Durock Mamba vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Durock Mamba and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Mamba linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for. The Mamba is praised for its smooth typing experience and subtle sound profile, making it a great option for those who prefer a quieter, linear switch. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue offers a more tactile and audible typing experience, perfect for those who enjoy the clicky feedback. 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
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Mamba and the Outemu Dustproof Blue, one noticeable difference lies in the top housing material. The Mamba utilizes a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend, which offers a pleasant and bright sound profile. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, particularly ideal for those looking to enhance RGB lighting aesthetics. While both materials provide unique sound profiles, the Mamba's blend leans towards a softer tone compared to the stiffer polycarbonate used in the Dustproof Blue.
Moving onto the bottom housing, the Mamba's POM material generates a deeper and muted sound profile, offering a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue employs a nylon bottom housing known for eliciting a fuller and rounder sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller yet richer typing sound. Although both materials contribute to enhancing the typing experience, the Mamba's POM bottom housing may suit those who prefer a deeper and quieter sound, while the Dustproof Blue's nylon housing caters to individuals seeking a fuller and more resonant typing sound.
In terms of overall typing experience, the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials play a significant role in determining the sound and feel of a switch. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the unique characteristics of the Mamba's housing blend and POM bottom housing complement each other to create a balanced and pleasing typing experience. Similarly, the Dustproof Blue's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials work together to produce a sharp and clear sound profile that resonates well with users seeking a distinct typing sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch differ slightly in weight. The Mamba has no specified actuation force, making it potentially lighter than the Dustproof Blue, which has an actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Mamba requires 60 grams, while the Dustproof Blue needs 65 grams, making the Dustproof Blue slightly heavier. The lighter actuation force of the Mamba may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier bottom out force of the Dustproof Blue may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy force range, offering similar results for those who enjoy tactile feedback in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Durock Mamba linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Mamba offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which can be beneficial for gamers looking for faster input. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue switch provides a deeper key press with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between the two depends on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Dustproof 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Mamba linear switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users, whether beginners or advanced typists. It also provides a thocky sound that is deep and satisfying, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch's sound profile is not provided, making it difficult to compare the two in terms of auditory experience.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Mamba switch offers a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users. Additionally, it has a polished finish which results in smooth key travel and reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing feel. In contrast, information on the typing feel of the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is not available, making it challenging to compare the two switches in terms of tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while the Durock Mamba linear switch excels in providing a gliding typing sensation and a rich auditory experience, along with a mild and polished typing feel, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch remain unknown. Therefore, if you are looking for a linear switch with a neutral sound profile and a gentle typing experience, the Durock Mamba switch may be the way to go. However, for those interested in a clicky switch, further information on the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch may be needed to make a more informed decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference in typing experience. If you are looking for a smooth and creamy typing sensation with a moderate actuation force, the Mamba switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky tactile feedback with a heavier bottom out force, the Dustproof Blue switch may be more suitable for you. Consider your typing style, environment, and personal preference when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
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