Interactive Tool
Durian Variety Comparison Tool
Compare two durian varieties side by side by taste, texture, aroma, price range, season, and rarity. Perfect for long-tail queries like “Musang King vs Black Thorn” before you buy in Penang.
Choose Two Varieties
D101 Red Flesh vs Black Gold (Empire King)
D101 Red Flesh
D101 is a popular mid-range durian variety with a distinctive sweet taste that develops slight alcoholic notes when fully ripened. The D101 durian, sometimes referred to as Red Flesh or Mas Muar due to its reddish or orangey-red hues in the flesh, is a popular durian variety.
View full variety profileBlack Gold (Empire King)
The Black Gold durian, also known as Empire King or Black Gold Musang King, is a highly prized and rare variety of durian. It is considered a premium grade of the popular Musang King (Mao Shan Wang) durian. The flavor is intensely complex with a sophisticated bitterness that reveals layers of deep sweetness. The texture is exceptionally creamy and buttery, offering a luxurious mouthfeel.
View full variety profile| Metric | D101 Red Flesh | Black Gold (Empire King) |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor profile | Sweet, little bitter | Strong bitter, sweet |
| Texture | Thick, creamy, moist | Creamy, velvety, smooth |
| Aroma | Mild | Mild |
| Taste notes | Sweet, with subtle bitterness | Deeply complex and intense flavor |
| Price range | RM18 - RM35 per kg | RM60 - RM100 per kg |
| Season | June - August | June - August |
| Popularity | High | High |
| Rarity signal | Common | Common |
Quick Verdict Snapshot
- Price: D101 Red Flesh averages around RM26.50 vs RM80.00 for Black Gold (Empire King).
- Bitterness style: Both show bitter/complex signals; choose based on desired finish and aroma intensity.
- Creaminess: Both include creamy descriptors; final choice depends on whether you prefer heavier or cleaner finish.
- Buying tip: Ask sellers for your target profile directly, e.g., “bitter creamy sticky-dry” or “sweet mild less pungent.”
Popular Head-to-Head Comparisons
Use these quick links for frequent buyer searches and long-tail comparison queries.
FAQ
Which is better for first-time eaters?
Usually the milder aroma and less bitter profile is easier for beginners. Use the comparison table to identify lower intensity options.
Can I trust popularity as quality?
Popularity helps with consistency and availability, but quality still changes by season lot, ripeness, and handling at each stall.
Should I compare by price or taste first?
Start with taste and texture target first, then optimize by price range. The most expensive option is not always your best match.