Durock Koala vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Koala and Gateron Type S stand out as popular options. The Durock Koala is a tactile switch that offers a perfect balance for those who enjoy a satisfying keystroke without excessive force. With its stepped tactility and pronounced bump, the Koala provides a distinctive experience that is both polished and low-pitched. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S is a linear switch that focuses on a smooth and weighty keystroke. The Type S, with its 65g bottom-out, caters to those who prefer a more substantial feel while maintaining a neutral and subdued sound signature. Each switch has its unique characteristics that may appeal to different users based on their preferences. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Koala and the Gateron Type S, we can see that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound. This means that both switches will likely have a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the Durock Koala utilizes polycarbonate while the Gateron Type S uses nylon. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for maximizing RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, nylon in the Type S's top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a different typing experience compared to the Koala. This gives users a choice between a sharper sound with the Koala or a fuller sound with the Type S.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Koala and the Gateron Type S will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound and feel. The Koala's polycarbonate top housing offers a crisper and clearer sound profile, while the Type S's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound experience. Both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing, ensuring a similar typing experience in terms of the switch's impact and bottom-out sound. Ultimately, users will need to decide what type of sound profile they prefer in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, it is clear that the Koala is the heavier of the two switches. The Koala has an actuation force of None grams, making it unclear how much force is needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force is 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Type S has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, both of which fall within the medium-heavy range. For those who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Type S may be the better option due to its lower actuation force. However, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Koala may be preferred despite the unknown actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Durock Koala tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, it is clear that they offer the same tactile feedback and travel distance. The similarity in travel distance means that users can expect a consistent typing experience with either switch. Both switches provide a satisfying amount of travel distance, allowing for comfortable and precise typing. The only difference between the two switches would be their respective tactile and linear characteristics, as the travel distance remains the same for both the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch.
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 Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70 per 10 switches.
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 offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile that provides a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S provides a neutral and subdued sound experience, offering a dampened sound that leans towards a deeper acoustic experience. Both switches aim to cater to those who prefer a more subtle sound signature while providing a satisfying typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Koala switch is polished, accented, stepped, and slightly stiff, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with a prominent but not overwhelming amount of tactility. The Gateron Type S, on the other hand, has a description that is unknown. However, based on the overall characteristics of Gateron switches, it can be assumed that the Type S linear switch will offer a smooth key travel combined with a distinct actuation point for a precise typing feel.
In conclusion, the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Koala provides a low-pitched sound with a stepped tactility that resonates without being overly loud, the Type S offers a neutral sound with a weightier keystroke and a subdued acoustic experience. Both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience tailored to different preferences, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of quality and performance regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a polished, accented, and stepped tactile feel, then the Durock Koala is the way to go. However, if you lean towards a medium-heavy bottom out force with a neutral and subdued sound profile, then the Gateron Type S may be the better choice for you. Consider your typing preferences and sound preferences when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so choose the one that best suits your needs.
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