Durock Black Lotus vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options to consider are the Durock Black Lotus and the Kailh Plum. The Black Lotus is a linear switch, known for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision. These switches also excel in reducing housing and stem wobble, ensuring maximum typing pleasure. With a 55g actuation weight that is substantial without being too heavy, the Black Lotus offers a balance of responsiveness and comfort. Additionally, the unique light column provides in-switch lighting and is fully removable, adding a touch of customization. On the other hand, the Plum is a tactile switch that stands out for its heftiness and unique lack of a pronounced tactile bump. Unlike many other tactile switches, which prioritize tactility and weightiness, the Plum offers a different typing experience. It also boasts a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Black Lotus and the Kailh Plum differ in their choice of housing materials. The Black Lotus utilizes a modified PC and UPE Blend for its top housing, giving it a unique and premium feel. On the other hand, the Plum switch opts for a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials provide aesthetic value, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially suitable for switches with RGB lighting. In terms of sound, the Black Lotus's top housing may offer a distinct premium feel, while the Plum's polycarbonate top housing delivers a clearer and more resonant sound profile.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches employ nylon as their material of choice. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer nature of nylon. However, the Black Lotus claims that typing on its switches results in a duller and rounder sound, possibly indicating a more subdued effect from the nylon bottom housing. The Plum switch, which also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, may offer a similar deep and full sound profile.
Although the top and bottom housing materials may differ, their impact on the overall sound and feel of the switches is somewhat divided. The bottom housing material affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing material plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, it is important to consider both the top and bottom housing materials when comparing the Durock Black Lotus and the Kailh Plum switches. If you desire a switch with a premium feel and a distinct sound profile upon release, the Black Lotus with its modified PC and UPE Blend top housing may be the ideal choice. However, if you prioritize a sharper and crisper sound with the added benefit of RGB lighting compatibility, the Plum switch's polycarbonate top housing would be a more suitable option.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. Starting with the actuation force, the Black Lotus requires 55 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the exact force for the Plum switch is unknown. However, both switches can be classified as medium-heavy in terms of actuation force.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Black Lotus has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is slightly lighter than the Plum switch's bottom out force of 70 grams. This means that the Plum switch requires a slightly firmer push to fully press the keys down compared to the Black Lotus.
Considering weight, individuals who prefer lighter switches may opt for the Durock Black Lotus as it offers a comfortable typing experience for longer durations, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may lean towards the Kailh Plum, as its heavier bottom out force provides a satisfying tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while both the Durock Black Lotus and Kailh Plum switches have medium-heavy actuation forces, the Black Lotus is slightly lighter in terms of bottom out force compared to the Plum switch. However, both switches offer options for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel or lighter typing experience, catering to different preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch is 4 mm, while the travel distance of the Kailh Plum tactile switch is 3.6 mm. The Black Lotus has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Plum. Generally, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, while a travel distance of 3.6 mm is slightly shallower. However, shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Plum with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, some people may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, and if you prefer a deeper, more substantial key press, the Black Lotus with its longer travel distance would be a better option. Overall, the choice between the two switches depends on your personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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 explicitly described in the given information. However, based on its silky smooth feel and reduced housing and stem wobble, it is likely to produce a relatively quiet and stable sound profile. The Plum switch, on the other hand, is described as having a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate volume and is suitable for various purposes. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Black Lotus switch is described as silky, buttery, mild, and polished. This suggests that it offers an exceptionally smooth and fluid typing experience with minimal resistance. The switch is likely to provide a comfortable and refined feel due to either the materials used or factory lubing. The Plum switch, on the other hand, is described as mild and stepped. This indicates that it offers a relatively gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Plum switch may have a tactile bump that is not as intense, giving a more subtle and mild feel during keystrokes.
In conclusion, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch stands out for its silky smooth feel, reduced wobble, and precise typing experience. Although its sound profile is not explicitly described, it is likely to produce a quiet and stable sound. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a unique tactile sensation without a significant bump, making it distinct from other tactile switches. It is described as having a neutral sound profile and a mild feel. While these switches may have different characteristics, both can provide an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience. By considering the preferred sound and feel qualities, users can make an informed decision on which switch would best suit their preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Durock Black Lotus may be the best choice for you. These switches provide a silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, with reduced housing and stem wobble for maximum typing pleasure. The unique light column also adds in-switch lighting that can be fully removed. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a similar medium-heavy bottom out force, the Kailh Plum may be more suitable. While it may not have a huge tactile bump like other tactile switches, it offers a unique heaviness and a neutral sound profile. The Plum switches feel quite hefty and provide a typing experience that is approachable to most, with a safe middle-ground feel. Additionally, the Plum switches have a stepped feel, meaning they have two stages of tactility that give a mild and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Black Lotus and the Kailh Plum will depend on your preference for linear or tactile switches and the specific feel and sound profile you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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