KTT Cream Yellow vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Cream Yellow and the Durock Mamba, both of which are linear switches. The Cream Yellow switch stands out for its unique characteristics, such as a distinctively clacky sound, a shortened bottom-out distance, and a long-pole stem that provides resonant audio feedback. Additionally, the lengthened spring contributes to a bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the Mamba switch pays tribute to Kobe Bryant and offers a gliding typing sensation and a rich and creamy auditory experience. It is categorized as neutral, mild, thocky, and polished. While these general pointers can help you get an idea of each switch's features, let's now delve deeper into their specifics to help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Durock Mamba, there are some notable similarities and differences. Starting with the top housing, the Cream Yellow utilizes polycarbonate, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Mamba's top housing is a blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE, offering a pleasant sound that is bright but not overly sharp. Both materials contribute to a unique sound experience, albeit with different characteristics.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Cream Yellow features a nylon housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Mamba utilizes a POM bottom housing, which creates a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. The different materials used in the bottom housings of these switches contribute to a variation in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys.
While there are differences between the housing materials of the Cream Yellow and the Mamba, it is important to note that both switches offer unique and enjoyable sound profiles. The Cream Yellow's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp and crisp sound, while the Mamba's polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a brighter sound. Similarly, the Cream Yellow's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Mamba's POM bottom housing creates a more muted sound. Therefore, despite the differences in materials, both switches provide a variety of sound experiences that can be tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The Cream Yellow has a lower actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Mamba, which doesn't have a specified actuation force available. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Cream Yellow requiring 58 grams and the Mamba slightly heavier at 60 grams.
The weight of the switches is an important factor to consider. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Cream Yellow would be a suitable choice as its lower actuation force allows for longer typing sessions without strain. This makes it ideal for environments such as work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push may opt for the Mamba, given its slightly higher bottom out force.
While the specifics of the actuation force for the Mamba remain unknown, it can be expected to be similar to the Cream Yellow, given that both switches fall within the "medium" range for bottom out force. So, if one prefers the feel of the Cream Yellow's actuation force, they can likely achieve similar results with the Mamba.
Considering these factors, it is clear that the Cream Yellow is lighter in terms of actuation force than the Mamba, while the Mamba possesses a marginally higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired weight of the keystrokes.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance as the switch moves from the top to the bottom. Therefore, whether you choose the Cream Yellow or the Mamba, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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 Cream Yellow switch is known for its clacky nature. This means that it produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, resulting in a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Mamba switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, which means it falls in the middle ground in terms of sound intensity. It provides a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. Additionally, the Mamba switch is also described as having a thocky sound, which translates to a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. Please note that the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Cream Yellow switch offers a uniquely bouncy typing sensation. This means that the keys have a spring-like or elastic feedback, giving them a lively feel and providing a sense of rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the Mamba switch is described as having a mild feel. It offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It falls into a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of feel, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, the Mamba switch is also described as being polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The exact feel of these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the materials used and any factory lubrication applied.
Taking into account all the available information, the Cream Yellow switch is known for its clacky sound and bouncy typing feel. If you are seeking a switch that delivers a distinctively sharp and snappy sound with a lively and spring-like feedback, the Cream Yellow would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, the Mamba switch offers a more neutral sound profile with a gliding typing sensation and a rich and creamy auditory experience. It provides a mild typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, the polished finish of the Mamba switch ensures a sleek and smooth typing experience. If you are looking for a versatile switch that offers moderate sound and feel qualities, the Mamba switch would be a good option. Overall, both switches provide unique qualities and it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience one is aiming for.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, make your decision based on the sound and feel you prefer. The Cream Yellow switch is best known for its distinctively clacky sound, providing a crisp and percussive feedback when pressed. Additionally, it offers a uniquely bouncy typing feel due to its shortened bottom-out distance and lengthened spring. On the other hand, the Mamba switch is known for its gliding typing sensation and rich and creamy auditory experience. It has a neutral sound profile, suitable for most purposes, but also offers a thocky option with a deep, satisfying sound. In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow switch is bouncy, giving you a spring-like feedback, while the Mamba switch offers a mild and polished experience with a safe middle-ground feel and reduced friction. Consider your auditory and tactile preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics, providing a satisfying typing experience. In the end, the decision lies in your personal preference and typing style.
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