Durock Mamba vs. Gazzew U4Tx

Overview

Are you searching for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch? Look no further than the Durock Mamba and the Gazzew U4Tx. The Mamba, a linear switch, offers a smooth and effortless typing experience with a satisfying auditory sensation. On the other hand, the U4Tx, a tactile switch, combines the best of both worlds by providing a refined sound profile and a sharp, tactile bump with each press. While these general descriptions may pique your interest, let's delve deeper into the unique qualities of each switch so that you can make the best decision for your typing preferences.

By the numbers

Durock Mamba Linear

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$6.50

$5.17 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The Durock Mamba and the Gazzew U4Tx switches both offer unique and pleasant sound profiles, but with some noticeable differences. The Mamba utilizes a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, which provides a slightly brighter sound profile that is not particularly sharp. On the other hand, the U4Tx features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While both top housings offer a desirable sound experience, the Mamba's blend tends to lean towards a brighter tone while the U4Tx brings out a deeper and richer sound.

In terms of the bottom housing, the Mamba incorporates a POM housing that creates a unique and pleasing sound. This sound profile leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. In contrast, the U4Tx features a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, similar to its top housing, which delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While both bottom housings contribute to the overall sound experience, the Mamba's POM housing focuses on providing a more muted and deeper sound, while the U4Tx's proprietary blend continues the trend of producing a rich and deep sound profile.

When comparing the impact of the housings on the switch feel, it's important to note that the bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. Pressing down on either the Mamba or the U4Tx switch will reveal the qualities of their respective bottom housings. However, when it comes to the sound upon releasing a key, the top housing plays a more prominent role. While the Mamba's top housing contributes to a brighter sound when letting go of a key, the U4Tx's blend emphasizes a deep and rich sound during this action. Although the materials differ, both switches offer a satisfying experience when it comes to key release sound, showcasing the unique qualities of their respective top housings.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, we find some similarities and differences. Starting with the actuation force, unfortunately, the specific grams required to trigger a keystroke are unavailable for both switches. However, it can be assumed that they would be similar, resulting in a comparable typing experience.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the Durock Mamba linear switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which falls into the medium range. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it slightly heavier, classified as medium-heavy.

Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer lighter switches may opt for the Durock Mamba, as it allows for longer typing sessions and is suitable for both work and gaming scenarios. However, for individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Gazzew U4Tx would be a better choice.

In summary, while the actuation forces of the Durock Mamba and Gazzew U4Tx are unknown, they are likely to yield similar results. However, the Durock Mamba is lighter in terms of its bottom out force, while the Gazzew U4Tx offers a slightly heavier keystroke, catering to those who prefer a more robust typing experience.

Travel distance

The Durock Mamba linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch have slight differences in their travel distances. The Mamba has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the U4Tx has a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Although the variation is minimal, it can still impact the typing experience. The Mamba's shorter travel distance makes it ideal for gamers or individuals who prioritize faster response times. On the other hand, the U4Tx's slightly longer travel distance may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial and satisfying key press. Both switches offer a departure from the traditional 4.0mm travel distance, catering to users who appreciate shorter or deeper key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Durock Mamba linear switch provides a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and produces a moderate sound when pressed. This makes it suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. However, the Mamba is also described as having a thocky sound, which means it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound similar to a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released.

On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a bassy sound profile. This means that it produces a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the U4Tx is described as muted, meaning it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. This makes it a good choice if you prefer a quieter typing experience.

In terms of feel, the Durock Mamba linear switch offers a mild typing experience. This means that it provides a more gentle typing sensation compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Its qualities stand in a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. Additionally, the Mamba is described as polished, indicating that it has a smooth and refined finish resulting in a sleek typing experience. This could be due to the materials used or factory lubing, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel.

On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a sharp tactile bump. This means that it offers a high feedback intensity with a strong and crisp tactile bump that is distinctly felt with each keypress. If you prefer a switch with a prominent and pronounced tactile feedback, the U4Tx would be a good choice for you.

In conclusion, the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mamba provides a more neutral sound profile with a thocky characteristic, while the U4Tx offers a bassy and muted sound. In terms of feel, the Mamba offers a mild and polished typing experience, while the U4Tx provides a sharp and highly tactile feedback. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches can provide a luxurious typing experience. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also dependent on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. With proper board and keycap selection, you can achieve similar sound and feel results for both switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Durock Mamba would be a great choice. The Mamba switches offer a gliding typing sensation and a rich, creamy auditory experience. They have a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most intents and purposes, and the switch itself has a mild feel that provides a gentle and approachable typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gazzew U4Tx would be a perfect fit. These switches marry the best of both worlds, offering a sharp, satisfying tactile bump while providing a cleaner, refined sound profile. The U4Tx switches have a bassy sound that offers a deeper and richer sound profile, and their sharp tactile bump delivers high feedback intensity. Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Mamba and Gazzew U4Tx will come down to your preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as your desired bottom out force and sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Mamba Linear

$6.50

$5.17 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more