Durock Koala vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Durock Koala and the Gazzew U4 are both popular choices for those in search of tactile mechanical keyboard switches. The Koalas are a great option for users who desire a tactile bump in their keystrokes but prefer it to be more subtle and not overly loud. On the other hand, the U4s offer a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with a plush bottom-out sensation, providing a satisfying typing experience that is whisper quiet. Both switches have their own unique qualities and appeal to different 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Koala and the Gazzew U4 offer a contrast in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Koala utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharp and crisp sound profile due to its stiffness. In comparison, the U4 features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While both materials offer distinct sound characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Koala is ideal for those looking for a higher-pitched sound with clarity, while the Gazzew blend top housing of the U4 caters to those seeking a deeper and more resonant sound.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Koala and the proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4 share similarities in their softness, resulting in fuller and deeper sound profiles. Both materials absorb more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound that is favored by many keyboard enthusiasts. The nylon bottom housing of the Koala is a classic choice known for providing a deep and full sound experience, while the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4 offers a similar rich and deep sound due to its softness. Despite their differences in composition for the top housing, both switches ultimately deliver a satisfying typing experience with their bottom housing materials.
In conclusion, the choice between the Durock Koala and the Gazzew U4 ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The Koala's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and clearer sound, while the U4's Gazzew blend top housing offers a richer and deeper sound experience. Both switches share a similarity in their bottom housing materials, providing a full and deep sound that is appealing to many users. Whether you prefer a higher-pitched sound with clarity or a deeper and more resonant sound, both switches offer top-quality housing materials that contribute to a premium typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is clear that there are significant differences between the two. The Koala has an actuation force of None grams, while the U4 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Koala requires 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, whereas the U4 requires 62 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch. The Koala is heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the U4, making it more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the U4 may be more appealing to those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Koala tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Koala has a longer travel distance compared to the U4. The Koala's 4 mm travel distance provides a more substantial keypress feel, suitable for those who prefer a deeper actuation. On the other hand, the U4's 3.6 mm travel distance offers a slightly shorter keypress, which may appeal to users looking for a quicker response time. Both switches are within a similar range, so users can expect comparable results in terms of overall feel and performance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 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, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 provides a muted, low-pitched sound that is whisper quiet, ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them would depend on personal preference, as well as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Koala is described as polished, accented, stepped, and stiff, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a pronounced but not overwhelming tactile bump. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 is characterized by a sharp tactile bump that provides intense feedback with each keystroke. While both switches offer tactile feedback, the Koala's feel is more versatile with a broader range of tactile sensations, while the U4's sharp tactility appeals to those who prefer a more intense tactile experience.
In conclusion, the Durock Koala and Gazzew U4 tactile switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Koala offers a versatile sound profile and a polished, stepped feel with a pronounced but not overpowering tactile bump, while the U4 provides a quieter sound with a sharp, intense tactile bump. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, both switches are high-quality options that will likely deliver satisfying results for users seeking a tactile typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a pronounced but not overly aggressive bump, the Durock Koala switches are a great choice. They offer a polished and accented feel, with a low-pitched sound profile that is neutral and suitable for a variety of environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and a sharper tactile bump, the Gazzew U4 switches may be more to your liking. They provide a sharp and exhilarating typing experience with a muted, low-pitched sound profile that is whisper quiet. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of the feel and sound you prefer in your mechanical keyboard.
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