Durock Mamba vs. Gateron Type L

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Mamba and Gateron Type L both stand out as excellent choices, each offering their own unique features and characteristics. The Durock Mamba is a linear switch that provides a smooth typing experience with a gliding sensation and a rich auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L, also a linear switch, is known for being the lightest in its series, requiring only 45g to bottom out, and offers a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. While the Mamba is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Polished', the Type L is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Subdued', 'Feathery', 'Easy-to-press'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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

Gateron Type L Linear

$6.50

$5.17 per 10

$4.70 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Durock Mamba and the Gateron Type L switches offer unique characteristics that affect the sound profiles of each switch. The Mamba features a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, which provides a pleasant and bright sound profile. In contrast, the Type L's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and produces a rounder tone. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles, the Mamba's top housing leans towards a brighter tone compared to the Type L's deeper sound.

Furthermore, the bottom housing materials of the Mamba and Type L switches also contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Mamba's POM bottom housing results in a deeper and relatively muted sound profile, adding a unique touch to the switch's overall acoustics. On the other hand, the Type L's nylon bottom housing enhances the switch's sound with a fuller and deeper tone, attributed to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon. Both switches showcase how different housing materials can affect the sound produced during typing, offering a range of options for keyboard enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience.

Overall, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in the Durock Mamba and Gateron Type L switches plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound experience of each switch. While the Mamba's unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE top housing provides a brighter sound profile, the Type L's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller tone. Additionally, the bottom housing materials of POM in the Mamba and nylon in the Type L further contribute to the switches' sound profiles, showcasing how different materials can impact the overall typing experience. Regardless of the differences between the two switches, both offer distinct sound profiles that cater to varying preferences in keyboard acoustics.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is clear that the Type L is lighter in both aspects. The Mamba has an actuation force of None grams, making it unknown, while the Type L has an actuation force of 38 grams, making it lighter in terms of triggering a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Mamba requires 60 grams, which is medium, while the Type L only requires 45 grams, making it lighter for full key presses. This difference in weights can impact the typing experience for users, with lighter switches allowing for longer typing sessions and heavier switches providing more substantial feedback. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required for key actuation.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Durock Mamba linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Type L linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Mamba features a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those seeking a quicker response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Type L offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to individuals who prefer a more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Type L being on the longer side. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, both the Durock Mamba and Gateron Type L switches are categorized as having a neutral sound profile, making them versatile options suitable for various typing environments. The Mamba switch offers a thocky sound, delivering a deep and satisfying auditory experience, while the Type L switch produces a subdued sound, offering a more subtle and dampened sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.

When it comes to feel, the Durock Mamba switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and refined feel during use. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal exertion and providing a comfortable typing experience with reduced finger fatigue. Both switches offer unique tactile sensations that cater to different typing styles and preferences, making them suitable for a variety of users.

Overall, the Durock Mamba and Gateron Type L linear switches each bring their own strengths to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Mamba switch offers a thocky sound and a mild, polished typing experience, the Type L switch provides a subdued sound and a feathery, easy-to-press feel. Depending on whether you prefer a deeper auditory experience or a lighter, effortless typing feel, either switch could be a suitable option for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and can deliver similar results depending on individual preferences and setup configurations.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a more pronounced typing experience with a thocky sound profile, the Mamba switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more subdued sound profile with feathery and easy-to-press characteristics, the Type L switch would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what typing experience you find most comfortable and enjoyable.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Mamba Linear

$6.50

$5.17 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Type L Linear

$4.70 per 10

Learn more