Durock Mamba vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Durock Mamba and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Mamba and the Outemu Cream Blue offer distinct experiences for users. The Durock Mamba is a linear switch that pays tribute to Kobe Bryant, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience with a rich and creamy auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue is a clicky switch that offers a more tactile and audible typing experience. The Mamba switch is categorized as neutral, mild, thocky, polished, while the Cream Blue switch does not have a specific category. When considering which switch to choose, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Extended long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Mamba and the Outemu Cream Blue switches both utilize nylon in their top housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the Mamba's top housing blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE offers a slightly brighter sound compared to the Cream Blue's classic nylon top housing. In terms of the bottom housing, the Mamba's POM material produces a more muted and deeper sound profile, while the Cream Blue's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Although both switches use nylon in their top and bottom housing, the unique blend of materials in the Durock Mamba creates a sound profile that is slightly brighter and on the deeper side, compared to the Outemu Cream Blue's more classic nylon housing. The POM bottom housing of the Mamba contributes to a more muted sound profile, while the Cream Blue's nylon bottom housing creates a fuller sound profile. These differences in housing materials result in subtle variations in the sound and feel of typing on each switch.
Ultimately, the housing materials of the Durock Mamba and the Outemu Cream Blue switches play a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of typing on each switch. While the Mamba features a unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its top housing and POM in its bottom housing, the Cream Blue utilizes classic nylon for both top and bottom housing. These differences result in a slightly brighter sound profile for the Mamba and a deeper, fuller sound profile for the Cream Blue, showcasing how housing materials can impact the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Mamba is lighter in terms of actuation force with None grams compared to the Cream Blue's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Mamba requires 60 grams, while the Cream Blue needs 65 grams, making the Cream Blue slightly heavier in this aspect. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Durock Mamba for longer typing sessions, while individuals seeking a more substantial key press may opt for the Outemu Cream Blue for a stronger push feel. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium to medium-heavy typing experience depending on individual preferences.
Travel distance
The Durock Mamba linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Cream Blue has a longer travel distance compared to the Mamba. The Mamba's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for a quicker response time, while the Cream Blue's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the typing experience each individual is looking for.
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 Outemu Cream Blue comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 Durock Mamba linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The switch also produces a thocky sound, characterized by a deep and satisfying thud when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch has no specific sound description available, but clicky switches typically produce a loud and tactile clicking noise when pressed. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Mamba linear switch provides a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. The switch is also described as polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is not specified, but clicky switches are known for their tactile and audible feedback, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy the sensation of pressing keys.
Overall, both the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mamba provides a gliding typing sensation and a rich auditory experience with a neutral and thocky sound profile, the Cream Blue is likely to offer a loud and tactile clicking noise with a tactile typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, but with different characteristics to suit your individual needs. Ultimately, it is important to consider factors such as personal preference, typing style, and the overall typing environment when choosing between these two switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, you should choose the Mamba if you're looking for a smooth and creamy typing experience with a moderate bottom out force of 60 grams. The Mamba offers a neutral sound profile and a mild feel, making it a great choice for general typing tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, the Cream Blue might be more suitable for you. Keep in mind that the Cream Blue doesn't have any specific sound or feel descriptions provided, so it may offer a more traditional clicky typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and force requirements.
Mentioned in this article
