Durock Mamba vs. Outemu Yellow Silver

Overview

The Durock Mamba and the Outemu Yellow Silver are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, but they offer unique features and characteristics that set them apart. The Mamba switches are widely recognized for their tribute to Kobe Bryant and provide a satisfying typing experience with a smooth gliding sensation and a rich and creamy auditory feedback. Categorized as neutral, mild, thocky, and polished, these switches are excellent for users who appreciate a balanced and refined feel while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switches, known for producing top-notch switches, are designed with a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile. These switches are particularly favored by gamers and typists who prioritize speediness and responsiveness. Categorized as neutral, the Yellow Silver switches offer a straightforward and consistent feel for those seeking a straightforward and precise typing experience. However, let's dive deeper into the individual features and characteristics of each switch to help you make the best decision for your specific needs and preferences.

By the numbers

Durock Mamba Linear

Outemu Yellow Silver Linear

$6.50

$5.17 per 10

$3.40 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Durock Mamba and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches differ significantly in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Mamba utilizes a unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its top housing, resulting in a pleasant and brighter sound profile. In contrast, the Yellow Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Furthermore, the translucency of the polycarbonate housing makes it ideal for RGB lighting enthusiasts. Despite the differences, both switches offer distinct sound experiences that are pleasing in their own ways.

When it comes to the bottom housing, the Mamba uses POM, while the Yellow Silver utilizes nylon. The POM bottom housing of the Mamba produces a deeper and relatively muted sound profile. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Yellow Silver provides a deeper and fuller sound. The main difference lies in the softness of the plastics used, with nylon absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder effect compared to POM. This contrasting sound experience adds a unique dimension to each switch and allows users to choose according to their personal preferences.

It is important to note that the impact of the housing materials differs depending on the specific area of the switch. When pressing down on a key, the qualities of the bottom housing are more noticeable, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when letting go of a key, the top housing plays a more significant role in determining the sound. Both the Mamba and the Yellow Silver offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound release, providing users with a varied and immersive typing experience. Therefore, regardless of the differences, users can expect similar results in terms of the overall quality and satisfaction of the typing experience with these switches.

Weight

When comparing the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The actuation force of the Mamba is unfortunately unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare it to the Yellow Silver's 45-gram actuation force. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Mamba requires 60 grams of force, which can be considered medium. In contrast, the Yellow Silver has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light.

Considering weight as a factor, the Mamba would be the heavier option in terms of bottom out force. This can provide a stronger push feel, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver's slightly lighter bottom out force may be more desirable for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing them to type for longer periods of time without fatigue.

Overall, while the specifics of the Mamba's actuation force are unknown, both switches offer similar results in terms of bottom out force. However, for those who prioritize weight, the Mamba would be the heavier option whereas the Yellow Silver provides a lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference and the desired typing experience for each user.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Mamba has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Yellow Silver has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional standards, the Yellow Silver falls closer to the average 4.0 mm travel distance, whereas the Mamba offers a slightly shallower travel distance. However, with the growing preference for shorter travel distances, especially among gamers seeking faster response times, the Mamba's 3.5 mm travel distance may be more appealing. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker keystrokes and enhanced responsiveness. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance of the Mamba to be too abrupt or lacking in depth. In such cases, the longer 4 mm travel distance of the Yellow Silver may be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Durock Mamba is known for its neutral sound profile and a thocky quality. When typing on these switches, users can expect a rich and creamy auditory experience, similar to a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver is also described as having a neutral sound profile. Since the specific sound profile of a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, both switches are likely to provide similar results in terms of sound, with a moderate and neutral sound profile.

Moving on to feel, the Durock Mamba is described as having a mild typing experience. These switches offer a more gentle typing feel, making them approachable for most users. Additionally, the Mamba switches are noted for having a polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined key travel. The Outemu Yellow Silver, on the other hand, lacks specific descriptions regarding its feel. However, as both switches are linear switches, they are likely to provide a smooth and consistent keystroke, with the Mamba potentially offering a slightly milder feel and more polished typing experience.

Considering all the available information, the Durock Mamba linear switch stands out for its gliding typing sensation and rich auditory experience, especially with its thocky sound profile. It offers a mild and polished feel, providing users with a gentle and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is known for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, making it a suitable choice for gamers and typists who desire speediness and responsiveness. While the specific feel of the Yellow Silver is unknown, it can be assumed that it provides a smooth keystroke similar to other linear switches.

Overall, both the Durock Mamba and Outemu Yellow Silver switches have their respective qualities and advantages. If you prefer a typing experience with a gliding sensation, rich sound, and a mild, polished feel, the Mamba is a great choice. If you prioritize a light actuation force, neutrality in sound, and a linear switch suitable for gaming and typing, the Yellow Silver is worth considering. Regardless of the choice, it's important to remember that the sound and feel of any switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps used.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is a great option. With an actuation force of 55 grams, it offers a more responsive and speedy typing experience. This switch is particularly favored by gamers and typists who value speed and precision. Although it has a neutral sound profile, it still provides a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba linear switch may be your top choice if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force at 60 grams. Its gliding typing sensation and rich creamy auditory experience make it a popular choice among typists. Additionally, the Mamba switch offers a mild typing experience, making it approachable for most users. While the Yellow Silver switch lacks a specific description in terms of feel, the Mamba switch is known for its mild and polished characteristics, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preference in terms of bottom out force and overall typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Mamba Linear

$6.50

$5.17 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Yellow Silver Linear

$3.40 per 10

Learn more