HMX Gravel vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect linear mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the HMX Gravel and the Durock Mamba. The HMX Gravel switches are lauded for their exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, offering a medium-light actuation force that makes for a responsive and effortless experience. This makes them an excellent choice for those who prioritize a sleek and comfortable typing rhythm. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba switches pay tribute to Kobe Bryant, providing not only a gliding typing sensation but also a rich and creamy auditory experience that many users find satisfying. While the Gravel emphasizes a smooth and lightweight touch, the Mamba brings a unique combination of sound and feel that can enhance your typing experience. Both switches have their unique merits, tailored to different preferences and typing styles. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Gravel and the Durock Mamba, one primary distinction is evident in their top housing compositions. The HMX Gravel features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stiffness in the plastic allows for enhanced resonance, making it particularly effective for generating clarity in sound. Conversely, the Durock Mamba utilizes a unique blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its top housing. While this combination results in a brighter tone that is less sharp than the Gravel, it still offers a pleasant auditory experience. Although these materials produce different sound profiles, they both serve to accommodate RGB lighting, highlighting their translucency, which can enhance aesthetic appeal.
The bottom housing materials of both switches also present notable differences. The Gravel utilizes nylon, a classic material known for its ability to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This quality contributes significantly to the overall aural experience when engaging in typing. On the other hand, the Mamba features a POM bottom housing, which is recognized for creating a more muted sound profile that remains on the deeper side. While both bottom housings aim to cater to user preference for sound, nylon's softer nature tends to produce a fuller sound, whereas POM offers a distinct muted quality that still retains engaging tonal characteristics.
In essence, the differences between the Gravel and the Mamba's materials lead to varied sound profiles during use, with each contributing unique characteristics to the keypress experience. The top housing primarily influences the sound when releasing a key, giving the Gravel its crisper sound from the polycarbonate, while the Mamba's blend results in a brighter sound that feels distinct yet pleasant. Meanwhile, the nylon bottom of the Gravel enhances the overall depth and fullness, contrasting with the muted nature of the Mamba's POM bottom. However, despite their differences, both switches provide satisfying experiences; the unique sound profiles they produce can be fine-tuned to personal preferences, ensuring that users can achieve their desired auditory outcome depending on their choice of switch.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Gravel switch features a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for long typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less effort to engage each key. In contrast, the Mamba switch does not specify an actuation force (noted as None grams) but has a higher bottom out force of 60 grams, categorized as medium. This suggests that while the Gravel may be easier to activate, the Mamba provides a more substantial resistance when pressed down fully, appealing to users who prefer a firmer feedback. Consequently, for users favoring a lighter switch that minimizes finger fatigue, the Gravel is the optimal choice, while those who appreciate a heavier response might lean towards the Mamba. Overall, the Gravel is the lighter option based on available force data.
Travel distance
The HMX Gravel linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this particular aspect. This similarity means that users can expect a consistent keypress feel between the two switches, providing a comparable experience when typing or gaming. With both switches featuring the same travel distance, they are designed to deliver similar tactile feedback and responsiveness, ensuring that regardless of the choice between these two options, the distance they travel from the top to the bottom remains unchanged.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel for $2.99.
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 Gravel switch does not have a specified auditory profile in the provided information, making it somewhat of an unknown. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba features a neutral sound that is moderate in both actuation force and sound output, which makes it versatile for various environments, whether at home or in the office. Additionally, Mamba switches have a thocky quality that delivers a deep, satisfying sound with each keystroke, providing a rich auditory feedback that is often preferred by enthusiasts.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Gravel switches are celebrated for their exceptional smoothness and refined typing experience, characterized by a medium-light actuation force that provides a responsive and effortless typing sensation. In contrast, the Durock Mamba switches offer a mild typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a gentler touch. The Mamba switches also stand out with a polished finish, which significantly enhances the overall smoothness and reduces friction during key travel, resulting in a sleek and enjoyable typing experience.
In summary, while the Gravel switches shine in their smooth and responsive feel, the Durock Mamba switches offer a balanced combination of a mild typing experience and satisfying auditory feedback. The differences in sound and feel indicate that while both switches aim to provide enjoyable typing experiences, they cater to slightly different preferences—those who cherish smoothness and refinement may gravitate towards Gravel, while those who appreciate a touch of auditory engagement and a polished finish might prefer the Mamba. Ultimately, both switches have unique qualities that can lead to similar enjoyable results depending on individual user preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, the choice between HMX Gravel and Durock Mamba linear switches ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing habits. If you're someone who prefers a lighter actuation force and values a smooth, refined typing experience, the Gravel switch might be the perfect fit. Its 50-gram bottom out force allows for quick keystrokes, making it especially suitable for fast typists or gamers who thrive on speed and responsiveness. Additionally, the Gravel's exceptional smoothness enhances comfort during extended typing sessions, making it an excellent option for those who prioritize a seamless feel. On the other hand, if you lean towards a medium resistance and appreciate a mild yet polished typing sensation, the Mamba switch could be your go-to. Its 60-gram bottom out force provides a bit more heft, which some users find more satisfying, while its thocky sound profile adds an auditory dimension that many find enjoyable. The Mamba’s balanced characteristics make it versatile for both gaming and typing, catering to users who desire a middle-ground experience. In short, choose the Gravel for a lighter, smoother feel, and opt for the Mamba if you want a more substantial typing experience with a pleasing sound.
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