Durock Black Lotus vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Durock Black Lotus and the Cherry MX Black. Starting with the Durock Black Lotus, it stands out for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, ensuring minimal housing and stem wobble for maximum typing pleasure. With an actuation weight of 55g, it strikes a perfect balance between being substantial without feeling too heavy. Additionally, the unique light column adds an extra touch of customization with removable in-switch lighting. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black is well-known for Cherry's mastery in perfecting these iconic switches. Thanks to the new Hyperglide tooling, these switches offer a classic textured smoothness that many keyboard enthusiasts appreciate. Typing on MX Blacks provides a familiar deep sound profile, further enhancing the typing experience. Both switches offer their own set of characteristics that make them appealing, 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
55g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Nylon
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 the Cherry MX Black switches have some similarities but also notable differences. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, which gives it a unique and premium feel. In contrast, the MX Black utilizes a nylon top housing material. While both materials offer durability, the modified PC and UPE Blend in the Black Lotus may provide a more distinctive and high-end typing experience compared to the nylon material of the MX Black. The nylon top housing in MX Black is known to absorb more sound and create a deeper and fuller sound profile, which can be desirable for some users. However, if you prioritize a switch with a premium feel, the Black Lotus may be the better choice for you.
The bottom housing materials for both switches are nylon, a classic choice in switch housing materials. The nylon bottom housing in both the Black Lotus and MX Black contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, making it an important factor to consider when comparing the two switches. Therefore, in terms of the sound profile and typing experience, the Black Lotus and MX Black switches are likely to have similar results due to their shared nylon bottom housing material.
Overall, while the Black Lotus and MX Black switches have different top housings, their shared nylon bottom housing creates similarities in sound and feel. The modified PC and UPE Blend top housing in the Black Lotus may offer a more luxurious and premium feel compared to the nylon top housing of the MX Black. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Thus, if you prioritize a unique and premium feel, the Black Lotus may be the better option. However, if you prefer a switch with a classic sound profile and are less concerned with the top housing material, the MX Black is a reliable choice that will provide similar results.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, noticeable differences can be observed. The actuation force of the Black Lotus is lighter, weighing in at 55 grams, while the MX Black requires a slightly heavier force of 60 grams to trigger a keystroke. However, both switches provide a similar typing experience as they fall within a similar range.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Black Lotus again proves to be lighter with a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. In contrast, the MX Black exerts a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
Considering the weight factor, those who find it favorable to have a lighter switch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions may lean towards the Durock Black Lotus. Conversely, individuals seeking a more robust and forceful typing experience might find the Cherry MX Black more appealing due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
In summary, while the Durock Black Lotus and the Cherry MX Black differ in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, they both offer a satisfying typing experience, catering to different preferences. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier switch, both options provide reliable and distinctive keystrokes for various typing needs.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. When pressing down on a key, users will experience a consistent 4 mm travel distance for both switches. Therefore, whether using the Durock Black Lotus or the Cherry MX Black, users can expect similar results in terms of the distance they feel when pressing down on a key.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 per 10 switches.
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 is not described, so we do not have specific information on its sound profile. On the other hand, the MX Black switch is described as having a low-pitched sound profile. Low-pitched switches typically have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if a deep and mellow sound profile is desired, the MX Black switch would be a good option, while the sound characteristics of the Black Lotus switch are unknown.
When it comes to feel, the Black Lotus switch is described as offering a silky, buttery, mild, and polished typing experience. A silky switch is exceptionally smooth, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. A buttery switch implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The Black Lotus switch is also categorized as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In comparison, the MX Black switch is described as textured and stiff. Textured switches have noticeable friction when pressed, which some users prefer, while others prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience. The MX Black switch requires a higher amount of force to actuate and/or bottom-out compared to other switches, making it stiff and requiring more force when pressing the keys.
Considering all available information, the Black Lotus switch offers a smooth, refined, and gentle typing experience with reduced wobble and a removable light column for in-switch lighting. While we do not have specific information on the sound profile of the Black Lotus switch, the MX Black switch is known for its deep and mellow sound. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with a smooth feel and a deep sound profile, the Black Lotus switch would likely be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a textured feel and a stiffer typing experience, the MX Black switch would be the better option. Keep in mind that the overall typing experience can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a substantial actuation weight, combined with a silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, the Black Lotus would be the ideal choice for you. Additionally, the unique light column provides in-switch lighting and is fully removable, adding to the overall experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a deep sound profile, along with Cherry's new Hyperglide tooling for a classic textured smoothness, the MX Black is the way to go. Keep in mind that the MX Black is described as having a low-pitched sound profile and a textured feel, while the Black Lotus is described as having a silky, buttery, mild, and polished feel. By considering these attributes, you can make an informed decision based on your personal preferences and desired typing experience. Overall, both switches offer their own unique advantages, so choose the one that resonates with you the most.
Mentioned in this article
