Durock Mamba vs. Kailh Sage

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Mamba and the Kailh Sage. The Mamba is a linear switch, known for its smooth typing experience and satisfying sound. On the other hand, the Sage is a clicky switch, offering a distinct clicking sensation with a heavy weight. The choice between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a gliding typing sensation and a rich auditory experience, the Mamba's neutral and mild characteristics, accompanied by its thocky and polished nature, may be the ideal choice for you. On the contrary, if you enjoy a more invigorating and sharp typing experience, the Sage's crunchy and sharp attributes, combined with its distinct clickiness, might be more appealing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your specific needs.

By the numbers

Durock Mamba Linear

Kailh Sage Clicky

$6.50

$5.17 per 10

$6.25 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Durock Mamba and the Kailh Sage differ significantly in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Mamba features a unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its top housing, resulting in a pleasant, bright sound profile that is not sharp. In contrast, the Sage utilizes a polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting enthusiasts. In terms of aesthetics, the Mamba's blend of materials offers a different visual appeal compared to the clear polycarbonate of the Sage.

Moving to the bottom housing, the Mamba utilizes POM, which contributes to a deeper and relatively muted sound profile. This material choice creates a uniquely pleasing typing experience. Conversely, the Sage uses a nylon bottom housing, known for its classic switch housing characteristics. The nylon material absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The choice between POM and nylon in the bottom housings of these two switches provides distinct sound qualities, with Mamba emphasizing depth and muteness, while the Sage focuses on a fuller sound with more resonance.

When both top and bottom housings are different, their respective qualities affect different aspects of the typing experience. For example, pressing down on a switch will make the qualities of the bottom housing more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing's impact is more notable when releasing a key, affecting the sound produced. While the Durock Mamba and Kailh Sage differ in their housing materials, users can expect similar results in terms of the unique sound profiles both switches offer, albeit with some variations in tonality and resonance based on the specific materials used in each housing.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is important to consider their weights. While the actuation force is unavailable for both switches, the Mamba has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium, while the Sage has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, which is classified as medium-heavy.

Weight is a crucial factor for individuals with different preferences in typing experiences. Those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the Mamba as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. Conversely, individuals who desire a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience might prefer the Sage with its heavier bottom out force.

Although the actuation force for both switches is unknown, the comparison of their bottom out forces highlights the differences in their overall weights. Ultimately, the Mamba offers a lighter typing experience, while the Sage provides a heavier and more forceful keystroke. It should be noted that, if the actuation forces were to be the same or similar, users may expect similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke for both switches.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Durock Mamba linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Kailh Sage clicky switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become popular in recent years. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as they allow for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Durock Mamba with its slightly shorter travel distance may be the better choice for you. However, some individuals find short travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a more substantial key press and a sense of depth, you may lean towards the Kailh Sage switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Durock Mamba linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This means that it produces a satisfying sound when pressed, resembling a deep "thud" or a soft "knock". On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch produces a distinct clicky sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you are looking for a neutral and satisfying sound experience, the Mamba will deliver, while the Sage offers a unique and crunchy clicky sound.

Moving on to feel, the Durock Mamba linear switch provides a mild typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. This results in a gentle and approachable typing sensation, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Kailh Sage clicky switch offers an invigorating and sharp tactile feel. It provides pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. With each keypress, the strong and crisp tactile bump of the Sage switch can be distinctly felt. While the Mamba offers a more gentle and polished typing experience, the Sage provides a more immersive and intense typing sensation.

In conclusion, the Durock Mamba linear switch is known for its gliding typing sensation and rich and creamy auditory experience. Its sound is characterized as neutral with a thocky profile, and it provides a mild and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch offers a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavy weight and refreshingly sharp clickiness. It produces a crunchy sound and provides an invigorating and sharp tactile feel. Depending on the preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience.

Conclusion

In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a smooth and creamy typing experience with a moderate actuation force, the Mamba would be a great choice. Its gliding typing sensation and rich auditory experience make it enjoyable to type on. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile or a deep "thocky" sound, the Mamba is a suitable option.

On the other hand, if you enjoy a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, the Sage switch would be more suitable for you. The Sage offers an invigorating and sharp tactile feel, providing a snappy and reactive typing sensation. The satisfying clickiness of the Sage switch, described as stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves, adds an extra level of tactile feedback to your typing experience.

Ultimately, your choice between the Mamba and the Sage will depend on whether you prefer a linear switch or a clicky switch, as well as your desired level of actuation force and typing sound. Both switches have their unique qualities, and it's important to consider your personal preferences when making a decision.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Mamba Linear

$6.50

$5.17 per 10

Learn more

Kailh Sage Clicky

$6.25 per 10

Learn more