TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique advantages depending on your typing preferences. The Gold Red Pro stands out for its versatility, providing a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature that suits any environment. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba pays tribute to Kobe Bryant and offers a smooth typing sensation with a rich auditory experience. While both switches are categorized as 'Neutral' and 'Thocky', the Gold Red Pro is 'Low-pitched' and 'Silky', while the Mamba is 'Polished'. 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
18.5mm spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Durock Mamba offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, crisper sound profile due to its stiff nature, while the Mamba's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a more pleasant and brighter sound. In terms of aesthetics, the Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting, while the Mamba's blend top housing is a unique combination that sets it apart.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. Conversely, the Mamba's POM bottom housing produces a deeper and more muted sound profile, adding a unique touch to the overall typing experience. These differences in bottom housing materials result in distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to varying preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
While the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Durock Mamba differ in terms of their top and bottom housings, each brings its own unique qualities to the typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper, more resonant sound profile with the Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top housing or a pleasant, brighter sound with the Mamba's blend top housing, both switches offer top-notch performance. Similarly, the differences in bottom housing materials provide users with a choice between a deeper, fuller sound profile with the Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing or a more muted sound with the Mamba's POM bottom housing. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences and offer a high-quality typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Durock Mamba linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Durock Mamba has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, while the bottom out force of the Gold Red Pro is not known. In terms of weight, the Gold Red Pro may be preferred by those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, while the Mamba may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for typing or gaming.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Durock Mamba linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for increased responsiveness. The Gold Red Pro offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys compared to the Mamba. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and the overall typing experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red 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 Red 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, both the TTC Gold Red Pro and Durock Mamba linear switches offer a thocky sound profile that is deep, rich, and satisfying when pressed. The Gold Red Pro leans towards a low-pitched and neutral sound, which can be suitable for various environments, while the Mamba also presents a neutral and thocky sound that adds to the overall typing experience. Ultimately, both switches will provide a pleasant auditory experience, especially when paired with the right keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Gold Red Pro is characterized by a polished, silky, mild, and subtle typing experience that is smooth, refined, gentle, and approachable. Similarly, the Mamba offers a mild and polished feel that enhances the overall smoothness of typing with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches fall into a comfortable middle ground, providing users with a satisfying and tactile typing sensation that is enjoyable for various typing activities.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Red Pro and Durock Mamba linear switches offer excellent qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold Red Pro may have a slightly lower-pitched sound profile compared to the Mamba, both switches provide a smooth and refined typing experience that is suitable for a wide range of users and typing preferences. Whether you choose the Gold Red Pro or the Mamba, you can expect a versatile and high-quality linear switch that will elevate your typing experience to new heights.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, consider the following. If you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile and versatile usability for various activities such as gaming, office work, or general typing, the Gold Red Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a distinctive gliding sensation while typing and a creamy sound experience, the Mamba switch could be the ideal fit. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique attributes in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. As you weigh your options, prioritize what aspects matter most to you in a keyboard switch to make the best decision for your typing needs.
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