Durock Mamba vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Durock Mamba and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Mamba and the KTT Purple Click. The Durock Mamba is a linear switch that is best known for its smooth gliding typing sensation and rich auditory experience. It falls under the categories of 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click is a clicky switch that offers a satisfying high-pitched click with light keystrokes and pronounced tactility. It is categorized as 'Crunchy', 'Invigorating', 'Resonant', and 'Stepped'. Choosing between these switches depends on your preferences and needs. If you value a smooth and creamy typing experience, the Mamba could be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a more pronounced click and tactile feedback, the Purple Click might be the better option. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Mamba and KTT Purple Click switches offer distinct differences in sound profiles and aesthetics. The Mamba's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing creates a pleasant and bright sound profile, striking a balance between sharpness and brightness. In contrast, the Purple Click's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, leading to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent property of polycarbonate makes it ideal for utilizing RGB lighting. Although they result in different sound profiles, both housing materials can provide satisfactory sound experiences.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Mamba's POM bottom housing generates a deeper and relatively muted sound. The combination of POM creates a unique sound profile that is pleasing to the ears. On the other hand, the Purple Click employs a nylon bottom housing which elicits a fuller and deeper sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, the sound produced by the nylon bottom housing is rounder and duller. These contrasting properties of the bottom housings greatly influence the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches.
In terms of user experience, the top housing of a switch impacts the sound when the key is released, while the bottom housing influences the sound and feel upon pressing down the key. Therefore, when comparing the Mamba and the Purple Click, the differences in their top and bottom housings will result in varying sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Mamba's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in the top housing combines brightness and sharpness, while the POM bottom housing creates a deeper and more muted sound upon bottoming out. In contrast, the Purple Click's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper sound, and the nylon bottom housing delivers a fuller and rounder sound upon key press. Although the materials differ, both switches offer unique and satisfactory typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, it can be noted that the Mamba has an actuation force of unavailable grams, while the Purple Click requires 40 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. This suggests that the Purple Click may provide a slightly lighter typing experience when it comes to initial actuation. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Mamba requires 60 grams of force, while the Purple Click requires 55 grams. This implies that the Mamba offers a slightly heavier and more substantial feel when fully pressing down compared to the Purple Click.
Considering the aspect of weight, individuals who prefer a lighter switch may find the lower actuation force of the Purple Click more suitable, especially for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience might prefer the Mamba with its heavier bottom out force.
Overall, while the specific actuation force for the Mamba is unknown, it can be perceived as heavier compared to the Purple Click due to its higher bottom out force. Therefore, individuals aiming for a lighter typing feel can opt for the Purple Click, while those desiring a heavier keystroke may find the Mamba more fitting. Ultimately, both switches provide a medium level of actuation and bottom out force, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Mamba linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch have different travel distances. The Mamba has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Purple Click has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Purple Click has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Mamba.
In general, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, while 3.0 mm is considered more shallow. However, shorter travel distances have become more popular recently, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. For those seeking a more responsive typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Mamba switch would be ideal.
On the other hand, individuals who prefer a deeper and more substantial typing feel may find the longer travel distance of the Purple Click switch more satisfying. It is important to note that personal preferences play a significant role in choosing the appropriate switch. Ultimately, if you prioritize quicker response times, the Mamba switch with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. Conversely, if you prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Purple Click switch with its longer travel distance would be the better option.
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 Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
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 has a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and produces a relatively moderate sound. The sound it produces can be described as thocky, with a deep, rich, and satisfying tone. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch offers a crunchy sound, similar to stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. It also has a higher-pitched, resonant sound profile that provides an immersive auditory experience. Overall, if you're looking for a switch with a clean and sharp sound profile, the Purple Click would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a switch with a more deep and satisfying thocky sound, the Mamba is a great option.
In terms of feel, the Durock Mamba linear switch provides a mild typing experience. Its qualities are in a safe, middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. Additionally, it has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. The Purple Click clicky switch, on the other hand, offers an invigorating typing sensation. It has pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. It also has a stepped feel, meaning that it provides a mild tactile sensation with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. If you're looking for a switch that offers a gentle and polished typing experience, the Mamba would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a switch that provides a more immersive and tactile typing sensation, the Purple Click would be a better fit.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that the Durock Mamba linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mamba has a neutral sound profile with a thocky sound and provides a mild typing experience with a polished feel. On the other hand, the Purple Click offers a resonant sound with a crunchy click and provides an invigorating typing sensation with a stepped feel. Therefore, if you're seeking a switch with a moderate sound and a smooth typing feel, choose the Mamba. If you're looking for a switch with a high-pitched click sound and a more tactile typing experience, the Purple Click is the way to go. Both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch that provides a gliding typing sensation and a rich, creamy auditory experience, the Durock Mamba would be a great choice. It has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which falls in the medium range. The Mamba is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user and whether you plan to use it at home or work. In terms of sound, the Mamba offers a neutral option with a moderate sound profile or a thocky option with a deep and satisfying sound. When it comes to feel, the Mamba provides a mild and polished typing experience, making it approachable for most users.
On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a satisfying click and light keystrokes, the KTT Purple Click would be a perfect choice. It has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is on the lighter side of medium. The Purple Click offers a crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves, or a resonant sound profile with a clean and sharp sound. In terms of feel, the Purple Click provides an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback and a snappy feel. It also falls into the category of stepped switches, offering a mild tactile experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Mamba and the KTT Purple Click boils down to personal preference. Consider the desired bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel that align with your preferences and typing style. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience. So in the end, choose the one that suits your needs and enjoy the satisfying journey of mechanical keyboards.
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