Bsun Avocado vs. Durock Blue Lotus
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the Durock Blue Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the BSUN Avocado and the Durock Blue Lotus, both tactile switches. The BSUN Avocado switches are known for providing a refreshing tactile experience with a snappy and responsive bump followed by a smooth downstroke. The tactility is satisfying without being overwhelming, and the switches offer a mild, neutral sound signature. On the other hand, Durock's Blue Lotus switches offer a striking blend of tactile intensity and swift responsiveness. The reduced travel distance of 3.7mm adds to their snappiness, ideal for those who prefer a noticeable tactile feel. Additionally, the Blue Lotus switches feature a detachable light column for vibrant RGB illumination, combining performance with visual appeal. 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
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
Both the Bsun Avocado and the Durock Blue Lotus feature polycarbonate in their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate is useful for RGB lighting. On the other hand, while the Avocado utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, the Blue Lotus also features a nylon bottom housing with similar qualities. This means that typing on the switches of both keyboards will elicit a similar deep and round sound.
In terms of material composition, the Avocado has a more traditional nylon bottom housing, which absorbs sound and creates a duller, rounder sound profile. This is ideal for those looking for a quieter typing experience. Similarly, the Blue Lotus also features a nylon bottom housing for a similar sound profile. However, while the Avocado's top housing is made of polycarbonate for a sharper and crisper sound, the Blue Lotus boasts a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing for a unique and premium feel. Both keyboards offer a blend of different housing materials to cater to different sound preferences, combining the advantages of both materials for an enhanced typing experience.
The impact of the housing materials can be felt differently depending on whether it is the top or bottom housing of the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, as it absorbs sound differently than harder plastics. On the other hand, the top housing has more influence on the sound when a key is released. This distinction showcases how the use of different materials in the housings can affect the overall sound and feel of the keyboard, making the Avocado and Blue Lotus unique in their own right.
Weight
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 55 grams, making the Avocado the lighter option. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 65 grams, which means they will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the force needed to fully press the key. Choosing between the two would come down to personal preference - the Avocado would be better for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Blue Lotus would be favored by those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, individuals should select the switch that aligns best with their typing preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Blue Lotus has a longer travel distance compared to the Avocado. The difference is not significant, but it may be noticeable to those who are sensitive to slight variations in travel distance. For those who prefer a shorter travel distance for quicker response times, the Avocado may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper press may lean towards the Blue Lotus. Ultimately, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with similar results due to their relatively close travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Avocado has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Avocado for $4.00.
The Durock Blue 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 Blue 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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Avocado tactile switch is described as providing a mild, neutral sound signature, creating an unobtrusive backdrop to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch is characterized as having a bassy sound profile, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Regarding the feel of the switches, both the Avocado and Blue Lotus are described as having an accented tactile feel, providing a medium level of tactility that is noticeable without being overpowering. Additionally, both switches are noted for their snappy and responsive nature, offering a satisfying typing experience with a pronounced feedback. The Avocado is also described as sharp, with a distinct and intense tactile bump, while the Blue Lotus is labeled as stepped, giving a sensation of two-stage feedback during key presses.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Avocado and Durock Blue Lotus tactile switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing experiences. The Avocado provides a buttery downstroke and a pronounced tactile feedback with mild sound, while the Blue Lotus offers a swift responsiveness, marked tactile feel, and a bassy sound profile. Depending on individual preferences for tactility, sound, and overall typing experience, users can expect a satisfying and immersive feel when using either of these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a pronounced tactile bump with a buttery downstroke and a mild, neutral sound signature, the Avocado may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a blend of tactile intensity, swift responsiveness, and vibrant RGB illumination, the Blue Lotus could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for the tactile feel, sound profile, and overall typing experience you desire in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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