Durock Mamba vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Durock Mamba and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Durock Mamba and SP-Star Yanyu are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique advantages for different preferences. The Mamba switches, inspired by the legendary Kobe Bryant, provide a sublime typing experience with a gliding sensation and a rich, creamy sound. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished', the Mamba switches are an excellent choice for those who enjoy a smooth and satisfying keystroke. On the other hand, the Yanyu switches are designed for individuals seeking a delicate typing experience or those who engage in long typing sessions. With its material blend, the Yanyu switches offer a crisp sound profile that adds a sense of satisfaction to every keystroke. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished', the Yanyu switches cater to those who value a refined typing experience. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Extended long spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Mamba and the SP-Star Yanyu have many similarities. Both switches feature a blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for their top housings, resulting in a unique sound profile. The sound produced by these top housings is described as pleasant, not overly sharp, but slightly brighter. This suggests that users of both switches can expect a similar auditory experience when typing.
However, the bottom housings of these switches differ. The Mamba utilizes POM for its bottom housing, which creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Yanyu employs a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend for its bottom housing, resulting in a sound profile that is also pleasant but leans towards being slightly brighter. This means that the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches will differ, with the Mamba delivering a deeper and more subdued experience compared to the Yanyu.
When it comes to pressing down on the switches, the qualities of the bottom housing become more evident. The bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that users will notice the differences in sound and tactile feedback more when physically pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the top housing material will have a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key, providing a distinct auditory experience upon key release.
Overall, while the top housings of the Durock Mamba and the SP-Star Yanyu share the same blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE, their bottom housings differ, resulting in variations in sound and tactile feedback. Users can expect a unique sound profile from both switches, but the Mamba may offer a deeper and more muted experience due to its POM bottom housing, while the Yanyu may have a slightly brighter bottom-out sound due to its Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, there are noticeable differences between the two. The actuation force of both switches is unknown, making it difficult to make direct comparisons in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, the Mamba has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which can be considered medium, whereas the Yanyu has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams.
Considering weight as a factor, individuals who prefer a lighter switch may lean towards the Yanyu as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing or extended gaming sessions. The lighter bottom out force provides a more effortless typing experience, reducing fatigue over time. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing feel might find the Mamba more suitable. With its medium bottom out force, it offers a stronger push and a satisfying tactile response for a more immersive typing experience.
In summary, while the actuation force for both switches remains unknown, the Durock Mamba offers a heavier bottom out force compared to the lighter bottom out force provided by the SP-Star Yanyu. These differences in force can impact typing comfort and the overall feel of the switch, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for typing style and duration of use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it becomes clear that they have different distances. The Mamba has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Yanyu has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Yanyu has the longer travel distance compared to the Mamba. This means that when pressing down on a key with the Yanyu switch, you will feel a slightly greater distance traveled compared to the Mamba switch. However, it's important to note that both distances fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0mm being the most common and 3.0mm being the more shallow option. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of 3.5mm offered by the Mamba switch as it can result in faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Yanyu switch with its longer travel distance of 4 mm. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of keyboard responsiveness.
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 Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu 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
When it comes to sound, both the Durock Mamba and the SP-Star Yanyu switches have a neutral sound profile. This means that they produce a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced typist, and whether you're using them at home or in a work environment. Additionally, both switches are described as having a thocky sound, which means they produce a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Think of a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the keys are pressed and released. It's important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Durock Mamba and the SP-Star Yanyu switches offer a mild typing experience. This means that they provide a gentle and approachable feel that is suitable for most typists. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, which means they have a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Yanyu switch is also described as feathery, which means it is exceptionally light to press and requires little exertion from your fingers. This makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions, such as for gaming, school, or work. The Yanyu switch is also described as subtle, which means it has a gentle resistance but still maintains a light typing feel. Moreover, the sound signature of the Yanyu switch will not be resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces.
Taking into account all the available information, the Durock Mamba and the SP-Star Yanyu switches share similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches have a neutral sound profile with a thocky sound, and both provide a mild typing experience with a polished finish for smooth key travel. However, the Yanyu switch offers an added feathery feel, which reduces finger fatigue and is suitable for extended typing sessions, as well as a subtle typing feel that is suitable for shared spaces. Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch for typing, both the Durock Mamba and the SP-Star Yanyu switches will provide similar results, but the Yanyu switch offers the additional benefits of a feathery feel and a subtle sound signature.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a gliding typing sensation, the Durock Mamba switch would be a great choice. Its rich and creamy auditory experience adds to the overall typing satisfaction. Additionally, the Mamba offers a neutral and thocky sound profile, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, as well as for use at home or work. The Mamba also provides a mild and polished typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more delicate typing experience, the SP-Star Yanyu switch would be the better option. Its material blend gives it a crisp sound profile, perfect for extended typing sessions or for those who prefer a feathery or subtle typing feel. The Yanyu switch also offers a mild and polished experience, with reduced finger fatigue and a gentle resistance. Its sound signature is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Mamba and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switches depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. Consider factors such as bottom out force, typing sensation, sound profile, and overall feel to make an informed decision. Whether you prioritize a medium or light bottom out force, a gliding or delicate typing sensation, or a rich or crisp sound profile, both switches offer qualities that may cater to your specific requirements.
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