Durock Mamba vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Durock Mamba and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, it's important to consider the specific attributes of each option to find the best fit for your typing needs. In this comparison, we will take a closer look at two popular switches: the Durock Mamba and the SP-Star Duck. The Mamba switches are linear switches that offer a smooth and effortless typing experience, reminiscent of the gliding sensation. The auditory aspect is equally delightful, with a rich and creamy sound profile. On the other hand, the Duck switches provide a more subtle tactile feedback, perfect for those who prefer a gentler typing experience. The sound produced by the Duck switches is clean and crispy. As you can see, both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make an informed decision about the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
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 Duck have different housing materials for both the top and bottom housings. The Mamba's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans towards the brighter side. In contrast, the Duck's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Duck's top housing is also advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, both the Mamba and the Duck offer unique and pleasing sound profiles in their respective top housings.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Mamba's POM bottom housing produces a sound profile on the deeper side and is relatively more muted. On the other hand, the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This distinction can be attributed to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, leading to a clearer and more resonant sound. While POM offers a deeper and more muted sound experience in the Mamba, the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing emphasizes a brighter and crisper sound profile.
Overall, the differences in housing materials result in distinct sound profiles for the Durock Mamba and the SP-Star Duck. The blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in the Mamba's top housing provides a pleasant and moderately bright sound, while the polycarbonate top housing in the Duck offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Similarly, the Mamba's POM bottom housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Duck creates a crisper and sharper sound. Despite their differences, both housing materials contribute to unique and pleasing sound experiences in their respective switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is important to note that the specific actuation force for both switches is unavailable. However, the Mamba has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium, whereas the Duck has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 58 grams, also classified as medium.
Weight plays a significant role in switch selection, as it can greatly impact typing comfort and endurance. Individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for switches with lower actuation and bottom out forces, as this allows for longer typing periods without fatigue. In this case, both the Mamba and Duck switches offer similar results, as their medium bottom out forces provide a balanced typing feel.
On the other hand, some users may desire a stronger tactile feedback and a more substantial typing experience. For those individuals, switches with heavier forces are recommended. While the actuation forces are unknown for both the Mamba and Duck switches, it can be assumed that the actuation force and overall typing experience of the Mamba may be heavier since it has a slightly higher bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Duck's 58 grams.
In summary, the Durock Mamba linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch both offer medium bottom out forces, providing a balanced typing experience. However, the Mamba switch may have a heavier actuation force compared to the Duck, making it more suitable for individuals seeking a stronger push feel during typing. Ultimately, personal preference and typing style should dictate the choice between these two switches.
Travel distance
The Durock Mamba linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Duck switch is longer compared to the Mamba switch. The 3.5 mm travel distance of the Mamba switch falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a popular choice among gamers who prefer faster response times. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Duck switch is a more traditional depth and may be preferred by those who value a deeper and more substantial key press. In summary, while the Mamba switch offers a shorter travel distance for quicker responsiveness, the Duck switch provides a longer travel distance for a more satisfying key press experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired feel while typing or gaming.
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 Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Mamba boasts a rich and creamy auditory experience. This indicates that the switch produces a pleasing and smooth sound when pressed and released. It can be compared to a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" sound, giving it a thocky sound profile. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck is described as having a clean and crispy sound profile. While the specific qualities of the sound are not mentioned, it can be inferred that the Duck switch offers a neutral and moderate sound experience, suitable for various typing situations. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Mamba provides a gliding typing sensation. This suggests that the switch offers a smooth and effortless keystroke experience. The Mamba is characterized as a mild switch, which means it offers a gentle typing experience without overly pronounced characteristics. Additionally, it is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and a sleek typing experience. Similarly, the SP-Star Duck offers a mild tactile typing experience with a gentle tactility. The switch is also described as buttery, suggesting that it provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Like the Mamba, the Duck switch is also characterized as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Based on the available information, both the Durock Mamba and the SP-Star Duck switches offer pleasant and comfortable typing experiences. The Mamba excels in providing a gliding typing sensation with a rich and creamy sound profile. It is suitable for those who appreciate a neutral switch with a moderate actuation force. Similarly, the Duck switch offers a gentle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile. It is also suitable for a wide range of users due to its neutral characteristics. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. While they may differ slightly in sound and feel, the overall typing experience of both switches is likely to be similar and enjoyable.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you're looking for a linear switch with a gliding typing sensation and a rich auditory experience, the Durock Mamba is the perfect choice for you. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a medium actuation force requirement. The Mamba is best suited for those who prefer a neutral sound profile, with options for both a moderate sound or a deep, satisfying "thocky" sound. Additionally, the Mamba provides a mild typing experience, with a polished finish that ensures smooth and refined key travel.
On the other hand, if you desire a more subtle tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Duck is an excellent option. With a bottom out force of 58 grams, the Duck offers a similar medium actuation force requirement. The Duck is known for its clean and crispy sound profile, providing a neutral sound suitable for various purposes. In terms of feel, the Duck offers a mild typing experience with a buttery smooth and fluid keystroke sensation. Like the Mamba, the Duck also features a polished finish for reduced friction and a sleek typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Mamba and SP-Star Duck will come down to personal preference. If you prefer linear switches with a gliding typing sensation, rich auditory experience, and options for a deep, satisfying sound, the Mamba is the way to go. On the other hand, if you crave a more subtle tactile typing experience with clean and crispy sound, along with a buttery smooth keystroke sensation, the Duck may be the better choice for you.
Consider your own typing preferences, whether you prioritize sound or feel, and choose the switch that aligns with your desired typing experience. Happy typing!
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