Durock Mamba vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Durock Mamba and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Durock Mamba and the SP-Star RedBlue are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct qualities for keyboard enthusiasts. The Mamba, a linear switch, is best known for its tribute to Kobe Bryant and its smooth typing experience. Typing with the Mamba switches provides a gliding sensation and a rich, creamy sound. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished', the Mamba switches offer a balanced and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the RedBlue switches are also linear and are particularly suited for those who prefer a medium-light typing experience. They provide a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished', the RedBlue switches offer a unique and pleasant typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Extended long spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Durock Mamba and the SP-Star RedBlue have contrasting housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The Mamba's top housing is made of a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend, resulting in a pleasant and slightly brighter sound. In comparison, the RedBlue features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate gives the RedBlue a more clear and resonant sound profile, especially when combined with RGB lighting. While both switches offer a distinct sound experience, the Mamba's blend produces a warmer tone while the RedBlue's polycarbonate housing emphasizes clarity and brightness.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Mamba utilizes a POM material, resulting in a deeper and relatively more muted sound. On the other hand, the RedBlue features a polycarbonate bottom housing. Similar to the top housing, polycarbonate brings a sharper and crisper sound profile to the switch's bottom-out sound and feel. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the bottom housing enhances the overall resonant qualities of the switch. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Mamba providing a deeper and more reserved sound, while the RedBlue delivers a sharper and more pronounced bottom-out sound with enhanced resonance.
However, when considering the overall sound experience of pressing and releasing a key, the top and bottom housings play specific roles. The characteristics of the bottom housing are more noticeable when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Mamba and RedBlue have different housing materials for the top and bottom, the qualities of each material are experienced at different moments during the key press. Overall, both switches offer their own distinct sound profiles, providing users with varied options depending on their preferences and requirements.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it is important to note that the specific values for the actuation force are not available for both switches. However, considering the information given, we can still draw some comparisons.
In terms of weight, the Mamba switch is known to have a bottom out force of 60 grams, which can be considered medium in terms of heaviness. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 57 grams, which can be classified as medium-light.
The actuation force, which measures the force required to trigger a keystroke, is not specified for either switch. Without this information, we cannot make a direct comparison between the actuation forces of the two switches.
In terms of preferences, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time may opt for switches with lower bottom out forces, such as the RedBlue switch. This lighter force can be beneficial for tasks like typing at work or engaging in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger and more substantial typing experience may lean towards switches with heavier forces.
Overall, while the actuation forces of the Durock Mamba and SP-Star RedBlue switches are not specified, we can still compare their bottom out forces. The Mamba switch is slightly heavier, with a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the RedBlue switch is slightly lighter at 57 grams. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, we can see that there is a difference in their distances. The Mamba has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the RedBlue has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Although both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more prevalent in recent times, the RedBlue is the longer option. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Mamba with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, for those who enjoy a more substantial depth in their key presses, the RedBlue switch with its longer travel distance may be the preferred choice. It is important to consider personal preferences and how the travel distance affects the overall typing or gaming experience before making a decision.
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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 rich and creamy auditory experience. It falls under both the neutral and thocky descriptors, meaning it has a moderate sound profile with a deep and satisfying tone when pressed. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. It falls under the neutral and thocky descriptors as well, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches provide a satisfying sound experience, but the Mamba has a creamier tone while the RedBlue has a higher pitch.
In terms of feel, both the Mamba and RedBlue switches offer a mild typing experience. This means that they provide a gentle and approachable feel during typing. Additionally, both switches have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. The materials used and potential factory lubing contribute to reduced friction and smooth key travel for both the Mamba and RedBlue switches. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and sleek typing feel.
Taking all the available information into account, the Durock Mamba linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offer similar subjective qualities. While the Mamba provides a gliding typing sensation and a rich and creamy auditory experience, the RedBlue offers a medium-light typing experience with a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. Both switches have a mild feel with a polished finish, ensuring a comfortable typing experience with reduced friction. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches comes down to personal preference for sound characteristics and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force, the SP-Star RedBlue switch would be a great choice. These switches are particularly suited for those who prefer a medium-light typing experience and produce a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. They offer a gentle typing experience that is approachable for most users, with a safe and middle-ground feel. Additionally, the RedBlue switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a rich auditory experience, the Durock Mamba linear switch would be ideal. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, these switches provide a gliding typing sensation and a creamy sound profile. The Mamba switches are known for their tribute to Kobe Bryant and are suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you use them at home or work. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
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