Durock Mamba vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the Durock Mamba and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The world of mechanical keyboard switches offers a wide range of options, with each switch providing a unique typing experience. Two popular linear switches, the Durock Mamba and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream, stand out for their exceptional qualities. The Mamba switch, paying homage to the legendary Kobe Bryant, offers a smooth and gliding typing sensation accompanied by a rich and creamy sound. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished', these switches provide a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switch delivers a heavier linear typing sensation, with a deep sound profile that is distinct yet not overpowering. Classified as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', and 'Invigorating', these switches offer a unique and invigorating typing experience. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision on which switch suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Extended long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Mamba and Kailh NovelKeys Cream differ in their housing materials, with the Mamba featuring a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, while the Cream uses POM for its top housing. Despite this difference, both switches offer unique and pleasing sound profiles. The Mamba's blend creates a sound that is bright but not overly sharp, while the Cream's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. When it comes to typing experience, the bottom housing of both switches plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect to experience similar results in terms of sound profile, with the Mamba having a slightly brighter tone and the Cream offering a deeper and more muted sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Durock Mamba and Kailh NovelKeys Cream utilize POM housings, resulting in an incredibly pleasing and unique sound. The POM material contributes to a deeper sound profile and a relatively more muted tone for both switches. Consequently, when pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will significantly impact the resulting sound and feel. However, since both switches share the same POM bottom housing, users can expect a similar experience in terms of bottom-out sound and feel.
While the top and bottom housing materials differ between the Durock Mamba and Kailh NovelKeys Cream, it is important to note that the top housing has a more pronounced effect on the sound when a key is released. The Mamba's unique Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a sound profile that is bright yet not sharp, providing a pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, the Cream's POM top housing creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound. Although the sound profiles may vary due to the contrasting materials used, both switches still offer an enjoyable acoustic experience. This distinction in the top housing material allows users to customize their typing sound based on their preferences, with the Mamba providing a slightly brighter tone and the Cream delivering a deeper and more muted sound.
In conclusion, the Durock Mamba and Kailh NovelKeys Cream differ in their housing materials, impacting the sound profiles they produce. The Mamba's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing create a bright but not sharp sound, while the Cream's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted tone. However, both switches share the same POM bottom housing, resulting in a similar bottom-out sound and feel. Ultimately, the top housing material plays a more significant role in the sound when releasing a key, allowing users to customize their typing experience based on their desired sound profile. Whether opting for the Mamba or Cream, users can expect a uniquely pleasing sound from their chosen switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Durock Mamba has an actuation force that is not specifically mentioned, while the NovelKeys Cream requires an actuation force of 55 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Mamba requires 60 grams while the Cream requires 70 grams. Both switches fall into the medium range for bottom out force, but the Mamba is lighter in terms of actuation force.
Considering the weight of a switch is important for various reasons. Those who prefer a lighter switch will find it beneficial as it allows for longer periods of typing without causing fatigue. This makes it ideal for keyboards used in work environments or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience may opt for options with heavier forces.
A switch's actuation force refers to the amount of force required to trigger a keystroke, while bottom out force measures the amount of force needed to press the key all the way down. Both the Mamba and Cream switches provide similar results in terms of bottoming out, with medium to medium-heavy forces respectively. However, the Mamba requires a lighter actuation force compared to the Cream. Overall, individuals looking for a lighter switch may find the Mamba to be a suitable choice, while those who prefer a slightly heavier actuation force may lean towards the Cream.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch refers to the distance that the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. In this case, the Durock Mamba linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Mamba offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Cream switch.
Traditionally, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered the norm, while a 3.0 mm travel distance is considered more shallow. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, especially among gamers who favor faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive switch, opting for the Mamba with its shorter travel distance might be a better choice. On the other hand, some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and may prefer a switch with a longer travel distance like the Cream. It ultimately comes down to personal preference - whether you prefer a shorter, more agile feel or a longer and more substantial keystroke.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Cream has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Cream for $6.25.
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 and a moderate sound profile. This makes it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or at work. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch provides a low-pitched sound that features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Typing on the Cream switch offers a resonant sound profile, creating an immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp tone. It is important to note that the sound of the switch is influenced by factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps. Although the Mamba and Cream switches have different sound profiles, both can deliver a rich and satisfying auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Durock Mamba switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. The mild characteristics of this switch provide a gentle typing sensation that appeals to a wide range of users. Additionally, the polished finish of the Mamba switch contributes to a sleek and refined typing experience, reducing friction and allowing for smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. With these switches, users can expect a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. While the Mamba switch provides a safe and middle-ground feel, the Cream switch offers a more invigorating typing experience. Depending on individual preferences, some users may appreciate the textured feel of certain switches, while others prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience.
Overall, the Durock Mamba and Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mamba switch provides a gliding typing sensation and a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most intents and purposes. It offers a mild and polished feel, appealing to a wide range of users with its approachable qualities. On the other hand, the Cream switch delivers a heftier linear typing experience with a deeper sound profile and a buttery, invigorating feel. Both switches can provide enjoyable and satisfying typing experiences, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a fan of Kobe Bryant or if you simply appreciate a gliding typing sensation and a rich and creamy auditory experience, the Durock Mamba linear switch is a great choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various environments and skill levels. Additionally, the Mamba provides a mild and polished feel, resulting in a gentle and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a heftier linear typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch is the way to go. These switches offer a deeper sound profile than the average switch, featuring a low-pitched and resonant sound. If you enjoy a bass-heavy and mellow tone, the Cream switches will definitely satisfy your auditory preferences. In terms of feel, the Cream switches offer a buttery and textured typing sensation, providing a seamless and uniform keystroke experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Mamba and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize the tribute to Kobe Bryant, gliding typing sensation, and a rich and creamy auditory experience, the Mamba switch is an excellent option. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a heftier typing experience with a deeper sound profile and a buttery and textured feel, the NovelKeys Cream switch is the one for you. Consider your own typing preferences and the qualities that matter most to you, and you will be able to make an informed decision on which switch to choose. Happy typing!
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