Durock Mamba vs. Outemu Silent Yellow Jade
An in-depth look at the Durock Mamba and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, there are key differences to consider. The Durock Mamba provides a smooth and gliding typing experience with a rich auditory feedback, making it a great choice for those who enjoy linear switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade offers a quiet and tactile typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound, ideal for those who prefer tactile switches. 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
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 Silent Yellow Jade switches both offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Mamba's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing provides a brighter and pleasant sound, while the Silent Yellow Jade's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon in the Silent Yellow Jade creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the Mamba's blend of materials.
In terms of bottom housing, the Mamba's POM housing creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile, while the Silent Yellow Jade's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. Despite both switches using nylon material in their bottom housing, the Mamba's POM material adds a unique element to its sound profile. Overall, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their combination of materials in the top and bottom housings.
While there are differences in the housing materials of the Durock Mamba and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches, both switches provide a unique sound profile and tactile feel to users. The split in qualities between the top and bottom housings of a switch means that each contributes to a different aspect of the typing experience. Whether feeling the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound or the influence of the top housing on the release sound, users can expect a distinct typing experience from each switch. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality construction that enhances the typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, it is evident that the Mamba has a lighter actuation force of None grams compared to the 50 grams of the Silent Yellow Jade. However, the Mamba has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Silent Yellow Jade has a bottom out force of 65 grams. This makes the Silent Yellow Jade a bit heavier overall in terms of typing feel. Individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Mamba, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Silent Yellow Jade. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a balanced typing experience for users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
The Durock Mamba linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Mamba has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Silent Yellow Jade. The difference is minimal, but it may affect the feel and responsiveness of the switch when typing or gaming. Those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may find the Mamba more suitable, while those who prefer a slightly shorter travel distance for quicker response times may prefer the Silent Yellow Jade. 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 Silent Yellow Jade 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 typing experience with a moderate sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and scenarios. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch provides a satisfying "thocky" sound that is deep and rich, enhancing the overall typing experience. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Mamba linear switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable, thanks to its safe middle-ground characteristics. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch ensures smooth key travel with reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing feel. As for the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, information regarding its specific feel characteristics is unknown.
Overall, both the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Mamba excels in providing a gliding typing sensation and a rich auditory experience, the Silent Yellow Jade stands out for its quiet typing experience and punchy tactile bump. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience that meets your needs. Whether you opt for the Mamba or the Silent Yellow Jade, you can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, consider the typing experience you value most. If you prefer a smooth and creamy linear typing sensation with a neutral sound profile, the Mamba may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a quiet and tactile typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound and a punchy tactile bump, the Silent Yellow Jade could be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.