HMX Deep Navy vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Deep Navy and the Durock Mamba each offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Deep Navy switches, renowned for their full nylon construction, provide a distinctive sharp sound profile that immerses users in a rich auditory experience, while the silky smoothness of the Ly stem ensures a seamless keystroke. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba switches are a tribute to Kobe Bryant, offering a gliding typing sensation that many find enjoyable. With a balanced auditory experience that is described as rich and creamy, the Mamba switches are versatile and categorized as neutral and mildly thocky, appealing to users who appreciate both feedback and comfort in their typing. While both switches are linear by design, the choice ultimately hinges on whether you prefer the pronounced auditory feedback of the Deep Navy or the smooth, refined experience of the Mamba. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the HMX Deep Navy and the Durock Mamba showcase significant differences in composition and sound profile, each contributing uniquely to the typing experience. The Deep Navy utilizes a traditional nylon for both the top and bottom housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and rounder sound. This softer plastic absorbs sound well, reducing sharpness and creating a fuller auditory experience. This consistency in material helps maintain harmonious acoustics throughout both the actuation and release phases of keystrokes, providing a balanced auditory feedback that users often find satisfying.
In contrast, the Durock Mamba incorporates a unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its top housing, resulting in a brighter yet pleasant sound profile. This variance in top housing contributes to a different auditory characteristic when keys are released, offering a sound that, while not overwhelmingly sharp, provides a distinct clarity compared to the softer nylon found in the Deep Navy. For the bottom housing of the Mamba, POM is utilized, which contributes a deeper sound profile that is more muted than nylon. This contrasts with the nylon bottom housing of the Deep Navy, emphasizing the unique matching of materials that impacts the sound dynamics between the two switches.
When taking into account the material differences, one can expect that both the Deep Navy and the Durock Mamba will create distinct auditory experiences and typing feels. While the Mamba features a variety of materials that offer a brighter top-end sound and a muted bottom profile, the Deep Navy provides a more consistent sound across both housing types. However, if users are looking for comparable results, they can choose switches with similar characteristics within a given housing type—choosing nylon variants in both cases can yield a deeper auditory experience, while using the Mamba’s unique materials can still achieve nuanced sound profiles, albeit with differing tonal qualities. This underscores the impact that housing materials can have on a switch's overall performance and sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Deep Navy boasts a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer easier keystrokes and longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Mamba's actuation force is unknown, while it features a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This suggests that while the Mamba may provide a more substantial typing experience, its exact actuation resistance remains unspecified, making it harder to directly compare its initial keystroke feel against the Deep Navy's clearer specifications. Consequently, if the actuation force of the Mamba turns out to be heavier than the Deep Navy’s 40 grams, it would enhance the overall typing resistance and tactile feedback users experience. Thus, the Deep Navy is the lighter option, catering to those seeking a more effortless typing experience, whereas the Mamba leans towards users who appreciate a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, the Deep Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Mamba offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This indicates that the Deep Navy provides a bit more resistance and depth, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba's shorter distance caters to those who enjoy quicker actuation and faster response times, making it more suitable for gamers seeking swift actions. Ultimately, if you're looking for a more pronounced depth, the Deep Navy would be the better choice, while the Mamba is ideal for users prioritizing responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Deep Navy linear switch is characterized by a rich and sharp acoustic profile, enhanced by its full nylon construction, which contributes to an engaging auditory experience during use. This construction not only favors clarity but also manages to deliver a distinctive sound signature with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba linear switch provides a more neutral sound profile, combined with a thocky quality that generates a satisfying deep thud when pressed. This contrast in sound makes the Mamba switches more versatile, appealing to users who prefer a subtle auditory feedback while typing or gaming.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Deep Navy offers a silky smoothness attributed to its Ly stem, providing a seamless typing experience. While specific details about its feel are not provided, the implication is that it promotes a fluid motion with each keystroke. In comparison, the Mamba switches present a mild and polished typing sensation. This indicates that they deliver a gentle touch, with reduced friction due to either the materials used or potential factory lubrication, resulting in a refined experience that is accessible to a broad range of users without any harsh feedback.
Overall, both the HMX Deep Navy and Durock Mamba linear switches offer distinct qualities that cater to various preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Deep Navy excels in delivering a rich sound and a smooth feel, while the Mamba excels in creating a neutral yet thocky auditory experience with a polished touch. Those who are looking for an engaging typing experience will find satisfaction in either switch, as they can expect similar results in sound and feel despite their individual characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding tactile feedback, sound profile, and intended use. If you favor a lighter actuation force and desire a rich auditory experience that enhances your typing enjoyment, the Deep Navy is an excellent choice. Its full nylon construction and silky smooth keystrokes cater to those who appreciate a more pronounced sound profile that adds character to your typing. Conversely, if you prefer a more robust typing experience with a medium actuation force that strikes a balance between comfort and responsiveness, you might find the Durock Mamba to be more aligned with your needs. The Mamba's neutral yet thocky sound profile coupled with a polished feel means it can fit comfortably in varied environments, whether you’re working from home or in a busy office. In essence, your choice should reflect not just the type of feedback you enjoy, but also the auditory and tactile characteristics that fulfill your typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
