Durock Mamba vs. TTC Silent Red

Overview

If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch and are torn between the Durock Mamba and the TTC Silent Red, you're in luck! These two linear switches have their own unique features and advantages that may sway your decision. The Mamba switches are best known for their gliding typing sensation and rich, creamy auditory experience. They are categorized as neutral, mild, thocky, and polished. On the other hand, the Silent Reds are perfect for those seeking a smooth and seamless typing experience without all the noise. With a muted sound profile, they are ideal for office or shared living space use. These switches have a smooth, consistent feel from top to bottom, and even offer a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Durock Mamba Linear

TTC Silent Red Linear

$6.50

$5.17 per 10

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Durock Mamba and the TTC Silent Red differ significantly, leading to distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Mamba's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a pleasant and bright sound profile that is not particularly sharp. This unique blend creates an enjoyable typing experience with a softer feel when releasing keys. In contrast, the Silent Red's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for users who prioritize a more distinct auditory feedback.

Moving to the bottom housing, the Mamba's POM bottom housing contributes to an incredibly pleasing sound characterized by deeper tones and a muted quality. Its softer nature absorbs less sound, resulting in a relatively louder typing experience. Conversely, the Silent Red's nylon bottom housing, a classic switch housing material, elicits a fuller sound profile that is deeper and rounder. The nylon material's ability to absorb more sound creates a duller and softer typing sound, appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing experience.

While the top and bottom housings of the Durock Mamba and TTC Silent Red vary, it's important to note that their qualities are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the characteristics of the bottom housing come into play, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing material in each switch can significantly impact the overall typing experience, allowing users to tailor their keyboard based on their preferences.

Overall, the Durock Mamba and TTC Silent Red offer distinct housing material options that cater to different user preferences. Whether you prioritize a brighter sound profile with a softer feel on release, as offered by the Mamba's unique Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, or a sharper and crisper sound with a clear resonance, found in the Silent Red's polycarbonate top housing, both switches have their merits. Additionally, the Mamba's POM bottom housing provides deeper tones and a muted sound, whereas the Silent Red's nylon bottom housing offers a fuller and rounder sound. Understanding these differences in housing materials allows users to select the switch that aligns with their desired typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, there are both similarities and differences to consider. In terms of actuation force, the Mamba's exact measurement is unavailable, while the Silent Red requires 45 grams of force. Both switches fall into the category of medium actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Mamba requires 60 grams, which is again in the medium range, while the Silent Red requires a slightly heavier 63.5 grams, putting it in the medium-heavy range.

Weight is an important factor to consider when selecting a switch, as it can impact typing comfort and endurance. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mamba's unknown actuation force may provide similar results as the Silent Red's 45 grams, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial typing feel may opt for the heavier actuation force of the Silent Red, as it requires more force to trigger each keystroke and provides a stronger push. This can be preferred for a more satisfying and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Durock Mamba linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In terms of comparison, the Mamba has a slightly shorter travel distance than the Silent Red. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them popular among gamers who value quicker response times. However, if you prefer a more substantial and deeper key press, the Silent Red with its longer travel distance may be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and prioritizing either responsiveness or a more pronounced key press. Regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect similar results as they both offer relatively short travel distances compared to the more traditional 4.0 mm or shallower 3.0 mm options.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Durock Mamba and the TTC Silent Red switches offer different experiences. The Mamba switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, meaning it produces a moderate sound that is suitable for various purposes and environments. It has a rich and creamy auditory experience, reminiscent of a deep "thud" or soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch has a muted sound profile. It is specifically designed to minimize noise and produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. If you prefer a more neutral and satisfying sound experience, the Mamba switch would be a suitable choice. If you prioritize a quieter typing experience, the Silent Reds would be the way to go.

In terms of feel, both switches offer a mild and approachable typing experience. The Mamba switch is described as providing a gliding typing sensation, contributing to a smooth and refined typing experience. It falls within the safe, middle-ground zone of mechanical keyboard switches. Additionally, the Mamba switch is also described as having a polished finish, which results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Silent Red switch is also characterized by a gentle typing experience and a polished finish. It offers a buttery, smooth, and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Both switches provide a comfortable and pleasant typing experience, ensuring maximum comfort.

In conclusion, the Durock Mamba and TTC Silent Red switches have their own subjective qualities that cater to different preferences. The Mamba switch is known for its rich and creamy auditory experience and gliding typing sensation. It has a neutral sound profile and offers a mild and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch excels in providing a quiet typing experience, making it ideal for office or shared living spaces. It has a muted sound profile and offers a buttery and polished typing experience. Depending on whether you prioritize sound or quietness, both switches offer similar qualities in terms of their mild and polished feel. Ultimately, it is important to consider your individual preferences and requirements when selecting the perfect switch for your mechanical keyboard.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a gliding typing sensation, the Durock Mamba switches are a great choice. They offer a rich and creamy auditory experience and are suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you plan to use them at home or work. Additionally, the Mamba switches have a neutral or thocky sound profile, which can provide a satisfying typing experience.

On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and seamless typing experience without the noise, the TTC Silent Red switches are the perfect option. With a slightly heavier bottom out force, these switches offer a muted sound profile that minimizes noise, making them ideal for office or shared living space use. The Silent Red switches provide a consistent and buttery typing feel, with a padded bottom-out for maximum comfort. They also have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, the choice between the Durock Mamba and TTC Silent Red switches ultimately depends on your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a rich and satisfying typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Mamba switches are a great option. However, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience and a buttery smooth feel, the Silent Red switches are the way to go. Consider your environment and personal preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Mamba Linear

$6.50

$5.17 per 10

Learn more

TTC Silent Red Linear

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn more