Durock Black Lotus vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus and the Cherry MX Red mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer different features and qualities that cater to different preferences. The Black Lotus is renowned for its smooth and precise typing experience, with reduced housing and stem wobble for maximum pleasure. The 55g actuation weight provides just the right amount of resistance, and the unique light column adds a touch of customization. On the other hand, the MX Red by Cherry is known for its slightly heavier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience with responsive feedback and a satisfying auditory depth. While the Black Lotus is categorized as silky, buttery, mild, polished, the MX Red falls under thocky, low-pitched, textured. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that make them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Yes
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 material of the Durock Black Lotus and the Cherry MX Red switches differ in terms of the composition of their top and bottom housings. The Black Lotus features a modified PC & UPE blend for its top housing, while the MX Red utilizes nylon. The different materials result in distinct tactile and auditory experiences when typing on the switches. The Black Lotus with its PC & UPE blend housing provides a unique and premium feel, while the MX Red's nylon housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition.
In terms of sound production, the housing materials of the Black Lotus and MX Red switches play a significant role in creating the overall typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of both switches absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when keys are pressed. This contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches that use nylon housings. The differences in sound quality between the two switches can be attributed to the composition of their bottom housings, highlighting the importance of housing materials in switch design.
While the top and bottom housings of the Durock Black Lotus and Cherry MX Red switches serve different functions, they both contribute to the overall typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt when pressing down on a key, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the top housing material plays a role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite the differences in their housing materials, both switches offer a tactile and auditory experience that is unique to their respective compositions, showcasing the importance of housing materials in determining the overall feel and sound of a mechanical switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is evident that they have some notable differences. The Black Lotus has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the MX Red's 45 grams, making it slightly heavier in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, the Black Lotus also has a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience when compared to the MX Red, whose bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more solid typing experience, the Black Lotus may be the preferred choice due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. However, for users who prefer a lighter touch and the ability to type for longer periods without fatigue, the MX Red may be the better option with its lower actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience a consistent amount of travel distance before reaching the bottom. Both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance, making them ideal choices for those who prefer a linear switch with a shorter travel distance. Overall, the travel distance of both the Black Lotus and the MX Red switches are equal, providing users with a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 Durock Black Lotus linear switch offers a unique auditory experience that is dependent on the choice of board and keycaps used. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying tone when pressed and released. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities that cater to different preferences, so the choice between them would come down to personal preference.
In terms of feel, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch is described as offering a silky, buttery, mild, and polished typing experience. These qualities combine to provide a smooth and refined typing sensation with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Conversely, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is described as having a textured feel, which may appeal to users who prefer a bit of friction in their keystrokes. While both switches offer different tactile experiences, they both aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience overall.
Taking all the available information into account, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch stands out for its smooth feel, reduced wobble, and unique in-switch lighting feature, while the Cherry MX Red linear switch is praised for its slightly heftier feel, deep sound profile, and responsiveness. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and additional features such as in-switch lighting. Regardless of which switch is chosen, users can expect a quality typing experience with either the Durock Black Lotus or Cherry MX Red linear switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, consider your preferences and priorities. If you value a smoother typing experience with reduced wobble and a light column providing in-switch lighting, the Black Lotus may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel, a deeper sound profile, and a classic Cherry switch experience, the MX Red could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of feel, sound, and features that align with your typing style and preferences. Consider trying out both switches to see which one suits your needs best.
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