Durock Mamba vs. KTT Matcha

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Durock Mamba and the KTT Matcha. The Mamba, a linear switch, offers a smooth and effortless typing experience, accompanied by a satisfying and creamy sound. On the other hand, the Matcha, a tactile switch, provides a comfortable and responsive tactility while typing, making each keystroke feel snappy. Additionally, its long pole stem contributes to a clean and distinct bottom-out sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch that suits your typing preferences.

By the numbers

Durock Mamba Linear

KTT Matcha Tactile

$6.50

$5.17 per 10

$5.20

$4.88 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Durock Mamba and the KTT Matcha differ in several aspects. Starting with the top housing, the Mamba utilizes a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend, which offers a pleasant sound profile that is not particularly sharp but is brighter. On the other hand, the Matcha features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it suitable when using RGB lighting. Despite the differences, both housing materials aim to enhance the overall auditory experience, albeit in distinct ways.

When it comes to the bottom housing, the Mamba incorporates POM, resulting in an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. In contrast, the Matcha utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which, similar to its top housing counterpart, creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also allows for a visual appeal, particularly when paired with RGB lighting. Although the bottom housing predominantly affects the bottom-out sound and feel upon pressing the switch, both housings aim to provide an enhanced auditory experience, albeit with different tonal qualities.

While there are certainly differences in the housing materials of the Durock Mamba and the KTT Matcha, it is worth noting that they share some similarities. Both switches utilize a polycarbonate material in either the top or bottom housing, offering a sharper and more resonant sound profile. Additionally, both switches prioritize creating a pleasant and unique sound experience. However, the specific blends and combinations of materials result in slightly different sound characteristics between the two switches. Regardless, users can expect enhanced sound quality and potentially utilize RGB lighting for aesthetic purposes with either of these switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Mamba's actuation force is listed as unavailable grams, while the Matcha requires a lighter actuation force of 40 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Mamba registers at 60 grams, which is considered medium, whereas the Matcha has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams.

The weight of a switch is essential to consider for various reasons. Some individuals prefer lighter switches as they allow for longer typing periods, making them ideal for work environments or extended gaming sessions. These lighter switches can offer a more comfortable experience over extended periods. On the other hand, some users prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. For these individuals, switches with heavier forces are more suitable, as they provide a tactile feedback and a more pronounced keystroke sensation.

While the actuation force of the Mamba is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare to the Matcha in this aspect, the Matcha stands out as the lighter option in both actuation and bottom out forces. This makes it a favorable choice for those seeking a more effortless and responsive typing experience. The Mamba, on the other hand, may appeal to users who prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force for a more robust typing experience. Both switches offer their unique benefits, allowing users to find the one that best suits their personal preferences.

Travel distance

The travel distances of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch are different from each other. The Mamba has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Matcha has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Mamba falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which are gaining popularity in recent times, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. With its 3.5 mm travel distance, the Mamba offers a more responsive feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Matcha, with its 4 mm travel distance, falls into the more traditional range, providing a deeper and more substantial keystroke for those who prefer that extra depth. Both switches offer their own advantages based on personal preferences, so choosing between them depends on whether you prioritize a shorter, more responsive travel distance or a longer, more substantial one.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Durock Mamba linear switch can be described as having a neutral profile with a moderate sound. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and produces a moderate sound when pressed and released. The sound can be characterized as a rich and creamy auditory experience, providing a satisfying typing sound. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is described as having a clacky sound profile. This means that it produces a sharp, snappy, and percussive sound when pressed. The bottom-out sound of the Matcha switch is notably clean due to its long pole stem. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.

When it comes to feel, the Durock Mamba linear switch offers a mild typing experience with a safe, middle-ground feel. It provides a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This contributes to a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is described as having multiple feel characteristics. It is stepped, meaning it feels like it has two stages with noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel. It is also described as snappy, offering a super responsive typing experience. It is an accented switch, providing a medium amount of tactility that is not overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the Matcha switch can be characterized as feathery, having a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. It is also considered a subtle switch with gentle resistance and a suitable sound signature for shared spaces.

Overall, the Durock Mamba linear switch offers a gliding typing sensation and a rich and creamy auditory experience. It provides a neutral sound profile and a mild typing feel with a polished finish. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch offers a comfortable, snappy tactility and a distinctly clean bottom-out sound. It produces a clacky sound profile and has multiple feel characteristics such as being stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle. Both switches offer unique qualities and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a linear switch with a moderate sound profile and a mild typing experience, the Mamba is a great choice. If you prefer a tactile switch with a snappy sound profile and a variety of feel characteristics, the Matcha is an excellent option. Depending on the chosen board and keycaps, you can achieve similar results in terms of sound, but the feel will be different due to the inherent characteristics of each switch.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-bottom out force of 60 grams, the Durock Mamba is a great choice. It offers a gliding typing sensation and a rich auditory experience. The Mamba is known for its neutral and thocky sound profile, suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you are using it at home or work. In terms of feel, the Mamba provides a mild and polished experience, with a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel.

On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a light-bottom out force of 45 grams, the KTT Matcha is an excellent option. It offers a comfortable and snappy tactility when typing. The Matcha provides a distinctly clean bottom-out sound due to its long pole stem, resulting in a clacky sound profile. In terms of feel, the Matcha offers a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle experience, making it suitable for various preferences and typing styles.

Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Mamba and the KTT Matcha boils down to your personal preference for linear or tactile switches and the specific characteristics you are seeking in a switch. Both switches offer unique advantages and are suitable for different typing experiences. Whether you prioritize a gliding sensation and rich auditory experience, or a comfortable snappy tactility, there is a switch that caters to your needs.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Mamba Linear

$6.50

$5.17 per 10

Learn more

KTT Matcha Tactile

$5.20

$4.88 per 10

Learn more