Durock Mamba vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the Durock Mamba and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Mamba linear switch to the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it is clear that they offer two distinct typing experiences. The Mamba switches, inspired by Kobe Bryant, provide a smooth gliding sensation and a satisfying auditory feedback. These switches are ideal for those who prefer a neutral and mild typing experience with a thocky and polished feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple switches offer a tactile bump that provides a more pronounced feedback with each keystroke. While the Purple switches may lack a specific theme like the Mamba switches, they are known for their tactile feel. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Extended long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Mamba stands out with its unique housing materials - a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend for the top housing and a POM bottom housing. This combination results in a sound profile that is bright and deep, creating a pleasant typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Purple features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. Overall, the Mamba offers a balance of brightness and depth in its sound profile, while the Purple emphasizes sharpness and fullness.
In terms of material properties, the Mamba's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing is softer, resulting in a more pleasant and muted sound profile. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Purple is stiffer, leading to a sharper and more resonant sound. Additionally, the POM bottom housing of the Mamba creates a deeper sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Purple absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the Mamba leans towards a softer and more balanced sound, while the Purple emphasizes sharpness and clarity.
When considering the overall typing experience, the Durock Mamba's housing materials create a sound profile that is both bright and deep, offering a unique balance of sound qualities. In contrast, the Outemu Purple's housing materials emphasize sharpness and clarity, providing a more distinct and crisp sound profile. Despite their differences, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that is tailored to different preferences. Whether you prefer a brighter and deeper sound profile or a sharper and crisper sound, both the Mamba and the Purple deliver satisfying results based on their housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, we can see that the Mamba has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Purple has an actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the Mamba is heavier in terms of bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. The Purple, on the other hand, has a lighter actuation force, which may appeal to those looking for a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. Both switches offer different benefits based on weight preferences, with the Mamba being heavier in bottom out force and the Purple being lighter in actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether one prefers a heavier or lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Mamba linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Outemu Purple switch slightly longer in travel distance compared to the Durock Mamba. The shorter travel distance of the Mamba may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Purple may provide a more satisfying depth for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and how it affects the typing or gaming experience. However, both switches offer similar results in terms of key activation and overall typing feel.
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 Outemu Purple comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. Additionally, the Mamba switch provides a thocky sound, producing a deep and satisfying auditory experience with each key press. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple tactile switch's sound profile is unknown, but it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Mamba linear switch provides a mild typing experience, making it approachable to most users with its gentle characteristics. Additionally, the Mamba switch offers a polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction for a sleek typing experience. As for the Outemu Purple tactile switch, information on its feel is unavailable. It is important to consider that the tactile feel of a switch can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users.
Taking into account the subjective qualities of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the limited information available on the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it is evident that the Mamba switch provides a gliding typing sensation with a rich and creamy auditory experience. While the sound and feel of the Purple switch remain unknown, choosing between the two switches would largely depend on personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Ultimately, users can expect a smooth and polished typing experience with the Durock Mamba switch, while the qualities of the Outemu Purple switch remain to be explored.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it's important to consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and enjoy a gliding typing sensation with a rich auditory experience, then the Mamba switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with an undefined bottom out force and enjoy a different typing experience, then the Purple switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what feels best for you when typing.
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