Durock Black Lotus vs. Jwick Ginger Milk
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Jwick Ginger Milk switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the Durock Black Lotus and the Jwick Ginger Milk. These switches, although both linear, offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Black Lotus is renowned for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, making it a joy to type on. With reduced housing and stem wobble, this switch ensures maximum typing pleasure. Additionally, its 55g actuation weight strikes a balance between substantial and comfortable. Another standout feature is the unique light column, providing in-switch lighting that can be fully removed. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk switches offer a softer and more pastel typing experience. They provide a silky smooth and approachable push feel, complemented by a muted yet snappy sound profile. Categorized as 'Neutral' and 'Buttery', the Ginger Milk switches appeal to those looking for a more subtle and refined typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and Jwick Ginger Milk switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE blend for its top housing, which creates a unique and premium feel. In contrast, the Ginger Milk utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials contribute to a clear and resonant sound, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intending to use RGB lighting. So, although the top housings differ, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and clarity.
Another distinction lies in the bottom housings of the two switches. The Black Lotus employs a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This is due to the relatively softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound profile. Similarly, the Ginger Milk also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, enhancing the typing experience with its deep and full sound quality. Despite these similarities, it is important to note that the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key.
In summary, the Durock Black Lotus and Jwick Ginger Milk switches differ in their housing materials, which ultimately contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Black Lotus's modified PC and UPE blend top housing offers a unique and premium feel, while the Ginger Milk's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the nylon bottom housings of both switches elicit a deeper and fuller typing experience. It is essential to consider how the top and bottom housing materials impact the overall sound and feel of these switches, as each component plays a distinct role in shaping the user's experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Black Lotus requires 55 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Ginger Milk requires slightly less at 50 grams. This means that the Ginger Milk has a slightly lighter actuation force, making it easier to initiate a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, both switches have the same value of 63.5 grams, placing them in the medium-heavy range.
Considering weight is crucial as it directly impacts typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter feel, the Ginger Milk may be a better choice, as its lower actuation force can provide a smoother and more effortless typing experience. This lighter weight is also advantageous for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions, where fatigue can be minimized. On the other hand, the Black Lotus offers a stronger push feel due to its slightly higher actuation force. This can provide a more substantial typing experience for individuals who prefer a bit more resistance and feedback during keystrokes.
In conclusion, while the Ginger Milk has a lighter actuation force compared to the Black Lotus, both switches have the same bottom out force. Therefore, if a user is seeking a similar typing experience, they can achieve comparable results with these switches. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on personal preference for actuation force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, it is evident that the Black Lotus has a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Ginger Milk has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Black Lotus falls into the more traditional range, providing a deeper key press experience, while the Ginger Milk offers a slightly shallower travel distance. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness. Gamers, for instance, may opt for the Ginger Milk's shorter travel distance to achieve faster response times. On the other hand, individuals who favor a more substantial key press may prefer the Black Lotus with its longer travel distance. Regardless of the option chosen, both switches will provide an adequate typing or gaming experience due to their similar nature.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Jwick Ginger Milk has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ginger Milk for $4.25.
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 Black Lotus switch has not been described in the provided information. However, based on the fact that it is a linear switch and has a "silky smooth feel," it is likely to produce a relatively quiet and smooth sound profile. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk switch is described as having a "muted, snappy sound profile." This suggests that it has a softer and more subdued sound compared to other switches. Overall, both switches are likely to provide a pleasant typing experience with minimal noise, but the Ginger Milk may offer a slightly quieter sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Black Lotus switch is described as having a "silky," "buttery," "mild," and "polished" typing experience. These descriptions indicate that the switch offers a smooth and refined feel, with reduced friction and effortless key travel. The Ginger Milk switch is also described as having a "buttery" feel, suggesting a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. While the specific qualities of the Ginger Milk switch are not provided, its overall description aligns with a smooth and comfortable typing feel. Both switches are likely to provide a satisfying tactile experience, with the Black Lotus potentially offering a wider range of attributes.
In conclusion, both the Durock Black Lotus and Jwick Ginger Milk switches offer subjective qualities that make them enjoyable to use. In terms of sound, both switches are likely to provide quiet typing experiences, with the Ginger Milk offering a slightly softer sound profile. In terms of feel, both switches are described as having a smooth and seamless keystroke feel, with the Black Lotus potentially providing additional characteristics such as mildness and polish. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience. However, based on the available information, it can be concluded that both switches are likely to offer a high-quality and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a switch with unparalleled precision, reduced wobble, and in-switch lighting, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch is the ideal choice for you. These switches have a silky smooth feel and offer a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you are looking for a softer, pastel switch with a muted, snappy sound profile, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch is the perfect fit. These switches provide a silky smooth and approachable push feel. Both switches have a medium actuation force and a buttery keystroke experience, but the Black Lotus offers additional qualities such as a mild and polished feel. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
