Durock Black Lotus vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus linear switch to the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, there are a few key differences to consider. The Black Lotus is praised for its silky smooth feel and reduced wobble, providing a satisfying typing experience with its 55g actuation weight. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver offers a shorter travel distance for quick actuation, as well as a thocky sound and feather-light touch. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that may cater to different preferences. 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
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Black Lotus features a unique combination of a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The PC & UPE Blend top housing provides a premium and luxurious feel, while the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver has a POM top housing and POM bottom housing, creating a similarly deep and muted sound profile. Despite the difference in materials, both switches offer a pleasing typing experience with their unique sound characteristics.
The top housing of the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron Smoothie Silver play a significant role in the sound profile of the switches. The PC & UPE Blend top housing of the Black Lotus lends a premium texture, while the POM top housing of the Smoothie Silver provides a distinct and pleasing sound profile. On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of nylon for the Black Lotus and POM for the Smoothie Silver contribute to the overall typing experience, with nylon offering a fuller sound and POM creating a more muted effect. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron Smoothie Silver each bring their own unique qualities to the typing experience. The Black Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend top housing and nylon bottom housing offer a premium feel and a deeper sound profile, while the Smoothie Silver's POM top and bottom housing create a unique and pleasing sound that is on the deeper and more muted side. While there are differences in the materials used, both switches aim to provide a premium typing experience with their distinct sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it is clear that the Smoothie Silver is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Black Lotus is heavier with an actuation force of 55 grams. The bottom out force of the Black Lotus at 63.5 grams indicates a medium-heavy feel, whereas the bottom out force of the Smoothie Silver is unknown. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their weight, with the Black Lotus providing a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a heavier switch, and the Smoothie Silver offering a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Smoothie Silver the shorter option, providing a quicker response time that is favored by gamers. On the other hand, the Black Lotus offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those seeking a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key press response.
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 Gateron Smoothie Silver has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie Silver for $2.60.
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 known for its quiet operation with a subtle and satisfying sound profile. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver switch is recognized for its thocky sound, which is deep and resonant. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences that can be further influenced by the keyboard build and keycap selection.
When it comes to feel, the Black Lotus switch is characterized as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. The unique light column design enhances the overall typing feel, making it a favorite among users. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver switch is renowned for its feather-light touch and unparalleled smoothness, offering a lightning-fast actuation with a thocky sound. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, catering to a variety of preferences based on typing style and preferences.
Overall, the Durock Black Lotus and Gateron Smoothie Silver switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Black Lotus excels in providing a silky smooth typing experience with a unique light column feature, the Smoothie Silver stands out for its thocky sound and feather-light touch. Depending on personal preference for typing feel and sound profile, both switches offer premium qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences, as both options provide high-quality performance and unique characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for actuation force, typing experience, and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a silky smooth typing feel with a light column for in-switch lighting, the Black Lotus may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force, a thocky sound, lightning-fast actuation, and a feather-light touch, the Smoothie Silver could be the ideal option. Consider your typing preferences, desired sound profile, and overall feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Black Lotus and the Smoothie Silver depends on what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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