Durock Koala vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, preferences often boil down to tactile feedback versus smoothness, making the Durock Koala and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) an interesting comparison. The Durock Koala stands out as a tactile switch, offering a pronounced yet subtle bump that satisfies users who enjoy keystrokes that feel substantial without being excessively loud. This unique stepped tactility coupled with a polished feel makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), categorized as a linear switch, promises a super smooth typing experience with Ly stems, allowing for uninterrupted keystrokes. While the Tomcat’s resonant sound profile offers a satisfying auditory feedback, it is devoid of tactile bumps, catering to users who favor a quieter and more fluid typing experience. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the tactile satisfaction of the Durock Koala or the smooth gliding of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), both switches present compelling reasons to choose them. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing needs.

By the numbers

Durock Koala Tactile

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$5.50

$4.21 per 10

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Durock Koala and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) exhibit striking similarities in terms of their construction and the sound profiles they produce. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is noted for its ability to generate a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is primarily because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer material compared to other plastics, which promotes clarity and resonance in sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances its aesthetic appeal, making it particularly advantageous for setups utilizing RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant light diffusion and effects. Consequently, users can expect a similar auditory experience regarding the top-end sounds when depressing and releasing the switches, regardless of the brand.

In contrast, the bottom housing materials do showcase a notable division in character between the two switches. Both the Durock Koala and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) incorporate nylon for their bottom housings, acknowledged as a classic switch housing material known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer properties absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience. This particular sound signature, along with the tactile feel that users experience while typing, is significantly influenced by the bottom housing. Therefore, while both switches utilize similar materials for their top housing, the nylon bottom housing contributes a uniquely rich sound dimension that enhances the overall typing experience.

When examining the combined effects of these housing materials, it becomes evident that although the Koala and Tomcat (Heavy) employ identical materials for both top and bottom, the interplay of these components provides a hybrid auditory experience. The crisper sound from the polycarbonate tops juxtaposed with the deeper notes from the nylon bottoms creates a balanced acoustic profile that marries clarity with warmth. Thus, even though each switch may possess different brand identities, their shared material foundations lead to comparably enriched sound experiences that cater to the preferences of diverse users. Whether opting for the Durock Koala or the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), enthusiasts can anticipate high-quality auditory performance achieving remarkable results.

Weight

When comparing the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, we find distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Koala switch has an unknown actuation force but features a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) switch requires a 55-gram actuation force and has a bottom out force of 64 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy range. Thus, the Tomcat (Heavy) is the lighter option overall due to its lower actuation force. While the bottom out forces are relatively close, those who prefer a lighter feel may gravitate toward the Tomcat, while others seeking a more substantial typing experience might find the Koala's heavier bottom out force more satisfying. Both switches offer distinct tactile experiences, appealing to different typing preferences despite their similarities in bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The Durock Koala tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Koala switch offers a more substantial depth, which can be more satisfying for those who prefer a heftier keystroke feel. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) switch, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to users who favor a quicker response time, as shorter travel distances are increasingly popular among gamers seeking speed in their actions. Therefore, if you prioritize a more pronounced tactile experience, the Durock Koala would be the better choice, while the Bsun Tomcat is more suitable for users looking for immediate feedback with less key press depth. Overall, the Koala offers the longer travel distance at 4 mm, compared to the Tomcat's 3.6 mm.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Durock Koala switch offers a pleasant low-pitched resonance, characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow tone that makes it suitable for various environments, from a quiet home office to a bustling workplace. Its neutral sound profile ensures that it strikes a balance, appealing to both beginners and seasoned typists alike. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch also exhibits a resonant sound profile; however, specific details about its pitch or tonality are not provided, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons. Overall, both switches feature a sound that leans towards resonance but may differ in clarity and volume based on individual keycap and board choices.

In terms of feel, the Koala switch excels with its polished design and stepped tactility, delivering a smooth typing experience that avoids the harshness some users might associate with other tactile switches. Its accented, medium tactile profile ensures that users enjoy a perceptible bump without overwhelming sensation, making it both satisfying and accessible. The Koala also has a stiffer actuation, requiring more force to activate each keystroke, which can enhance typing precision for some users. Information regarding the feel of the Tomcat (Heavy) switch is unknown, leaving potential users to speculate on its tactile characteristics and actuation force.

In conclusion, both the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch offer distinct advantages in sound and feel but differ in available details. The Koala's approachable audio and tactile qualities make it a strong choice for those seeking balance, while the Tomcat's sound characteristics remain a mystery yet may attract users favoring a smooth keystroke. Ultimately, personal preference and specific use cases will guide newcomers in their choice; if sound is crucial, experimenting with both in practical settings is advisable.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you appreciate a pronounced tactile feedback without overwhelming resistance, the Koala would likely suit you well. Its stepped tactility offers a pleasant bump, making it ideal for both typing and gaming, while the refined, polished feel and low-pitched sound profile ensure a smooth, engaging experience without being excessively loud. On the other hand, if you're seeking an exceptionally smooth keypress and don't require the tactile feedback of a clicky switch, the Tomcat (Heavy) would be more aligned with your needs. Its smooth linear action, combined with a resonant sound profile, makes it perfect for those who enjoy a fluid typing experience and prefer a cleaner, more modern feel under their fingers. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal typing style: opt for the Koala for a balanced tactile sensation or choose the Tomcat (Heavy) for an ultra-smooth, linear journey.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Koala Tactile

$5.50

$4.21 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more