Gateron CM vs. Durock Mamba

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CM and the Durock Mamba, both of which are linear switches. The Gateron CM switch stands out with its unique full nylon housing, showcasing a departure from traditional polycarbonate housings. This switch not only delivers a richer and deeper sound signature but also offers an impeccably smooth typing experience, thanks to its factory lube job. With its lengthened, dual-staged spring, the CM switch provides a bouncy typing sensation. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba pays homage to the legendary Kobe Bryant, boasting a gliding typing sensation and a rich and creamy auditory experience. With its neutral profile, mild tactile feedback, and polished performance, the Mamba switch offers a comfortable typing experience. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide which switch would be the best fit for your specific needs.

By the numbers

Gateron CM Linear

Durock Mamba Linear

$4.80

$4.25 per 10

$6.50

$5.17 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Durock Mamba switches offer distinct characteristics that impact the sound profile and feel of typing. Both switches utilize nylon for the top housing, but there are notable differences. The CM's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Mamba's top housing blends polymer nylon and UHMWPE, resulting in a sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans towards the brighter side. While both switches use nylon for the top housing, the CM offers a duller and rounder sound, while the Mamba provides a more pleasant and slightly brighter tone.

Moving to the bottom housing, the Gateron CM features nylon material which contributes to a deep and full sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a dull and round sound. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba's bottom housing is made of POM, resulting in an incredibly pleasing and unique sound. The sound profile of the Mamba is on the deeper side and relatively more muted compared to the CM. The use of POM in the Mamba's bottom housing creates a distinct sound that deviates from the CM's nylon bottom housing.

When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings on typing experience, the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom parts of the switch. When pressing down on either the Gateron CM or the Durock Mamba, the bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. The unique sound profile of the Mamba's POM bottom housing results in a deeper and relatively more muted experience. Conversely, the top housing of the switch plays a more prominent role in the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the top materials of both switches contribute to the unique sound profile experienced when releasing keys, regardless of their differences in material.

In summary, the Gateron CM and Durock Mamba switches showcase different housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The CM's nylon top and bottom housing result in a deeper and fuller sound, while the Mamba's blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE offers a slightly brighter tone. Similarly, the CM's nylon bottom housing creates a dull and round sound, while the Mamba's POM bottom housing produces a unique and relatively more muted experience. Nonetheless, both switches prioritize the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences to consider. In terms of weight, the CM is the heavier option, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, falling in the medium-heavy range. On the other hand, the Mamba's actuation force is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mamba may be a more suitable choice, as its bottom out force is slightly lower than that of the CM. This lighter weight can be beneficial for those who type for long periods or engage in extended gaming sessions. However, for users who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the CM with its heavier forces may be the preferred option.

Unfortunately, due to the unknown actuation force of the Mamba, a direct comparison in this aspect is not possible. However, both switches are linear and provide a smooth and consistent keystroke, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall feel and responsiveness. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of weight and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Mamba linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become popular for their faster response times, particularly among gamers. If you prioritize a more responsive typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Durock Mamba may be the preferable option for you. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. In that case, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial key press, the Gateron CM with its slightly longer travel distance would be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision depends on personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron CM linear switch is best known for its unique full nylon housing, which contributes to its distinctive sound signature. The CM switches are described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched. This means that they produce a deeper, richer sound profile characterized by a lower frequency range, similar to the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The sound of these switches is further enhanced by the impeccable factory lube job, ensuring a smooth and satisfying auditory experience. When it comes to feel, the CM switches are often described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless. These descriptors indicate that the CM switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with reduced friction and effortless key travel. The lengthened, dual-staged spring in the CM switches also contributes to a bouncy typing experience, adding to the overall feel of the switches.

On the other hand, the Durock Mamba linear switch is a tribute to Kobe Bryant and is known for providing a gliding typing sensation and a rich and creamy auditory experience. In terms of sound, the Mamba switches are described as neutral and thocky. A neutral switch means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for most purposes. When it comes to feel, the Mamba switches are described as mild and polished. A mild switch offers a gentle typing experience, making it approachable to most users. Similar to the CM switches, the Mamba switches also boast a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Based on the available information, the Gateron CM linear switches and Durock Mamba linear switches have some similarities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer a thocky sound profile, which produces a deep and satisfying sound. Additionally, both switches have a polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined typing experiences with reduced friction. However, the CM switches stand out with their bassy and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deeper and richer auditory experience. The CM switches also have additional descriptors such as buttery and frictionless, indicating an effortlessly smooth typing journey. On the other hand, the Mamba switches provide a neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes, and a milder typing experience. In conclusion, while the CM and Mamba switches share some similarities, they offer distinct subjective qualities that make them unique choices for keyboard enthusiasts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you prioritize a bouncy typing experience and a deeper sound profile, the Gateron CM linear switch would be the better choice for you. With its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, these switches offer an effortlessly smooth typing journey and a rich, bassy, and thocky auditory experience. The CM's lengthened, dual-staged spring also contributes to the bouncy typing sensation you can expect from these switches. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral typing experience with a moderate sound profile, the Durock Mamba linear switch is the way to go. These switches provide a gliding typing sensation and a creamy, thocky sound. The Mamba's mild characteristics and polished finish offer a gentle and approachable typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron CM and Durock Mamba linear switches will depend on your preference for typing experience and sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CM Linear

$4.80

$4.25 per 10

Learn more

Durock Mamba Linear

$6.50

$5.17 per 10

Learn more