Gateron Aliaz vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock White Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, it's evident that both switches offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Aliaz switch is ideal for quiet environments like the office, with its silent design and medium-heavy weight providing a substantial feel to each keystroke. On the other hand, the White Lotus switch is designed for the discerning typist, offering a delicate tactility that strikes a perfect balance for work and extended typing sessions. While the Aliaz switch provides a more pronounced typing feedback without noise, the White Lotus switch allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, enhancing the overall typing experience. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
56g
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 long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock White Lotus, we see that both switches feature a unique blend of materials in their top housings. The Aliaz utilizes polycarbonate, known for its stiffness and ability to produce a sharp and crisp sound profile. This is especially beneficial for users who enjoy RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant lighting effects. On the other hand, the White Lotus boasts a modified PC and UPE blend top housing, which offers a premium feel and potentially a different sound profile compared to the polycarbonate of the Aliaz.
Moving on to the bottom housings of these switches, we find another point of contrast. The Aliaz employs polycarbonate in its bottom housing, contributing to a similar sharp and clear sound profile as seen in its top housing. This consistency in housing materials may result in a more uniform typing experience across the entire switch. In contrast, the White Lotus features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This difference in bottom housing materials may offer users a different tactile experience when typing on the White Lotus compared to the Aliaz.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock White Lotus plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switch. While both switches offer unique features in their top and bottom housings, the Aliaz's consistent use of polycarbonate may result in a more uniform typing experience, with a sharper and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the White Lotus's combination of materials in its top housing and nylon bottom housing may provide a different tactile experience, with a potentially richer sound profile. Ultimately, the preference for certain housing materials may depend on the user's individual typing style and preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch are noticeably different. The Aliaz has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the White Lotus has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions and gaming. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the White Lotus more comfortable, while those seeking a firmer push feel may lean towards the Aliaz. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock White Lotus tactile switches have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity allows for consistent typing experiences whether using the Gateron Aliaz or the Durock White Lotus switches.
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 White 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 White 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 offers a muted typing experience, perfect for quiet environments like offices where noise is a concern. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and settings. Both switches aim to minimize the typical mechanical keyboard noise, but the White Lotus may offer a slightly deeper and mellow tone compared to the Aliaz. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors like the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Aliaz is known for its silky and polished typing experience, offering smooth key presses with reduced friction for a refined feel. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus is described as easy-to-press, with gentle resistance and light actuation force for comfortable typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. Both switches provide a pleasant typing experience, but the Aliaz may offer a smoother and more refined feel, while the White Lotus focuses on effortless keystrokes and low-impact typing comfort. Additionally, the White Lotus features a subtle resistance for a gentle typing feel suitable for shared spaces.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz and Durock White Lotus switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Aliaz excels in providing a muted and substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy weight and smooth key presses. On the other hand, the White Lotus offers a light tactile feel with a delicate tactility that strikes a perfect balance between comfort and responsiveness. While their sound profiles may vary slightly, both switches aim to reduce noise levels for a more pleasant typing environment. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard and your preferred typing experience. If you are in a quiet setting like an office and enjoy a medium-heavy keypress with a muted sound, the Aliaz switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a lighter touch, a delicate tactility, and the option for vibrant RGB lighting effects, the White Lotus switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and lighting aesthetics. Choose wisely to enhance your typing experience with the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.
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