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
D162 Tawa vs Black Gold (Empire King)
D162 Tawa
D162 Tawa is a deliciously bitter but also has the sweet creamy taste. It's often classified in the bitter category, with many finding it more bitter than varieties like XO. The bitterness and sweetness tend to be on a balancing scale, meaning the more bitter it is, the less sweet, and vice-versa. Some consumers suggest that less ripe fruits might be drier and sweeter, though Tawa is generally sought after for its bitter notes when ripe.
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 | D162 Tawa | Black Gold (Empire King) |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor profile | Strong bitter, sweet | Strong bitter, sweet |
| Texture | Light, creamy, soft | Creamy, velvety, smooth |
| Aroma | Moderate | Mild |
| Taste notes | Bitter but sweet creamy | Deeply complex and intense flavor |
| Price range | RM35 - RM50 per kg | RM60 - RM100 per kg |
| Season | June - August | June - August |
| Popularity | Medium-High | High |
| Rarity signal | Semi-Rare | Common |
Quick Verdict Snapshot
- Price: D162 Tawa averages around RM42.50 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.