Durock Mamba vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Durock Mamba and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Mamba and the Gateron North Pole V2 both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. On one hand, the Mamba switches are a tribute to Kobe Bryant and provide a satisfying linear typing experience. They offer a gliding sensation and a rich and creamy auditory experience that many typists enjoy. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished', these switches are ideal for those who prefer a smooth and polished feel to their typing. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 switches are best described as gummy, offering a deep and muted sound profile along with a satisfying chewy typing feel. Categorized as 'Gummy', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', 'Bouncy', and 'Polished', these switches are perfect for individuals who prefer a slightly bouncier and subdued typing experience. 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
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Extended long spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Mamba and the Gateron North Pole V2 have distinct differences that contribute to their overall sound profiles. Starting with the top housing, the Mamba utilizes a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend, resulting in a sound profile that is pleasant and bright without being excessively sharp. In contrast, the North Pole V2 incorporates polycarbonate in its top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it a suitable choice for switches that allow RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Mamba's POM material brings about a deeper and relatively muted sound profile. This housing material contributes to an incredibly pleasing and unique sound when the switch is actuated. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 reflects the same qualities as its top housing - a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Similarly, the bottom housing of a switch has a stronger influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Despite their contrasting housing materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles that users can appreciate. While the Mamba's blend provides a brighter and pleasant sound, the North Pole V2's polycarbonate delivers a sharper and more resonant sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired audio experience. However, it is important to note that the top housing plays a significant role in how the sound is perceived, making it an essential factor to consider when selecting a switch. Whether opting for the Mamba or the North Pole V2, users can expect similar results in terms of the impact the housing materials have on the sound and feel of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of the Mamba is unavailable, while the North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the North Pole V2 requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the Mamba. However, the bottom out force of the Mamba is 60 grams, which is lighter than the North Pole V2's bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Mamba provides a slightly softer, less substantial typing experience compared to the North Pole V2.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for longer periods of time without fatigue. These switches are ideal for those who bring their keyboards to work or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, some individuals prefer a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. These individuals should consider options with heavier forces.
In this comparison, the North Pole V2 can be considered the lighter option due to its lower actuation force. The Mamba, on the other hand, is slightly heavier due to its higher bottom out force. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, providing users with a similar typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Mamba and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switches, it is evident that the Mamba has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the North Pole V2 has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference between these two lengths may seem negligible, but it can have an impact on the overall typing or gaming experience. The 4.0mm travel distance of the North Pole V2 is considered more traditional and provides a deeper keystroke, which some individuals may find more satisfying. On the other hand, the 3.5mm travel distance of the Mamba is preferred by gamers looking for faster response times due to the shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and whether an individual values a deeper and more pronounced keystroke or a quicker and more responsive typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 Durock Mamba switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This means that it produces a comfortable and well-balanced sound, suitable for various usage scenarios. It has a thocky sound, which gives a deep, rich, and satisfying "thud" or "knock" when pressed and released. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch has a subdued sound profile, providing a dampened sound compared to most switches. While not completely silent, it offers a more subtle sound signature. It is important to consider that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Durock Mamba switch offers a mild and approachable typing experience. It falls within a safe middle ground, providing a gentle typing sensation suitable for most users. It also has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Gateron North Pole V2 switch, on the other hand, offers a unique typing experience with a gummy feel. It gives the sensation of bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear, which can be quite satisfying for those who enjoy a softer and bouncy typing feel. Additionally, it has a creamy feel due to the smooth and buttery typing experience it provides. This can be attributed to either factory lubrication or specific materials used.
In conclusion, the Durock Mamba and Gateron North Pole V2 switches have distinct subjective qualities. The Mamba switch offers a rich and creamy auditory experience, with a thocky sound profile and a polished feel, providing a refined typing experience. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 switch offers a deep and muted sound profile, along with a satisfying chewy and bouncy typing feel, making it a unique option. While their sound and feel differ, both switches are suitable for a wide range of users and can provide enjoyable typing experiences. It is important to consider personal preferences and carefully choose the switch that aligns with your desired typing sensations.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Durock Mamba linear switch or the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and typing style. The Mamba offers a gliding typing sensation and a rich and creamy auditory experience. It has a neutral or thocky sound profile, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings. Additionally, the Mamba provides a mild and polished typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the North Pole V2 switch is best known for its gummy feel and muted sound profile. It offers a satisfying chewy typing feel and a subdued sound when pressed. The North Pole V2 is described as gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished. These qualities make it a unique option for those who prefer a softer, trampoline-like bottoming-out sensation and a more subtle sound signature.
In summary, if you prioritize a gliding typing sensation, a rich and creamy auditory experience, and a more neutral or thocky sound profile, the Durock Mamba linear switch would be a suitable choice for you. However, if you prefer a gummy, creamy, bouncy typing feel with a subdued sound, then the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you desire.