Durock Mamba vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black

Overview

The Durock Mamba and the Gateron Silent Ink Black are both popular mechanical keyboard switches, specifically known for their linear feel. The Mamba switches are often praised for their smooth and gliding typing sensation, providing a pleasant tactile experience. Additionally, users appreciate the rich and creamy auditory experience these switches offer. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black switches are favored for their silent typing capabilities, making them an excellent choice for environments that require quieter typing. They provide a cushion-like feel when bottoming out and produce minimal audio feedback. While these generalities give us a good starting point, let's delve deeper into the specific characteristics of each switch to help you find the best one for your needs.

By the numbers

Durock Mamba Linear

Gateron Silent Ink Black Linear

$6.50

$5.17 per 10

$8.50

$8.35 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Durock Mamba and the Gateron Silent Ink Black both have unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Mamba features a top housing made of a blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE. This blend results in a pleasant and brighter sound, which is not particularly sharp. Similarly, the Silent Ink Black utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for its top housing. This blend creates a relatively high-pitched sound that is not overly sharp but rather described as clacky. In terms of sound, both switches offer a satisfying and unique auditory experience that is distinct from the typical sharpness of other switches.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the Mamba employs a POM material that contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become evident as it influences the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black uses Gateron's proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing as well. This means that the qualities brought by the bottom housing are similar to the top housing, resulting in a pointed and high-pitched yet not excessively sharp sound profile. Both switches provide a thin sound that is often described as clacky, showcasing the impact of the housing material on the overall sound experience.

While the housing materials differ between the top and bottom housings of the switches, the general impact of each housing material remains consistent. Pressing down on either the Mamba or the Silent Ink Black will allow you to feel the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound when you release a key is mainly determined by the top housing material. Therefore, while the housing materials may vary, both switches ensure a well-rounded sound experience by distributing the housing material's characteristics between the top and bottom of the switch. Regardless of these differences, the Mamba and Silent Ink Black provide comparable results in terms of sound, offering users a satisfying and unique auditory experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Mamba and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switches, it is worth noting that the Mamba's actuation force remains unknown, whereas the Silent Ink Black has an actuation force of 60 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Mamba requires 60 grams, which can be classified as medium, while the Silent Ink Black requires 70 grams, which is considered medium-heavy.

Considering the weight of the switches, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Mamba as it allows for longer typing sessions, making it suitable for work or extended gaming periods. On the other hand, for those seeking a more substantial typing feel, the Silent Ink Black's heavier actuation force provides the desired push and feedback.

Although the specific actuation force for the Mamba is unavailable, if both switches happen to have the same actuation force, users can expect similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes. It is important to take into account personal preferences when choosing between these switches, as some may prioritize a lighter touch for extended use, while others may prefer a heavier force for a more tactile typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it is clear that there is a difference in their respective distances. The Mamba has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Silent Ink Black's distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with the Mamba, you will feel a slightly shorter distance compared to the Silent Ink Black. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Silent Ink Black falls into the more traditional range, while the 3.5mm distance of the Mamba is on the shorter side. Gamers, especially, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If quick and responsive keystrokes are important to you, then the Mamba would be the better option. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feel and a deeper travel distance, the Silent Ink Black may be the preferable choice. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and whether you prioritize a shorter or longer travel distance for your typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Durock Mamba switch provides a neutral and thocky experience. The neutral sound profile means it has a moderate volume, making it suitable for various environments, whether it be at home or in a work environment. The thocky characteristic of the Mamba switch adds a deep and satisfying sound when pressing and releasing the keys. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch produces a muted sound. This means it is softer and quieter compared to regular switches, reducing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. With the Silent Ink Black, you can enjoy a more discreet typing experience in noise-sensitive environments. 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 chosen.

When it comes to feel, both the Durock Mamba and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches offer a smooth and polished typing experience. The Mamba switch is described as mild, providing a gentle and approachable typing experience. It falls within a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of overall feel. Additionally, the Mamba switch is polished, which means it has a refined finish that contributes to a sleek typing experience. This smooth and refined finish results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Silent Ink Black switch is silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience. This enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Like the Mamba, the Silent Ink Black switch is also polished, providing a sleek and smooth key travel. Ultimately, both switches prioritize comfort and smoothness in typing.

Considering the available information, the Durock Mamba and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mamba switch delivers a gliding typing sensation and a rich and creamy auditory experience, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black switch prioritizes quieter typing with a cushy and pillow-like bottom-out feel. Both switches offer a polished and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the Mamba and Silent Ink Black switches have their unique qualities, they can provide similar results in terms of smoothness and comfort in typing. It ultimately depends on the individual's preferences and the specific typing environment in which the switches will be used.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Durock Mamba would be a great choice. This switch offers a gliding typing sensation and a rich, creamy auditory experience. It has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in any environment. The Mamba also provides a mild typing experience with a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

On the other hand, if you require a quieter typing experience, the Gateron Silent Ink Black would be the better option. With a medium-heavy bottom out force, these switches offer a cushion-like bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback. The Silent Ink Black has a muted sound profile, which is ideal for environments that require reduced noise output. Additionally, this switch provides a silky smooth typing experience due to its polished finish and enhanced smoothness.

Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Mamba and Gateron Silent Ink Black comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a gliding typing sensation, rich auditory experience, and a neutral sound profile, the Mamba is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value a cushion-like bottom-out feel, minimal audio feedback, and a muted sound profile, the Silent Ink Black is the switch for you. Consider your desired typing experience and the noise level required in your environment to make the best decision.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Mamba Linear

$6.50

$5.17 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Silent Ink Black Linear

$8.50

$8.35 per 10

Learn more