Gateron Aliaz vs. Durock Black Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock Black Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz, a tactile switch, and the Durock Black Lotus, a linear switch, stand out as popular options. The Aliaz switches are ideal for quiet environments like the office, offering a medium-heavy weight for a substantial typing experience without the noise. On the other hand, the Black Lotus switches are praised for their silky smooth feel and precision, with reduced wobble for maximum typing pleasure. The 55g actuation weight of the Black Lotus provides a nice balance between responsiveness and ease of use. While both switches are categorized as 'Silky' and 'Polished', the Black Lotus is also described as 'Buttery' and 'Mild'. Each switch brings unique qualities to the table, catering to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz switch features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Durock Black Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, which offers a unique and premium feel. Both switches use different materials for their bottom housing, with the Aliaz utilizing polycarbonate for a clear and resonant sound profile while the Black Lotus uses nylon for a deeper and fuller sound experience. The split design of the housings allows for different qualities to be felt and heard when typing on these switches.
In terms of construction, the Gateron Aliaz switch uses polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, providing a consistent and clear sound throughout. On the other hand, the Durock Black Lotus switch combines a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing with a nylon bottom housing, offering a contrast in sound profiles between the top and bottom of the switch. The impact of the housing material is felt differently depending on whether you are pressing down on a key or releasing it, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing affects the sound when letting go of a key.
Overall, the choice of housing material in switches such as the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock Black Lotus plays a significant role in the sound profile and feel of the switches. The use of polycarbonate in the Aliaz provides a sharper and crisper sound, while the modified PC & UPE Blend and nylon combination in the Black Lotus offers a premium and deeper sound experience. Whether you prefer a clear and resonant sound or a unique and premium feel, both switches offer distinct qualities based on their housing materials that impact the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Durock Black Lotus linear switch, it is evident that the Aliaz is heavier in both respects. The Aliaz has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, while the Black Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. The Aliaz provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, making it suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Black Lotus offers a slightly lighter typing experience, which may be preferred by those who type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Durock Black Lotus linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. This consistency in travel distance can result in a similar typing experience between the two switches, providing users with a reliable and familiar feel regardless of which switch they choose. Ultimately, whether you go with the Gateron Aliaz or the Durock Black Lotus, you can expect a consistent and satisfying typing experience with a travel distance of 4 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Durock Black Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Black Lotus for $4.57.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Aliaz switch is known for its muted characteristics, minimizing the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, there is no specific information available on the sound profile of the Durock Black Lotus switch. However, given that both switches are tailored for a smooth typing experience, it is likely that the Black Lotus may also offer a quieter typing experience compared to louder switches.
In terms of feel, both the Aliaz and Black Lotus switches are described as offering a silky smooth typing experience. The Aliaz switch is further noted for its polished finish, which enhances the overall smoothness and reduces friction during key presses. Similarly, the Black Lotus switch is described as providing a buttery typing sensation, along with a mild characteristic that falls into a safe, middle-ground zone for most users. With both switches aiming to deliver a polished and refined typing experience, users can expect a premium feel with minimal resistance.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Durock Black Lotus linear switch both excel in providing a smooth and refined typing experience. While the Aliaz is tailored for quiet environments with its muted sound profile and medium-heavy weight, the Black Lotus stands out for its precision and light column feature. Ultimately, users can expect a similar level of high-quality typing experience with either switch, with slight differences in terms of weight and additional features. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and any specific features that each switch offers.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Durock Black Lotus linear switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you are in a quiet setting like an office and prefer a more pronounced typing feedback without the noise, the Aliaz switches with their medium-heavy weight may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silky smooth typing experience with minimal wobble and enjoy a lighter actuation weight, the Black Lotus switches would be an excellent choice. Ultimately, your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience will guide you in selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.
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