Durock Mamba vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Durock Mamba and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Mamba and the Gateron Type A mechanical keyboard switches, both offer a linear typing experience with their own distinct characteristics. The Mamba is praised for its tribute to Kobe Bryant and delivers a smooth, gliding typing sensation accompanied by a rich and creamy auditory experience. On the other hand, the Type A from Gateron is a part of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" series, offering a unique travel distance and factory lubing techniques for a medium-weight typing experience with a deeper sound signature. While the Mamba is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Polished', the Type A is labeled as 'Neutral' and 'Subdued'. Each switch has its own merits, catering to different preferences, and needs when it comes to typing feel and sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Extended long spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Mamba and the Gateron Type A switches both offer unique sound profiles, with the Mamba's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend providing a slightly brighter sound compared to the deeper and fuller sound of the Type A's nylon material. The Mamba's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Type A's nylon bottom housing also adds to the fuller sound experience. Despite these differences, both switches provide a pleasant typing experience with their respective housing materials.
In terms of sound profiles, the Durock Mamba's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE creates a sound that is not particularly sharp but leans towards the brighter side, while the Gateron Type A's nylon material elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The Mamba's POM bottom housing further enhances the deeper sound profile, while the Type A's nylon bottom housing absorbs sound to create a duller and rounder tone. Overall, both switches offer unique auditory experiences based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences in sound when typing.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the typing experience, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings play distinct roles. The bottom housing contributes more to the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, the Durock Mamba and Gateron Type A switches deliver a satisfying typing experience, with their housing materials each contributing to a nuanced sound profile that enhances the overall user experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, we can see some notable differences. The Durock Mamba has an actuation force of None grams, while the Gateron Type A has an actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the Gateron Type A requires a slightly higher amount of force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Durock Mamba. In terms of bottom out force, the Durock Mamba has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Gateron Type A's 55 grams. Overall, the Durock Mamba is heavier in terms of bottom out force, while the Gateron Type A is heavier in terms of actuation force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gateron Type A may be more suitable, while those who prefer a slightly heavier keystroke may lean towards the Durock Mamba. Both switches offer a medium to medium-light typing experience, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall feel.
Travel distance
The Durock Mamba linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Gateron Type A linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Mamba offers a slightly quicker key press response compared to the Type A. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Mamba due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Type A switch provides a bit more depth to each key press, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feeling when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
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 Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 per 10 switches.
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, both the Durock Mamba and Gateron Type A switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of users and environments. However, the Mamba provides a thocky sound experience, with deep and satisfying tones, while the Type A offers a more subdued sound, producing a dampened and subtle sound signature. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the overall sound profile desired, with the Mamba delivering a richer auditory experience compared to the Type A.
Moving on to the feel, the Durock Mamba switches are described as having a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the switches are polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and sleek key travel. On the other hand, information about the feel of the Gateron Type A switches is unknown. Based on the available information, the Mamba switches would offer a more polished and refined typing feel compared to the Type A switches.
In conclusion, both the Durock Mamba and Gateron Type A linear switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Mamba offers a thocky sound profile and a polished typing experience, the Type A provides a more subdued sound and an unknown typing feel. Depending on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your mechanical keyboard switches, you can expect a similar level of quality and performance from both switches, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a typing experience that feels smooth and gliding with a rich auditory experience, the Mamba may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a lighter bottom out force and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper side of the spectrum, the Type A could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound, as both switches offer a great linear typing experience.
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