Durock Koala vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Koala and the Durock T1 mechanical keyboard switches, you are faced with two excellent options in the tactile switch category. The Koalas offer a perfect balance for those who enjoy a tactile response that is not too aggressive, providing a pronounced bump without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the T1 switch is lauded for its comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a soothing sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. Both switches have their unique characteristics and appeal to different preferences, but ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
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
Housing materials
The Durock Koala and Durock T1 both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for RGB lighting. While the top housing of both switches is the same material, the different bottom housing materials provide a contrast in sound profiles. The Koala's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the T1's polycarbonate bottom housing creates a clear and resonant sound like the top housing.
Despite their differences in bottom housing, the top housings of the Durock Koala and Durock T1 have a similar impact on the sound profile of the switches. The use of polycarbonate in both top housings results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This consistent material choice ensures that users can expect similar sound characteristics when typing on either switch. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Koala and T1 provides a noticeable contrast in sound, with the Koala offering a deeper and fuller sound compared to the T1's clearer and resonant sound.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Koala and T1 may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. The Koala's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a unique deep and full sound, while the T1's consistent use of polycarbonate results in a clear and resonant sound profile throughout. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing for a sharper sound, emphasizing the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience and sound quality.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of None grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Koala has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is medium-heavy, while the T1 also has a bottom out force of 67 grams. This makes both switches equally heavy when it comes to pressing all the way down. The difference in weight between the two switches may not be significant, but it could still impact typing comfort and preference. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of these switches for extended typing sessions, while others may appreciate the heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Koala and T1 switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Durock Koala tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of both switches, it can be concluded that they will provide a similar typing experience in terms of keypress feel and travel distance. This means that users can expect consistent results and familiarity when using either the Koala or T1 switches. The equal travel distance of 4 mm showcases Durock's commitment to providing tactile switches with similar characteristics, allowing users to choose between the two based on other factors such as sound, actuation force, and overall 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 Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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, both the Durock Koala and T1 switches are described as having low-pitched and neutral profiles, making them suitable for a variety of users and environments. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used, so you can expect similar results in terms of sound quality from both switches.
When it comes to feel, the Koala switch is described as having a polished, accented, stepped, and stiff feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with a pronounced bump at specific points in the keystroke. On the other hand, the T1 switch is described as having a stepped, accented, and polished feel, delivering a medium bump and a sleek typing experience that is comfortable to type on. Both switches offer a tactile experience that is not too overwhelming or subtle, making them suitable for users who enjoy a medium level of tactility without excessive force required to actuate the keys.
Overall, both the Durock Koala and T1 switches offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the Koala switch may provide a bit more resonance in sound and potentially a slightly stiffer feel compared to the T1 switch, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with a noticeable tactile bump. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that each user is looking for.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, you should consider your preference for tactility and sound. If you prefer a switch with a pronounced bump that doesn't span the entire keystroke and provides a bit of resonance without being overly loud, the Koala is a great choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a switch with a medium bump when pressing down and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window, the T1 is the way to go. Both switches offer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, so the decision ultimately comes down to the specific feel and sound you prefer while typing.
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