Durock Mamba vs. HMX SU

Overview

When choosing between the Durock Mamba and the HMX SU linear switches, enthusiasts often consider the unique characteristics that each offers. The Durock Mamba switches pay homage to the legendary Kobe Bryant, providing a smooth and gliding typing experience complemented by a rich and creamy auditory feedback that appeals to those who appreciate a "thocky" sound profile. Their build quality and performance make them an excellent choice for users seeking a polished feel in their typing experience. In contrast, the HMX SU switches are distinguished by their full PA12 housing and T5 stem, resulting in a subtly deep sound profile that resonates well without being overpowering. This makes the HMX SU an attractive option for users looking for a switch that strikes a balance between tactile feedback and quiet operation. Both switches bring their own set of advantages to the table, shaping the user experience in distinct ways. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Durock Mamba Linear

HMX SU Linear

$6.50

$5.17 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Mamba and HMX SU switches, it's clear that the two models employ different approaches that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Mamba utilizes a unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its top housing, which results in a brighter sound that retains a pleasant and enjoyable acoustic signature. In contrast, the HMX SU features a traditional nylon top housing that produces a deeper, fuller sound, largely due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. This difference in materials means that the Mamba is likely to deliver a sharper yet still musical character, while the SU emphasizes a more rounded and muted auditory experience.

Looking at the bottom housings, both models showcase different materials yet contribute similarly to the sound they produce. The Mamba's bottom housing is made of POM, known for producing a deep and muted sound profile, thus enhancing the overall acoustic experience by focusing on the richness of low frequencies. Conversely, the HMX SU employs nylon for its bottom housing as well, which, like the top, provides a sound that is fuller and deeper. Despite the differences in materials, both models will offer an enjoyable auditory experience, though the Mamba may lean towards more clarity while the SU remains consistently rounded and warm due to the shared soft properties of nylon.

In terms of performance, the split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a unique blending of acoustic qualities. With the Durock Mamba's combination of a brighter-sounding top housing and a muted, deep bottom, it offers a balanced experience with a distinctive high-end clarity. Conversely, the HMX SU’s consistent use of nylon in both the top and bottom housing provides a cohesive sound profile, emphasizing a fuller, warmer auditory experience. Thus, while the materials differ, they each play an integral role in enhancing the typing experience, ensuring users will appreciate the blend of tactile feedback and sound, whether they choose the Mamba or the SU.

Weight

When comparing the Durock Mamba linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Mamba has an unspecified actuation force but features a bottom out force of 60 grams, which can be considered medium, offering a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the HMX SU has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly lower bottom out force of 50 grams. This difference indicates that the HMX SU switch is better suited for those who prefer a lighter feel, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Overall, while the Mamba leans towards a heavier, more tactile experience, the HMX SU provides a softer touch, catering to users who enjoy a less strenuous keystroke.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Mamba and the HMX SU linear switches, we find that the Mamba has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the SU measures slightly longer at 3.6 mm. This makes the Mamba the shorter of the two switches. For users who prefer more responsive key presses, the Mamba's shorter travel distance may provide that quicker actuation, while the SU, with its longer travel distance, might offer a more substantial feel for those who appreciate a deeper press. Both switches, being very close in travel distance, will yield similar results in terms of general performance, but the subtle difference could cater to different user preferences regarding responsiveness versus depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Durock Mamba linear switch delivers a neutral and thocky auditory experience. The neutral quality means that it strikes a balance between volume and presence, making it suitable for various settings, whether for work, gaming, or casual typing. The thocky character adds a deep, rich sound with a satisfying "thud" sensation upon actuation, creating an engaging auditory feedback that many users appreciate. In contrast, the sound profile of the HMX SU linear switch remains largely unexplored in the provided information, which leaves it undetermined how it would compare to the Mamba in terms of auditory experience.

In terms of feel, the Mamba linear switch offers a mild typing experience, ensuring that the actuation is gentle and approachable. This quality makes it particularly favorable for users who may be new to mechanical keyboards, as it avoids any overwhelming or stark characteristics. Additionally, the polished nature of the Mamba switch implies a refined, smooth action, leading to pleasant key travel with minimal friction—ideal for prolonged typing sessions. The characteristics of the HMX SU linear switch are not detailed, so it is unclear how its feel compares to that of the Mamba.

Overall, while the Durock Mamba linear switch shines in both sound and feel with its balanced profile and inviting tactile experience, the unknown aspects of the HMX SU linear switch leave room for speculation. If the SU switch provides a similarly refined and enjoyable typing experience, users could potentially enjoy comparable results. Ultimately, those looking for a new switch may find the Mamba particularly enticing, but until more details about the SU are revealed, a direct comparison remains incomplete.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Durock Mamba linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. If you enjoy a balanced typing experience with a slightly firmer bottom-out force and appreciate a mix of neutrality and satisfying "thock" sounds, then the Mamba switch is likely your best bet; it offers a creamy auditory experience and a polished feel that many find inviting for both work and leisurely typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with quicker actuation, the SU switch, with its 50 grams of bottom-out force, would serve you well, particularly if you appreciate a subtle sound profile without the embellishments of deeper tones. The choosing of switches also reflects your intended use—if you're looking for a refined experience suitable for diverse environments, the Mamba leans toward that versatility, while the SU may be perfect for those who enjoy a lightweight, lower-force typing experience. Ultimately, both offer unique benefits that cater to different typing styles and preferences, so consider what aspects of a switch matter most to you as you make your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Mamba Linear

$6.50

$5.17 per 10

Learn more

HMX SU Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more