Durock Mamba vs. KTT Peach
An in-depth look at the Durock Mamba and the KTT Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are several factors to consider, such as typing experience, auditory feedback, and personal preferences. Two popular options in the linear switch category are the Durock Mamba and the KTT Peach. Starting with the Mamba, this switch is best known for its tribute to Kobe Bryant and offers a gliding typing sensation. Additionally, it provides a rich and creamy auditory experience. Classified as neutral, mild, thocky, and polished, the Mamba switch offers a unique combination of characteristics. On the other hand, the Peach switch stands out with its syrupy smooth typing experience and deep thocky sound profile. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, and mild, the Peach switch offers a slightly different experience compared to the Mamba. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The Durock Mamba and the KTT Peach have different housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The Mamba's top housing is a blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE, resulting in a pleasant and bright sound. In contrast, the Peach's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Both materials offer clear and resonant sound profiles, with the Mamba's blend being slightly milder and the Peach's polycarbonate being crisper. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the Peach's top housing allows for greater compatibility with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Mamba features a POM material that creates a deeper and more muted sound. This unique sound profile adds an additional layer of depth to typing. Conversely, the Peach employs a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound. Nylon's softer and more sound-absorbent properties contribute to a duller sound profile that some typists may find particularly satisfying. Both materials offer distinct sound experiences, with the Mamba providing a deeper tone and the Peach delivering a fuller sound.
While the top and bottom housings differ between the Mamba and the Peach, they work together to enhance the overall typing experience. The bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a more noticeable impact on the sound when releasing a key. This means that both switches will offer similar results in terms of sound generation, with the Mamba's blend and POM combination resulting in a satisfying and unique typing experience, and the Peach's polycarbonate and nylon blend delivering a sharper and more resonant sound with a fuller sound upon release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, there are some notable differences. Starting with the actuation force, the Durock Mamba's specific measurement is currently unavailable, while the KTT Peach has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Peach requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the Mamba. On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Durock Mamba has a measurement of 60 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Peach, which has a bottom out force of 53 grams.
In terms of weight, the lighter actuation force of the Peach would be preferable for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing them to type for longer periods comfortably. This lightweight quality is especially beneficial for those using the keyboard for work or engaging in long gaming sessions. On the contrary, the Mamba's heavier bottom out force provides a more substantial and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
Although the specific actuation force of the Durock Mamba is currently unknown, it can be assumed to be somewhere between the 45 grams of the Peach and the 60 grams bottom out force of the Mamba. This leads to a similar result to the Peach regarding the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Mamba would offer a slightly heavier feel compared to the Peach. Overall, the Durock Mamba leans towards a heavier typing experience, while the KTT Peach provides a medium-light and lighter alternative.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard. The Durock Mamba linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Peach linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Mamba's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers who value faster response times, as it allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Peach's longer travel distance may be favored by those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on keys. It is worth noting that a 4.0 mm travel distance is considered the most traditional, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. Both options offer distinct benefits, so it ultimately depends 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 KTT Peach comes in at $2.91 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 with a touch of thockiness. This means that when the keys are pressed and released, there is a satisfying deep thud or soft knock. On the other hand, the KTT Peach linear switch provides a low-pitched sound profile. This gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches are considered to have a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for a wide range of users, from beginners to advanced typists. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Despite the slight differences in sound, both switches offer pleasing auditory experiences that can enhance your typing enjoyment.
In terms of feel, both the Durock Mamba and KTT Peach linear switches are described as providing a mild typing experience. This means that the typing sensation is more gentle and approachable, making them suitable for most users. The Mamba switch, in particular, is also characterized as being polished. This indicates that it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The use of high-quality materials and potential factory lubrication ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available about the feel of the Peach switch in terms of its finish or lubrication. However, based on its mild characteristics, it is safe to assume that it offers a comfortable typing experience similar to the Mamba switch.
In conclusion, both the Durock Mamba and KTT Peach linear switches offer their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mamba switch provides a gliding typing sensation and a rich and creamy auditory experience with its neutral and thocky sound profile. It also features a polished finish for a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Peach switch offers a syrupy smooth typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. Both switches have a mild feel, making them comfortable for most users. Although there are some differences, if you are looking for a linear switch with similar results, either of these switches will be a great choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force, the KTT Peach switches with their 53 grams bottom out force would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a syrupy smooth typing experience and a deep, thocky sound profile. The low-pitched sound adds a bass-heavy and mellow tone to your typing. Additionally, the Peach switches are described as having a mild feel, providing a gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable.
On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Durock Mamba switches with their 60 grams bottom out force are worth considering. These switches are known for their gliding typing sensation and rich, creamy auditory experience. The Mamba switches produce a neutral sound profile with some thocky characteristics, giving you that deep, satisfying "thud" or soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. The Mamba switches also have a mild feel but are additionally described as polished, providing a sleek and refined typing experience due to reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Mamba and KTT Peach switches boils down to your preference for a slightly lighter or heavier bottom out force, as well as the specific sound profile and typing experience you desire. Both switches offer great options for a neutral typing experience suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user and whether you plan to use them at home or work. Consider your personal preferences and needs to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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