Gateron Aliaz vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz, a tactile switch, and the Durock Mamba, a linear switch, it becomes evident that they offer distinct experiences for mechanical keyboard users. The Aliaz switch stands out for its medium-heavy weight and quiet design, making it ideal for office environments where noise may be a concern. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba switch provides a smooth and gliding typing sensation, coupled with a rich auditory experience. While the Aliaz switch offers a tactile feedback that some users may prefer, the Mamba switch delivers a linear typing experience that appeals to others. Both switches have their own set of characteristics, such as 'Silky', 'Muted', 'Polished' for Aliaz and 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Polished' for Mamba. 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
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock Mamba switches differ in composition and sound profiles. The Aliaz switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic. This makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the light to shine through. In contrast, the Mamba switches have a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, offering a sound profile that is described as pleasant and bright, but not overly sharp.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Aliaz switches also utilize polycarbonate, contributing to the sharper and crisper sound profile of the switches. The translucency of the polycarbonate bottom housing complements the top housing, providing a consistent sound and feel across the switch. On the other hand, the Mamba switches feature a POM bottom housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material adds a unique touch to the overall sound and feel of the switches.
While the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and Durock Mamba switches provide distinct sound profiles, they both aim to enhance the typing experience for users. The use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings of the Aliaz switches creates a cohesive and clear sound profile, whereas the Mamba switches utilize a blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in the top housing and POM in the bottom housing to achieve a pleasant and unique sound. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users can choose between the sharper and crisper Aliaz switches or the brighter and deeper Mamba switches to suit their typing needs.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, it is evident that there is a significant difference in weight. The Aliaz has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, making it a more substantial option compared to the Mamba, which has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The Aliaz provides a stronger push feel, while the Mamba offers a lighter typing experience. This contrast in weight caters to different preferences, with some users preferring a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, while others prefer a heavier force for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Mamba linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Mamba the shorter option, with a slightly shallower travel distance compared to the Aliaz. Those who prefer a faster response time may lean towards the Mamba due to its shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers for quick key presses. On the other hand, the Aliaz offers a bit more depth in its travel distance, which some may find more comfortable for typing or extended use. Both switches provide a different feel in terms of the distance traveled when pressing a key, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference on whether you prefer the shorter travel distance of the Mamba or the slightly longer travel distance of the Aliaz.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
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.
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, the Gateron Aliaz switch provides a more muted typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a quieter environment such as an office setting. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba switch offers a neutral sound profile with a thocky characteristic, providing a rich and satisfying auditory experience to the user. Both switches offer a unique sound profile that will enhance the overall typing experience depending on individual preference, taking into account factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Aliaz switch is described as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Durock Mamba switch provides a mild and approachable typing feel, complemented by a polished finish for a sleek typing experience. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and satisfying typing experience, catering to the preferences of users who value a smooth and gentle key actuation.
Overall, the Gateron Aliaz and Durock Mamba switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. While the Aliaz switch is tailored for a quiet typing environment with a medium-heavy weight and pronounced feedback, the Mamba switch delivers a gliding typing sensation with a rich and creamy auditory experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, consider your environment and typing preferences. If you value a quieter typing experience and a medium-heavy weight for more pronounced feedback, the Aliaz switches would be the ideal choice, especially for office settings. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and gliding typing sensation with a moderate actuation force and a satisfying "thocky" sound, the Mamba linear switches would suit you well, whether you're a beginner or advanced user typing at home or work. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your specific needs and preferences in order to enhance your typing experience.
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