Durock Black Lotus vs. Durock Mamba

Overview

The Durock Black Lotus and the Durock Mamba are two highly acclaimed mechanical keyboard switches, each offering their own unique features and benefits. The Black Lotus is a linear switch that is renowned for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision. Typing on these switches is a truly pleasurable experience, thanks to their reduced housing and stem wobble. With an actuation weight of 55g, the Black Lotus strikes a perfect balance between being substantial and not too hefty. Additionally, the fully removable unique light column provides in-switch lighting, adding a touch of customization to your keyboard. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba, also a linear switch, is a tribute to Kobe Bryant and offers a gliding typing sensation with a rich and creamy auditory experience. It falls under the category of 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own strengths, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision based on your preferences and typing style.

By the numbers

Durock Black Lotus Linear

Durock Mamba Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

$6.50

$5.17 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Durock Black Lotus and Durock Mamba differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct characteristics for each switch. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE blend top housing, which provides a unique and premium feel. This material contributes to a sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans on the brighter side, offering a pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, the Mamba utilizes a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, creating an incredibly unique sound profile that is also pleasing. The sound produced by the Mamba switch is on the deeper side and is relatively more muted compared to the Black Lotus.

In terms of the bottom housing, the Black Lotus employs a nylon material, which is a classic choice for switch housing. Typing on switches with nylon housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the flip side, the Mamba utilizes a POM bottom housing, which contributes to an incredibly pleasing and unique sound. The sound produced by the Mamba switch with the POM bottom housing is deeper and relatively more muted, offering a distinct typing experience.

Although the top and bottom housings differ between the Black Lotus and Mamba, the qualities brought by each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When you press down on the switch, you will feel the impact and qualities of the bottom housing, which affects the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has more influence on the sound when you release a key. Despite these variations, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles resulting from their respective housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, there are both similarities and differences to consider. In terms of weight, the Black Lotus is the heavier option with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, classified as medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Mamba's actuation force is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which falls into the medium category.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mamba may be more suitable as its actuation force is potentially lighter or equal to that of the Black Lotus. The lighter weight allows for longer typing periods and can be advantageous for work or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the Black Lotus offers a stronger push feel with its higher actuation and bottom out forces, providing a more substantial typing experience.

It's important to note that without knowing the specific actuation force of the Mamba, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, if the actuation force is similar to the Black Lotus or even lighter, users can expect similar results in terms of keystroke triggering. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference, whether one prefers a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force for their typing or gaming needs.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, we can see that they have different distances. The Black Lotus has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Mamba has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Black Lotus falls into the more traditional range with its 4 mm distance, while the Mamba is on the shorter side with its 3.5 mm distance. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Mamba a popular choice. However, those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel might find the 4 mm travel distance of the Black Lotus more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and the desired level of responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Durock Black Lotus switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, so its sound qualities are unknown. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba switch is described as having a "neutral" sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes. Additionally, it is described as having a "thocky" sound, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Durock Black Lotus switch offers a range of descriptors. It is described as "silky," meaning it provides an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. It is also described as "buttery," indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Additionally, it is labeled as "mild," offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Lastly, it is described as "polished," meaning it has a smooth and refined finish resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Similarly, the Durock Mamba switch shares some feel descriptors with the Black Lotus switch. It is also described as "mild," providing a gentle typing experience that is suitable for most users. Additionally, it is described as "polished," indicating a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, based on the available information, the Durock Black Lotus and the Durock Mamba switches offer different sound profiles, with the Black Lotus sound qualities being unknown. However, they share similar feel characteristics such as being "mild" and "polished." This means that if you are seeking a linear switch with a smooth and refined feel, both switches are likely to provide similar results. Ultimately, the choice between the Black Lotus and Mamba switches may come down to personal preference in terms of their sound profiles and any other specific features they may offer.

Conclusion

In closing, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy in-switch lighting, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches offer a silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, with reduced wobble for maximum typing pleasure. The 55g actuation weight provides a substantial typing experience without being too hefty. On the other hand, if you appreciate a tribute to Kobe Bryant and value a gliding typing sensation with a rich and creamy auditory experience, the Durock Mamba linear switch is the perfect fit. With its medium bottom out force and mild feel, these switches offer a safe and approachable typing experience for most users. Both switches are polished, ensuring a sleek and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Durock Black Lotus and Durock Mamba switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Black Lotus Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more

Durock Mamba Linear

$6.50

$5.17 per 10

Learn more