Durock Mamba vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Durock Mamba and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Mamba linear switch to the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Mamba switches are revered for their smooth and gliding typing experience, along with a satisfying auditory feedback. In contrast, the Crystal Brown switches are known for their tactile bump, providing a more pronounced feel while typing. The Mamba switches are categorized as neutral, mild, thocky, and polished, offering a versatile option for various preferences. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown switches do not have a specific categorization. Depending on your typing style and preference for feedback, you may lean towards the Mamba for a smooth typing experience or the Crystal Brown for a more tactile response. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Extended long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Mamba and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches offer a stark contrast in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Mamba's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing provides a pleasant and bright sound profile that is not particularly sharp. In comparison, the Crystal Brown's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, adding a unique visual element to the switch.
On the other hand, the Mamba's POM bottom housing produces a deep and muted sound profile, offering a unique typing experience. In contrast, the Crystal Brown's nylon bottom housing creates a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller sound profile. While both materials provide distinct sound profiles, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound depth and clarity.
Despite the differences in housing materials for the Durock Mamba and Outemu Crystal Brown switches, the qualities of each material are strategically utilized in both switches to create a balanced keypress experience. The bottom housing of a switch influences the bottom-out sound and feel during typing, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. By combining different materials for the top and bottom housings, both switches are able to offer a unique sound profile and typing experience that caters to a variety of preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, we can see that the Mamba has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Crystal Brown's 55 grams, making the Mamba slightly heavier in that aspect. However, the actuation force of the Crystal Brown is lighter at 45 grams, whereas the Mamba's actuation force is unknown. This means that the Crystal Brown would require less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Mamba. While the Mamba may provide a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, the Crystal Brown's lighter actuation force could be preferred for those looking for a lighter touch during longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Mamba linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Crystal Brown switch the longer option between the two. A 3.5 mm travel distance is slightly shorter and may be preferred by those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Crystal Brown switch offers a bit more depth, which some users may find more comfortable for typing or extended use. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and the user's specific needs and typing style.
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 Crystal Brown 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
The Durock Mamba linear switch is known for its gliding typing sensation and rich, creamy auditory experience, offering a neutral sound profile with a thocky deep and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch does not have a specific sound or feel description provided. When it comes to feel, the Mamba switch offers a mild typing experience with a polished finish for smooth and refined key travel. Without a description available for the Crystal Brown, it is unclear how it specifically feels. Overall, if you prefer a linear switch with a moderate sound profile and gentle typing experience, the Durock Mamba would be a great choice. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps. Therefore, for a similar typing experience with the Crystal Brown switch, it would be recommended to pair it with a similar set-up to achieve comparable results.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, consider the following guidelines: If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a gliding typing sensation with a rich auditory experience, the Mamba switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and a tactile feedback, the Crystal Brown switch may be more suitable for you. Additionally, if you prefer a neutral or thocky sound profile and a mild or polished typing experience, the Mamba switch offers these qualities. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences regarding typing feel, sound, and bottom out force.
Mentioned in this article
