TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices are the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch. The TTC Gold Brown Pro is perfect for those who prefer a subtle and nuanced feedback while typing. Its gentle tactile bump provides a background presence that allows for complete immersion in tasks without being distracted by loud keystrokes. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba pays tribute to Kobe Bryant with its smooth gliding typing sensation and rich, creamy auditory experience. It offers a different typing experience compared to the TTC Gold Brown Pro, with a focus on linear feedback. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
Both the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Durock Mamba feature unique top and bottom housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Gold Brown Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Mamba opts for a blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its top housing, resulting in a slightly brighter sound that is not as sharp as polycarbonate. These differences in top housing materials lead to distinct sound characteristics between the two switches.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the Gold Brown Pro and the Durock Mamba also play a significant role in shaping the sound profile of the switches. The Gold Brown Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In comparison, the Mamba utilizes a POM bottom housing, resulting in a more muted and deeper sound profile. These differences in bottom housing materials contribute to the overall feel and sound of each switch when pressed, offering users a unique typing experience depending on their preferences.
While the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Durock Mamba have different housing materials for their top and bottom components, the qualities of each material work together to create a balanced sound profile for the switches. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both switches offer users a range of sound profiles to choose from, catering to individual preferences for typing experiences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, it is clear that the Gold Brown Pro is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams while the Mamba has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. The actuation force for the Mamba is unknown. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the Gold Brown Pro providing a lighter touch for effortless typing over extended periods, ideal for work or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Mamba offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the preference for a lighter or heavier switch will depend on individual typing preferences and comfort levels.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Durock Mamba linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Mamba has the shorter travel distance, making it more appealing to those who prefer a quicker response time. However, the Gold Brown Pro offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a bit more depth in their presses. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances and would likely provide similar results in terms of overall feel and performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference for the specific travel distance that feels best for the individual user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 Gold Brown Pro switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched profile, offering a deep and satisfying sound when pressed, perfect for those who enjoy a subtle auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba switch also falls into the neutral category with a thocky sound profile, providing a smooth and rich auditory experience. Both switches offer a moderate sound profile suitable for various preferences and environments, ensuring a pleasant typing experience regardless of the choice.
In terms of feel, the Gold Brown Pro switch is praised for its polished, silky, and subtle characteristics, providing a refined and smooth typing experience with a gentle resistance. The mild and polished nature of the Durock Mamba switch offers a similarly smooth and gentle typing experience, ensuring minimal friction and a comfortable feel when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches provide a middle-ground typing feel, making them approachable and enjoyable for a wide range of users.
Overall, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch offer distinct yet comparable qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold Brown Pro excels in providing a subtle tactile experience with a subdued sound profile, the Durock Mamba offers a gliding typing sensation with a rich and creamy auditory feedback. Whether you prefer a gentle tactile bump or a smooth linear feel, both switches cater to different preferences while ensuring a pleasant and immersive typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for tactile feedback and sound characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who appreciates a subtle tactile feedback and a quiet typing experience, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. This switch allows you to immerse yourself in your typing tasks without being distracted by loud keystrokes, making it perfect for those who value a delicate touch. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and gliding typing sensation with a rich sound profile, the Durock Mamba linear switch would be more suitable for you. With its medium bottom out force and creamy auditory experience, the Mamba switches offer a different typing experience compared to the Gold Brown Pro switches. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile.
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