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

D24 Sultan vs D88 Darling

D24 Sultan

A classic durian variety loved for its rich sweetness and firm texture. D24, also known as Sultan, was very popular in the 1990s before Musang King took over. It strikes a good balance between sweet and bitter flavors with a thick, firm, smooth and creamy flesh. It also has a mild alcoholic aftertaste. The yellow flesh has a less pronounced flavor compared to Musang King, making it less overwhelming for first-time durian eaters. If you like D24 but prefer a more intense flavor, try the XO as it is a variant of D24 but with a more intense flavor profile.

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D88 Darling

D88 Darling has gained popularity for its approachable sweet flavor that features distinctive fragrant notes without overwhelming bitterness. The flesh has a pleasant silky texture with moderate firmness that provides a satisfying bite. This variety is favored by those who appreciate aromatic durians with refined sweetness.

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Metric D24 Sultan D88 Darling
Flavor profile Strong bitter, sweet Sweet, bitter
Texture Soft, creamy, thick, dense Firm, creamy, fibrous
Aroma Strong Pungent
Taste notes Balanced Sweetness & Bitterness Complex and rich flavor profile
Price range RM25 - RM50 per kg RM28 - RM48 per kg
Season June - August May - July
Popularity High Medium
Rarity signal Common Semi-Rare

Quick Verdict Snapshot

  • Price: D24 Sultan averages around RM37.50 vs RM38.00 for D88 Darling.
  • 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.”

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.