Durock Koala vs. Gazzew LT
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Gazzew LT switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Koala and Gazzew LT offer unique qualities worth considering. The Durock Koala is a tactile switch known for its middle-ground tactility, providing a pronounced bump without being too overwhelming. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT is a linear switch with a distinctive deep, resonant "thockiness" and a smooth typing experience. While the Koala is categorized as polished, low-pitched, and stiff, the LT is known for being bassy, thocky, and low-pitched. Both switches have their own appeal and advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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 Korean spring
Housing materials
The Durock Koala and the Gazzew LT both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Koala features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile, especially ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the LT's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," creates a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, they cater to different preferences in sound characteristics.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Koala utilizes nylon, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer properties help absorb more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the LT's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing also delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Both bottom housing materials offer similar sound characteristics, making them suitable choices for users who prefer a softer and more muffled sound profile.
When comparing the top and bottom housings of the Durock Koala and the Gazzew LT, it's clear that each material brings its own unique qualities to the switches. The split between the top and bottom housing allows for a varied sound experience when typing or gaming. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. Overall, the housing materials of both switches cater to different sound preferences, providing users with options to achieve their desired typing experience.
Weight
The Durock Koala tactile switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch both have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Koala being slightly heavier at 67 grams compared to the LT's 65 grams. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, which can affect the typing experience in terms of responsiveness and feedback. The Koala switch may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, while the LT switch might offer a slightly lighter touch. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier force for a more pronounced push feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Koala tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer compared to the Gazzew LT linear switch with a travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Koala offers a more traditional travel distance, while the LT provides a shallower experience. Gamers may prefer the LT for its faster response times due to the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Koala. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance 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 Gazzew LT 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Koala is known for its low-pitched and neutral tones, providing a bass-heavy and mellow sound profile that is suitable for various applications. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT offers a deep, rich, and satisfying thocky sound with bassy undertones, creating a symphony of thockiness with each keystroke. Both switches provide a unique auditory experience, but the Koala leans towards a more subdued sound profile, while the LT delivers a more pronounced and resonant typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Durock Koala stands out with its polished and accented tactile feedback, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a prominent yet not overwhelming tactility. The stepped design of the Koala provides a unique keystroke feel with subtle stages of bump feedback. On the other hand, information on the specific feel qualities of the Gazzew LT linear switch is currently unavailable. However, with the LT being described as offering a seamless glide with every keystroke, it can be assumed that the switch provides a smooth and consistent linear feel for typing.
In conclusion, the Durock Koala and Gazzew LT switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Koala provides a balanced tactile experience with a subdued sound profile, while the LT delivers a resonant and thocky auditory feedback with a smooth linear feel. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Koala focusing on tactile feedback and the LT emphasizing auditory satisfaction. Depending on your typing style and preference for sound and feel, choosing between the Durock Koala and Gazzew LT switches will ultimately depend on your personal preference for tactile or linear switches and sound profiles.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Koala tactile switch or the Gazzew LT linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a pronounced bump that doesn't span the entire keystroke, the Koala might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a smooth glide with a deep, resonant thocky sound and a slightly lower bottom out force, the LT could be more suited to your typing style. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so trust your instincts and choose the switch that aligns with your typing preferences for the best mechanical keyboard experience.
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