TTC Gold Pink vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the TTC Gold Pink and the Durock Mamba, both of which are linear switches. The Gold Pink switches are renowned for their lightness, boasting a mere 37g actuation force, making them ideal for those who prefer a fast and effortless typing experience. Perfect for both rapid typing and gaming, these switches offer a satisfying level of feedback with their clacky sound. On the other hand, the Mamba switches pay tribute to the legendary Kobe Bryant and provide a unique typing sensation with a gliding feeling. Users can also enjoy a rich and creamy auditory experience while typing on these switches. While these general descriptions might give you a good sense of what to expect, let's delve deeper into the specifics to help you make an informed decision on which switch would be best suited to your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Pink and the Durock Mamba have distinct differences in their housing materials. The Gold Pink utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It is also translucent, making it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Mamba features a unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its top housing. This blend offers a pleasant sound profile that is not particularly sharp but skewed towards a brighter sound.
In terms of bottom housings, the Gold Pink incorporates a nylon material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its relatively softer texture absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Meanwhile, the Mamba employs a POM bottom housing, which produces an incredibly pleasing and unique sound. This sound profile leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted compared to the Gold Pink's nylon bottom housing.
While the top and bottom housings differ for these switches, they contribute different qualities to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel upon pressing the switch, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This means that users can expect distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback from both the Gold Pink and the Mamba due to their varying housing materials. However, if similar results are desired, the Gold Pink's polycarbonate top housing and the Mamba's nylon bottom housing may yield comparable sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the TTC Gold Pink and the Durock Mamba linear switches, there are notable differences to consider. The actuation force of the Gold Pink is 37 grams, while the Mamba's actuation force is unknown. Both switches have a bottom out force of 45 grams and 60 grams respectively.
In terms of weight, the Gold Pink is lighter in actuation force, providing a more effortless keystroke. This lighter actuation force may be desirable for individuals who type for extended periods or engage in lengthy gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Mamba's actuation force remains undisclosed, so its comparison to the Gold Pink is challenging.
When it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Pink and the Mamba offer slightly different experiences. The Gold Pink requires a force of 45 grams to fully depress the key, providing a relatively light and satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Mamba demands a bottom out force of 60 grams, presenting a medium-level resistance. This heavier force may be favored by individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel.
Overall, while the actuation force of the Gold Pink is lighter and its bottom out force is equal to that of the Mamba, it is difficult to draw a comprehensive comparison between the two switches without knowing the exact actuation force of the latter. However, those seeking a lighter keystroke may find the Gold Pink more suitable, while individuals desiring a slightly heavier typing experience may prefer the Mamba.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch have different travel distances. The Gold Pink has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Mamba has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, the Gold Pink falls on the longer side at 4 mm, while the Mamba is slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. Both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience, but if you prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Mamba would be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper, more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys, the Gold Pink's longer travel distance may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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 Gold Pink switches are known for their clacky sound, providing a satisfying level of feedback. On the other hand, the Mamba switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, which means they have a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes. Additionally, the Mamba switches are also described as thocky, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed and released. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gold Pink switches are described using various terms: buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. These terms indicate that the Gold Pink switches provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with a gentle typing feel. The actuation force of 37g makes them exceptionally light to press and reduces finger fatigue, making them comfortable for extended typing sessions. The switches also have a gentle resistance and maintain a light typing feel, suitable for shared spaces. Additionally, the Gold Pink switches are polished, providing a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Meanwhile, the Mamba switches are described as mild and polished in terms of feel. This means that they offer a gentle typing experience, similar to the Gold Pink switches. They also have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience and reduced friction.
In conclusion, the Gold Pink switches are known for their lightness, clacky sound, and various subjective feel qualities, including being buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. The Mamba switches, on the other hand, are a tribute to Kobe Bryant and provide a gliding typing sensation and a rich and creamy auditory experience. While the Mamba switches have different sound and feel characteristics compared to the Gold Pink switches, they still offer a mild and polished typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, both switches can deliver similar results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, if you value a light and lively typing experience with a fast and effortless feel, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 45 grams and an actuation force of 37 grams, these switches offer a satisfying level of feedback and a clacky sound. They provide a seamless and uniform typing sensation, making them perfect for rapid typing or gaming.
On the other hand, if you prefer a gliding typing sensation and a rich and creamy auditory experience, the Durock Mamba linear switch would be a suitable option. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, these switches offer a medium actuation force requirement. They have a mild typing experience and a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience.
In terms of sound, the Gold Pink switch offers a yet-to-be-determined description, while the Mamba switch is described as having a neutral sound profile or a thocky sound. Both switches are suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work.
In terms of feel, the Gold Pink switch is described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, or polished. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, a gentle typing experience, a light and comfortable feel, a gentle resistance, and a sleek typing experience. The Mamba switch, on the other hand, is described as mild and polished, offering a more gentle typing experience and a sleek and refined finish.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch depends on your preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter and livelier feel with a clacky sound, the Gold Pink switch is the way to go. If you prefer a gliding typing sensation and a rich auditory experience with a more gentle and polished feel, the Mamba switch would be a great fit. Consider your needs and preferences and choose the switch that aligns most with what you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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