Durock Mamba vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Durock Mamba and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Mamba, a linear switch, and the Outemu Dustproof Purple, a clicky switch, it's important to consider the unique features of each. The Mamba is celebrated for its smooth keypresses, offering a seamless typing experience with a satisfying sound profile. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple switches don't have a specific claim to fame, but they provide a distinct tactile feedback with an audible click. Those who prefer a quiet typing experience may lean towards the Mamba, while fans of clicky switches may be drawn to the Dustproof Purple. 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
55g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Extended long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Mamba and the Outemu Dustproof Purple use different materials for their housing, with the Mamba featuring a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend for the top housing and a POM bottom housing, while the Dustproof Purple uses polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The Mamba's top housing offers a bright and pleasant sound profile, while the Dustproof Purple's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Purple is clear, making it a great choice for switches used with RGB lighting.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the two switches also differ, with the Mamba's POM bottom housing producing a deeper and muted sound profile, while the Dustproof Purple's nylon bottom housing creates a fuller and rounder sound. The choice of housing material for the bottom can have a significant impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch. The softer nylon material of the Dustproof Purple absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller sound profile compared to the POM material of the Mamba.
While the housing materials of the Durock Mamba and Outemu Dustproof Purple offer distinct sound profiles, the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference. Both switches provide unique characteristics based on the materials used for their top and bottom housings. Whether you prefer a brighter, sharper sound profile with the Mamba's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, or a deeper, fuller sound with the Dustproof Purple's polycarbonate and nylon blend, each switch offers a different typing experience that can cater to a variety of preferences.
Weight
The Durock Mamba linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch both have medium actuation forces, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch when typing for extended periods. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Mamba is lighter, requiring 60 grams of force compared to the Dustproof Purple's 65 grams, which is medium-heavy. Those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Dustproof Purple for its slightly heavier bottom out force. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with their moderate actuation forces, but the bottom out force may play a role in determining which switch is more suitable for individual preferences.
Travel distance
The Durock Mamba linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter compared to the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Mamba provides a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which is ideal for gamers seeking faster feedback. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple offers a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding travel distance and desired typing experience.
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 Purple 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 and thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience for both beginners and advanced users alike. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch's sound qualities are unknown, so it's hard to compare in this aspect.
In terms of feel, the Durock Mamba linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, making it gentle and approachable for most users. The smooth and refined finish of the switch results in a sleek typing feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch is unknown, making it difficult to make a direct comparison in this category.
Overall, based on the available information, the Durock Mamba linear switch seems to offer a more well-rounded and satisfying typing experience with its gliding sensation and rich auditory feedback. While the qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch are unknown, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel if you are looking for a linear switch with a good balance of actuation force, sound profile, and typing comfort. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a smooth and gliding typing experience with a creamy sound profile, the Mamba switch is a great choice with its medium bottom out force of 60 grams. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, the Dustproof Purple switch may be more up your alley. Consider factors like sound, feel, and actuation force when making your decision to ensure that your keyboard switch choice aligns with your typing preferences and needs. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so choose the one that best suits your individual preferences and needs.
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