience, compared to the Swift's lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Swift, ideal for extended typing sessions, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may lean towards the Koala for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The Durock Koala tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances, with the Koala being slightly longer than the Swift. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more substantial and satisfying keypress. However, both switches offer a relatively similar travel distance, so users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of key travel on either switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for key feel and typing 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 Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Koala tactile switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound experience, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving off a crisp and bright sound profile. When it comes to feel, the Koala switch offers a polished, accented, stepped, and stiff typing experience, providing a smooth and refined finish with a medium amount of tactility that is not overwhelming. In contrast, the Swift switch is characterized as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy, offering gentle resistance during key presses with a light actuation force, making typing effortless and comfortable with a smooth and buttery typing experience. Overall, while the Koala and Swift switches differ in sound and feel qualities, both provide unique and satisfying keystroke experiences tailored to different preferences. Whether you prefer a tactile switch with a pronounced bump or a linear switch with a silky smooth actuation, both options offer high-quality performance for your mechanical keyboard needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a pronounced bump and some resonance without being too loud, the Koala would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force with a silky smooth feel and a deeper sound profile, the Swift may be more suited to your liking. Consider your sound and feel preferences when making your decision, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences for the optimal typing experience.
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