TTC Flaming Pink vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Pink and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your needs, the TTC Flaming Pink and the Durock Mamba linear switches stand out for their unique characteristics and user experiences. The TTC Flaming Pink switches are celebrated for their smooth and responsive feel, paired with a satisfying bottom-out sound that delivers a high-quality typing experience suitable for both gaming and everyday tasks. With a bright yet not overly loud sound profile, these switches strike a balance between performance and noise, making them a versatile choice for users who desire a premium feel without disturbing their surroundings. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba switches pay tribute to basketball legend Kobe Bryant, offering a gliding typing sensation that feels luxurious while providing a rich, creamy auditory experience. These characteristics make the Mamba switches particularly appealing for those who appreciate a “thocky” and polished sound combined with a neutral, mild touch. While both switches excel in providing a linear feel, their distinctive sound profiles and typing experiences cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.60 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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-staged spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Pink and the Durock Mamba, the differences become evident in both the top and bottom housings. The Flaming Pink utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its clarity and sharp sound profile. This stiffer plastic enhances the resonance, resulting in a higher-pitched and crisper sound. Furthermore, its translucency makes it particularly suited for RGB lighting applications, allowing for vibrant illumination through the switch. In contrast, the Mamba features a top housing made from a unique blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE, which yields a brighter yet less piercing sound. While both materials contribute to the overall auditory experience, the Flaming Pink tends to produce a sharper sound, whereas the Mamba offers a brighter, more pleasant tone without the same intensity.
Examining the bottom housings reveals another layer of material differentiation between these switches. The Flaming Pink's nylon bottom housing is utilized to create a deeper, fuller sound profile that absorbs noise, providing a more muted auditory experience. This soft plastic is well-known for its sound absorption properties, which contribute to the overall sense of cushioning when typing. In contrast, the Durock Mamba employs a POM bottom housing, which also offers a deep sound profile but with a relatively more muted quality. While both switches prioritize a richer sound experience, the nylon in the Flaming Pink leans towards a rounder auditory output, while the POM in the Mamba adds a distinct texture that shifts the focus slightly toward a unique, balanced sound.
Ultimately, the qualities of each housing material affect the overall switch performance in nuanced ways, particularly concerning how they contribute to the sound and feel of the switch when engaged. In the Flaming Pink, the top housing's stiffer polycarbonate creates crispness during release, while the softer nylon bot provides depth during actuation. On the other hand, the Mamba's brighter sounding top housing pairs interestingly with its muted bottom, yielding a sound profile that is different yet harmonious. By understanding the roles played by each material in sound production, users can expect unique results from both switches, tailored to their auditory preferences.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that appeal to different typing preferences. The Flaming Pink has a light actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a gentler touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Mamba's bottom out force is heavier at 60 grams, though its actuation force is unspecified, making it harder to compare directly in terms of trigger pressure. Given that we only know the Mamba's heavier bottom out force, it suggests that it may provide a more substantial feel when bottoming out, appealing to those who enjoy a firmer typing experience. Overall, those seeking a lighter touch should opt for the TTC Flaming Pink, while users who appreciate a stronger push feel may find the Durock Mamba more satisfactory, particularly with its heavier bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, we find that both options fall within the trend of shorter switch travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, particularly among gamers seeking quicker response times. The TTC Flaming Pink features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Mamba has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Consequently, if you're looking for a switch that offers a snappier press, the Durock Mamba would be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance. However, for those who appreciate a bit more depth in their keystrokes, the Flaming Pink may be more suitable, offering a travel distance that feels more substantial. Overall, the differences between the two switches are minimal, but they cater to varying preferences in typing and gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Pink has an MSRP of $4.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Pink for $4.00.
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 TTC Flaming Pink linear switch offers a bright yet not overly loud sound profile, making it versatile for both gaming and typing. Its satisfying bottom-out sound enhances the overall experience without becoming distracting, suitable for use in various environments. In contrast, the Durock Mamba switch has a rich and creamy auditory experience that leans towards a deeper "thocky" quality, producing a soft yet satisfying sound upon actuation. While both switches provide a pleasing auditory experience, the Flaming Pink is more focused on a balanced profile, whereas the Mamba leans towards a deeper, more resonant sound.
In terms of feel, the Flaming Pink switch is known for its smooth and responsive action. This tactile refinement makes it excellent for long typing sessions or intense gaming, as users can expect a consistent performance throughout. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba switch provides a mild typing experience that strikes a comfortable balance. The polished nature of the Mamba enhances its smoothness, enabling effortless key travel and a refined touch. While both switches cater to a gentle and smooth typing experience, the Flaming Pink excels in responsiveness, while the Mamba is favored for its approachable curvature and luxurious feel.
In conclusion, both the TTC Flaming Pink and Durock Mamba linear switches offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences. The Flaming Pink shines with its satisfying sound and responsive feel, suitable for users seeking a high-performance typing experience. Conversely, the Mamba stands out for its deep auditory character and polished, gentle touch, making it great for a smooth and refined experience. While subjective qualities vary between the two, users seeking either can expect pleasant outcomes tailored to their personal taste and typing needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, it's essential to consider your personal preferences and intended use. If you prefer a lighter switch that offers a smooth, responsive feel and is suitable for both gaming and everyday typing, the Flaming Pink would be an excellent choice. Its 50-gram bottom-out force provides an effortless keystroke experience, complemented by a satisfying sound profile that isn’t overly loud—perfect for those who might be using the keyboard in shared spaces. On the other hand, if you favor a more robust typing experience with a bit more resistance, the Durock Mamba, featuring a 60-gram bottom-out force, may suit you better. Its gliding typing sensation and rich, thocky auditory feedback make it an inviting option for users who enjoy that deeper sound and feel in their keystrokes. Ultimately, it boils down to whether you prioritize a light and quick response or a more pronounced, heavier feel in your typing experience.
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