Durock Black Lotus vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Durock Black Lotus, a linear switch, and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, also a linear switch. Both switches have their own unique features and qualities that make them desirable choices. The Black Lotus is well-known for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, offering maximum typing pleasure with reduced housing and stem wobble. With a moderate 55g actuation weight, it strikes a balance between substantial feedback and comfortable typing. Furthermore, the Black Lotus boasts a unique removable light column that provides in-switch lighting. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray offers a bouncy typing experience for those who prefer it. Its clean and clacky sound profile adds a satisfying feel to every keystroke. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, and thocky, this switch provides a polished typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs and preferences.

By the numbers

Durock Black Lotus Linear

SP-Star Polaris Gray Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Durock Black Lotus and the SP-Star Polaris Gray have contrasting housing materials that contribute to their unique characteristics. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, which provides a unique and premium feel. In contrast, the Polaris Gray utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both offer a translucent housing suitable for RGB lighting, the Black Lotus emphasizes a premium feel, while the Polaris Gray prioritizes a clear and resonant sound.

The bottom housings of the Black Lotus and the Polaris Gray also exhibit different materials and effects. The Black Lotus utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound that appeals to some typists. In contrast, the Polaris Gray incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, which, similar to its top housing, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer plastic of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance.

Overall, although the top and bottom housings of the Black Lotus and the Polaris Gray differ, each housing material brings unique qualities to the switch. The bottom housing material determines the bottom-out sound and feel upon pressing down, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect varied experiences and considerations based on their preferences and priorities. Whether seeking a premium feel or a clear, resonant sound, both switches offer distinct options for keyboard enthusiasts.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, we can see some similarities and differences. In terms of weight, both switches fall into the medium-heavy category. The Black Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a substantial typing experience. Similarly, the Polaris Gray has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is also medium-heavy. However, the actuation force for the Polaris Gray is unavailable, making it difficult to compare directly.

Considering weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Black Lotus, as its actuation force and bottom out force are slightly lower than those of the Polaris Gray. This lighter weight allows for longer typing sessions, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the Polaris Gray, particularly due to its higher bottom out force.

In summary, while both switches fall into the medium-heavy range, the Durock Black Lotus offers a slightly lighter touch with its lower actuation and bottom out forces. The SP-Star Polaris Gray, despite having an unavailable actuation force, boasts a higher bottom out force, catering to those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience.

Travel distance

The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when selecting a keyboard. In the case of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, both have a similar travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience a consistent 4 mm travel distance. Thus, both switches will provide a comparable typing experience in terms of travel distance. No significant difference in the travel distance can be observed between these switches, making them equally suitable for users who prioritize a specific travel distance for their keyboard. Whether you choose the Durock Black Lotus or the SP-Star Polaris Gray, you can expect similar results when it comes to the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Black Lotus switch does not have a defined descriptor provided in the information. However, based on its description of a "silky smooth feel," one can infer that it likely produces a quieter and more muted sound when pressed and released. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch is described as having a "clean and clacky" sound profile. This indicates that it produces a distinct and slightly louder sound, with a satisfying click or clack noise when typing.

Moving on to the 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 when pressing and releasing keys. The switch's polished finish also contributes to a sleek and refined feel. Similarly, the Polaris Gray switch is described as "mild and polished," indicating a gentle and approachable typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, while the sound qualities of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch are not explicitly mentioned, it is likely to produce a quieter and more muted sound. The switch is prized for its smooth and precise feel, reducing wobble and providing maximum typing pleasure. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a clean and clacky sound profile, with a bouncy typing experience. Both switches share similar qualities of being mild and polished, implying a smooth and refined typing experience. Overall, these switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences and typing style.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, you should consider their bottom out force, sound profile, and feel. The Black Lotus has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Polaris Gray has a slightly higher bottom out force of 67 grams. Both switches fall under the medium-heavy category, so the difference in force is minimal and may not have a significant impact on your typing experience.

In terms of sound, the Black Lotus is not specifically described, so we cannot make a direct comparison. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray is described as having a low-pitched, neutral, and thocky sound profile. If you prefer a switch with a deeper and more bass-heavy tone, the Polaris Gray may be more suitable for you.

When it comes to feel, the Black Lotus is described as silky, buttery, mild, and polished. It offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Polaris Gray, on the other hand, is described as mild and polished, offering a more gentle and approachable typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Ultimately, the choice between the Black Lotus and the Polaris Gray depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, along with the unique light column feature, the Black Lotus may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a low-pitched, neutral, and thocky sound profile, the Polaris Gray might be more suitable. Consider your typing style, preferred sound, and desired feel to make an informed decision.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Black Lotus Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more

SP-Star Polaris Gray Linear

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn more