Durock Black Lotus vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Durock Black Lotus, a linear switch, and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, a tactile switch. The Black Lotus is known for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, along with reduced housing and stem wobble for maximum typing pleasure. With a 55g actuation weight that strikes a balance between heaviness and lightness, these switches are a great choice for those who appreciate a substantial feel without it being too hefty. Additionally, the Black Lotus features a unique removable light column that provides in-switch lighting. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer a very sharp tactile bump, giving typists a satisfying tactile feedback. While typing on these switches, users can expect a lower-than-average sound frequency, making it a little deeper than average but not "thocky." The Blueberry switches have a categorization of being snappy, buttery, low-pitched, textured, resonant, invigorating, and stiff. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Durock Black Lotus Linear

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

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Housing materials

The Durock Black Lotus and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry have different housing materials that contribute to their unique characteristics. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, while the Blueberry utilizes a POM top housing. Both housing materials provide a premium feel to the switches, with the Black Lotus offering a unique and luxurious sensation, and the Blueberry providing a pleasing and unique sound profile. However, the Black Lotus's modified PC and UPE Blend housing may result in a more tactile typing experience, while the Blueberry's POM housing produces a deeper and more muted sound.

In terms of the bottom housing, the Black Lotus employs a nylon material, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a rounder and more dull sound when typing. On the other hand, the Blueberry utilizes a POM bottom housing that also contributes to its pleasing and unique sound profile. While both materials offer a similar deeper sound, the Blueberry's POM bottom housing may produce a relatively more muted sound compared to the Black Lotus's nylon bottom housing.

It should be noted that the qualities each housing material brings to the switch will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the bottom housing, while the sound when letting go of a key will be affected by the top housing. Therefore, while the top and bottom housing materials may differ for each switch, they both contribute to the overall typing experience and sound profile.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, we can see some similarities and differences. Both switches have an actuation force of 55 grams, meaning that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both. This ensures that users will get a similar typing experience in terms of the initial key press. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, we observe a contrast. The Black Lotus has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy, providing a slightly stronger push feel compared to the actuation force. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, delivering a more substantial typing experience. Some individuals may prefer this extra resistance for a more satisfying tactile feedback while typing. Weight preference ultimately depends on the user's personal preference and typing style. Those who enjoy lighter switches may find the actuation and bottom out forces of the Black Lotus more suitable, especially for extended typing sessions or gaming. However, those seeking a stronger push feel may opt for the NovelKeys Blueberry switch, appreciating the heavier bottom out force it offers. Overall, the weight of a switch plays a crucial role in determining the typing experience, accommodating different preferences for prolonged comfort or enhanced tactility.

Travel distance

The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a mechanical keyboard. The Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer a comparable experience, ensuring that your keystrokes feel consistent and comfortable. Whether you opt for the Durock Black Lotus or the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch provides a low-pitched and clean tone. These switches produce a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch has a lower-than-average sound frequency. It offers a deeper tone that is not "thocky" but still provides a resonant and sharp sound profile. The sound produced by both switches is subjective and can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. With either switch, you can expect a satisfying auditory experience, but the Black Lotus offers a mellower sound while the Blueberry provides a sharper and more immersive sound.

When it comes to feel, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch is described as silky, buttery, mild, and polished. These switches offer an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience. The overall smoothness minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, resulting in a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The switches have a safe and approachable middle-ground feel, suitable for most users. Additionally, the polished finish reduces friction, ensuring smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch provides a snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff feel. These switches are super responsive due to longer or dual-staged springs, making the typing experience feel more alive. They offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience and provide pronounced feedback with a moderate to firm actuation force. Some users prefer the noticeable friction and texture of these switches, while others prefer a smoother typing experience.

Overall, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Black Lotus provides a mellower and cleaner sound profile with its low-pitched tone. It also offers a silky, buttery, mild, and polished typing experience, with smooth and refined key travel. On the other hand, the Blueberry offers a deeper sound frequency with a sharp and resonant profile. It provides a snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff typing feel. While both switches have their unique features, they both offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Depending on personal preferences, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch would be an excellent choice. With its 63.5g bottom out force, it offers a substantial actuation weight without being too hefty. Additionally, the unique light column provides customizable in-switch lighting, adding a touch of personalization to your typing experience.

On the other hand, if you prefer a heavy switch with a sharp tactile bump, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch would be perfect for you. With an 80g bottom out force, it offers a more intense typing feel, suitable for those who enjoy a pronounced tactile feedback. The lower-than-average sound frequency adds to the overall typing experience, providing a deeper tone without being overly "thocky."

In terms of sound, the Black Lotus offers a yet-to-be-determined sound profile, while the Blueberry exhibits a clean and sharp, higher-pitched sound that creates an immersive auditory experience.

When it comes to feel, the Black Lotus is known for its silky and buttery smoothness, minimizing resistance and offering an effortless typing sensation. It also falls into the mild and polished category, providing a safe middle-ground typing experience. On the other hand, the Blueberry is described as snappy, buttery, and textured, offering a responsive and immersive typing sensation with noticeable friction when pressed. It can be considered invigorating and stiff due to its pronounced feedback and higher actuation force requirement.

Ultimately, the choice between the Black Lotus and the Blueberry comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize a medium-heavy linear switch with a smooth feel and customizable lighting, the Black Lotus is an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a heavy tactile switch with a sharp bump and lower-pitched sound, the Blueberry should be your go-to option.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Black Lotus Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more