Durock Mamba vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Durock Mamba and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch offer unique typing experiences. The Mamba, designed as a tribute to Kobe Bryant, provides a smooth and seamless typing experience with a luxurious sound profile. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown switch offers a tactile feedback that appeals to typists looking for a slight bump in each keystroke. While the Mamba is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Polished', the Dustproof Brown switch does not have specific categorization. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences. 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
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Extended long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Mamba and the Outemu Dustproof Brown offer distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Mamba's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing creates a brighter and pleasant sound profile, while the Dustproof Brown's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Dustproof Brown results in a more resonant sound due to its stiffness, especially enhancing RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Mamba's POM bottom housing produces a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Dustproof Brown's nylon bottom housing offers a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer nature.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Durock Mamba and the Outemu Dustproof Brown vary, they both contribute to the unique sound profiles of the switches. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings affect how the switches feel and sound when pressed. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings allows for a dynamic typing experience that is influenced by both materials.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Mamba and the Outemu Dustproof Brown housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference and desired sound characteristics. The Mamba's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in the top housing offers a unique and bright sound profile, while its POM bottom housing provides a deeper and more muted sound. In contrast, the Dustproof Brown's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharp and crisp sound, complemented by the nylon bottom housing for a fuller and rounder sound. Whether seeking a brighter and resonant sound or a more subdued and fuller sound, both switches offer distinct qualities to enhance the typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch differ slightly in weight. The Durock Mamba has no specified actuation force, making it lighter in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while its bottom out force is 60 grams, which is considered medium. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Mamba, and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is medium-heavy. Both switches offer a similar typing experience, as they fall within the medium range of force required, with the Mamba being slightly lighter and the Dustproof Brown being slightly heavier. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier keystroke feel.
Travel distance
The Durock Mamba linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to this variance in travel distance. The shorter travel distance of the Mamba may appeal to gamers who prioritize quick response times, while the longer travel distance of the Dustproof Brown may be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper, more tactile typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference 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 Dustproof 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Mamba linear switch offers a neutral and thocky auditory experience, providing a satisfying deep sound when pressed. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch is unknown. While the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used, users can expect a rich and creamy sound from the Mamba and potentially a different sound experience from the Dustproof Brown switch.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Mamba linear switch is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience, providing a gentle and smooth feel while typing. This indicates a comfortable and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, details on the tactile feel of the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch are unavailable. Despite this, users can anticipate a comfortable typing experience with the Mamba switch, while the feel of the Dustproof Brown switch remains uncertain.
Taking all available information into consideration, the Durock Mamba linear switch stands out for its smooth and refined typing experience with a satisfying deep sound profile. While the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch lacks specific information on its sound and feel characteristics, users may still expect a different but potentially enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing sensation. Users can experiment with both switches to determine which one aligns best with their typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, you should choose the Mamba if you prefer a gliding typing sensation and a rich and creamy auditory experience. The Mamba's medium bottom out force of 60 grams makes it a great option for those looking for a medium actuation force switch. On the other hand, you should choose the Dustproof Brown if you prefer a switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. The Dustproof Brown offers a tactile typing experience without a specific sound or feel descriptor. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize typing feel or bottom out force. Consider your typing preferences and needs when choosing between these two switches.
Mentioned in this article
