Durock Mamba vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the Durock Mamba and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Mamba linear switch to the Bsun Olive tactile switch, we see two distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Mamba offers a smooth and seamless typing experience with a quiet and polished sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a linear switch. On the other hand, the Olive switch stands out with its deep and resonant sound, accompanied by a pronounced tactile feedback that provides a satisfying and sharp typing experience. While the Mamba is neutral and mild, the Olive switch is accented and invigorating. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Extended long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Mamba and the Bsun Olive switches both have unique qualities that contribute to their overall sound profile. The Mamba features a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, which provides a pleasant and bright sound profile. In contrast, the Olive utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. While both top housings offer unique characteristics, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound output.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Mamba and the Olive switches incorporate a POM material. This material choice creates a pleasing and unique sound with a deeper and relatively more muted profile. The use of POM in the bottom housing of both switches suggests a consistency in sound characteristics, emphasizing a deeper tone and softer impact during keystrokes. Despite any differences in the top housing, the bottom housing material appears to play a significant role in defining the overall sound experience of these switches.
In summary, while the top housing materials of the Durock Mamba and the Bsun Olive switches offer distinct sound profiles, the utilization of POM in the bottom housing results in similar characteristics for both switches. The deep and muted sound produced by the POM material remains consistent across the two switches, showcasing a shared quality in terms of bottom-out sound and feel. Ultimately, while there may be variations in the overall sound due to differences in top housing materials, users can expect a comparable sound experience when it comes to the impact and depth of keystrokes.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, it is clear that the Mamba has a lighter actuation force of None grams, while the Olive has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Mamba at 60 grams and the Olive at 65 grams. This means that while the Mamba may be easier to press down initially, the Olive requires a bit more force to trigger a keystroke. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Mamba for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may appreciate the heavier actuation force of the Olive for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The Durock Mamba linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Bsun Olive tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be noticeable to most users, but for those who prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more substantial keypress feel, the Mamba may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, those looking for a slightly quicker key response may lean towards the Olive. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, and users can expect comparable results from either option.
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 Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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, the Durock Mamba linear switch provides a neutral and thocky auditory experience, offering a moderate sound profile with a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive tactile switch delivers a resonant and deep sound due to its all-POM housings. While the sound profile of the Olive switch is not specified, based on its tactile nature and unique design, we can infer that it likely provides a distinct and satisfying auditory experience.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Mamba switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle and smooth key travel that is approachable to most users. In contrast, the Bsun Olive switch is described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a tactile feedback that is prominent without being overwhelming or subtle. With a medium tactile feel and a firm actuation force, the Olive switch creates an immersive typing sensation that is responsive and distinct with each keypress.
Overall, if you enjoy a linear switch with a gliding typing sensation and a creamy sound, the Durock Mamba is a solid choice. If you prefer a tactile switch with pronounced feedback and a deep resonant sound, the Bsun Olive switch would be a great option. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your mechanical keyboard switch selection.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Mamba linear switch or the Bsun Olive tactile switch, you should consider your typing preferences and priorities. If you value a smooth and gliding typing experience with a creamy auditory feedback, the Mamba switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a resonant and deep sound paired with pronounced tactile feedback for a satisfying typing experience, the Olive switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a linear switch with a neutral sound profile and a mild feel (Mamba) or a tactile switch with a pronounced feedback and invigorating feel (Olive). Think about what qualities are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch and choose accordingly.
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