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
XO vs D162 Tawa
XO
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 profileD162 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 profile| Metric | XO | D162 Tawa |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor profile | Strong bitter, Sweet | Strong bitter, sweet |
| Texture | Creamy, soft | Light, creamy, soft |
| Aroma | Strong, pungent | Moderate |
| Taste notes | Complex bitterness, a subtle sweetness | Bitter but sweet creamy |
| Price range | RM70 - RM100 per kg | RM35 - RM50 per kg |
| Season | June - September | June - August |
| Popularity | High | Medium-High |
| Rarity signal | Common | Semi-Rare |
Quick Verdict Snapshot
- Price: XO averages around RM85.00 vs RM42.50 for D162 Tawa.
- 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.