Bsun Cliff vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between tactile and linear can significantly influence your typing experience. The Bsun Cliff, a tactile switch, is renowned for its medium tactility and crisp sound signature, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate tactile feedback while typing—ideal for both typists and gamers seeking enhanced precision. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba switches, which pay homage to the legendary Kobe Bryant, provide a smooth gliding sensation with a rich and creamy auditory experience, making them perfect for those who prefer a quieter, uninterrupted typing experience without the tactile bump. Each switch offers unique characteristics that cater to different preferences: the Cliff excels in delivering feedback, while the Mamba targets a fluid typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Cliff and the Durock Mamba, we can see a distinct contrast in the types of materials used for the top housings. The Cliff utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and ability to produce a sharper and crisper sound profile. This material is particularly suitable for applications where clarity is paramount, as it enhances the overall resonance of the switch. Its translucency allows for optimal RGB lighting effects, making it a functional choice for aesthetic purposes as well. On the other hand, the Mamba features a unique blend of polymer nylon and ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). While not as sharply pitched as polycarbonate, this blend offers a brighter sound profile that is described as pleasant but less piercing, appealing to users who prefer a softer auditory experience.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both switches take a different approach, which contributes to their respective sound profiles. The Bsun Cliff employs a nylon bottom housing, a classic choice that provides a deeper and fuller sound experience due to its softer texture. This characteristic helps in absorbing sound, resulting in a more muted bottom-out feel when the key is pressed. Conversely, the Durock Mamba uses a polyoxymethylene (POM) bottom housing that also enhances the sound experience, albeit in a different manner. POM offers a deeper yet relatively more muted sound, creating a unique audio profile that stands apart from nylon. In essence, while both switches use softer materials for their bottom housings, the characteristics of POM create a distinct sound experience compared to nylon.
Ultimately, the combined effects of the top and bottom housing materials lead to nuanced differences in the overall performance and auditory experience of the Bsun Cliff and Durock Mamba switches. The Cliff's polycarbonate top housing delivers a bright and resonant sound when releasing a key, while the nylon bottom muffles the impact, providing a rounded feel. In contrast, the Mamba's top housing creates a brighter sound profile, and the POM bottom housing contributes a muted depth, altering how the switch feels at bottom-out. Despite these variations, both switching mechanisms will deliver satisfying sound experiences based on their respective material compositions, showcasing the importance of material choice in the crafted sound profiles of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, significant differences become evident. The Cliff switch features a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for extended gaming or work sessions. In contrast, the Mamba switch has a medium bottom out force of 60 grams; however, its actuation force is unknown, which leaves uncertainty regarding how light or heavy it feels during key presses. Consequently, the Cliff is the lighter option overall, while the Mamba offers a heavier bottom out force, appealing to those who favor a more substantial feel when bottoming out. If the Mamba’s actuation force were to be provided and turned out to be higher than the Cliff's, users would experience a more resistant typing experience, balancing its heavier bottoming out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, there is a slight difference between the two. The Cliff features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Mamba has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Although the difference is minimal, it may impact the tactile experience for users. Gamers might prefer the Mamba's shorter travel distance for quicker response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel may gravitate toward the Cliff's longer distance, as it provides a bit more depth with each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness versus tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
The Durock Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
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 Bsun Cliff tactile switch produces a crisp, clear auditory signature that resonates well with those who appreciate tactile feedback. Tactile switches like the Cliff usually create a distinct click at the point of actuation, enhancing the typing experience with noticeable auditory cues. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba linear switch is characterized by its rich and creamy sound profile, described as thocky. This results in a deeper, more satisfying sound akin to a soft thud when keys are pressed, making it an appealing choice for users seeking a more subdued auditory experience that still offers clear feedback. Both switches deliver unique acoustic profiles that are enjoyable, but they cater to different preferences: one crisp and clear versus the other deep and thocky.
In terms of feel, the Cliff tactile switch is known for its medium tactility, striking a balance that provides users with an engaging typing sensation without being overly pronounced. The tactile bump serves as a reminder of key actuation without overwhelming the fingers, making it suitable for both casual typists and those who type extensively. In contrast, the Durock Mamba linear switch offers a mild typing experience that is approachable to a wide range of users. Its polished nature means users can expect smooth and refined key travel, which minimizes friction for a seamless feel. While the Cliff's tactility adds a degree of engagement to your typing, the Mamba delivers a smooth glide, making it a different tactile experience altogether.
In conclusion, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and Durock Mamba linear switch provide distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to various user preferences. The Cliff engages with a crisp sound and medium tactile feedback, whereas the Mamba offers a deeper, thocky sound with a smooth typing experience. Depending on what aspects are most important to you—whether it's the tactile feedback or the sound profile—you can choose the switch that best fits your typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities, making your choice a matter of personal preference.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the experience you're seeking. If you enjoy a lighter actuation force and prefer tactile feedback with a crisp sound profile, the Bsun Cliff would likely be your go-to option. It's particularly suited for those who appreciate a responsive typing experience, making it an excellent choice for casual typing and gaming where quick and accurate keystrokes are essential. On the other hand, if you favor a smoother, more gliding sensation with a heavier keypress, the Durock Mamba is ideal for you. With its polished feel and rich auditory feedback, it offers a more refined experience that is great for long typing sessions or for those who enjoy a consistently pleasant sound when typing. Overall, your decision should reflect how you want your keyboard to feel and sound during use, so pick the switch that aligns best with your personal comfort and intended use.
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