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
Little Red (Xiao Hong) vs XO
Little Red (Xiao Hong)
Also known as 'Xiao Hong', the Little Red durian has orangey-red flesh with small seeds and a bittersweet taste, sometimes with a tinge of sourness. It's sweet, creamy and shelf-stable, making it a good option to buy in a packet on special offer. It's the sibling of Khun Poh but offers different flavor notes.
View full variety profileXO
Named 'XO' for its distinctive alcoholic twist, this durian usually has a pale yellow flesh, depending on the region and age of the trees. It has a strong bitter taste with an alcoholic undertone, ideal for those who prefer durians with a strong and bitter profile. The flesh is thick with small flat seeds. Best enjoyed straight from the fruit as handling turns it into a mushy mass. XO is actually a variant of the D24 durian, but with a more intense flavor profile. It is often considered a premium choice among durian enthusiasts.
View full variety profile| Metric | Little Red (Xiao Hong) | XO |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor profile | Bitter, sweet | Strong bitter, Sweet |
| Texture | Creamy, soft | Creamy, soft |
| Aroma | Medium strong | Strong, pungent |
| Taste notes | Bittersweet with occasional sourness | Complex bitterness, a subtle sweetness |
| Price range | RM20 - RM30 per kg | RM70 - RM100 per kg |
| Season | June - August | June - September |
| Popularity | Medium | High |
| Rarity signal | Semi-Rare | Common |
Quick Verdict Snapshot
- Price: Little Red (Xiao Hong) averages around RM25.00 vs RM85.00 for XO.
- 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.