Durock Black Lotus vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Black Lotus and the SP-Star Duck are two popular options that offer distinct typing experiences. The Black Lotus is a linear switch, renowned for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision. With reduced housing and stem wobble, this switch ensures maximum typing pleasure. Its actuation weight of 55g strikes a balance between substantial and manageable. Additionally, the Black Lotus boasts a unique light column that provides in-switch lighting and is fully removable. On the other hand, the Duck switch is a tactile option, perfect for those seeking a more subtle typing experience. Its gentle tactility enhances the overall typing feel, resulting in a clean and crispy sound profile. While both switches offer their unique advantages, it is essential to dive deeper beyond these generalities to determine the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Durock Black Lotus and the SP-Star Duck differ in their choice of housing materials, which results in variations in sound and feel. The Black Lotus utilizes a modified PC and UPE blend for its top housing, while the Duck opts for a polycarbonate top housing. The modified PC and UPE blend housing of the Black Lotus offers a unique and premium feel, although it does not specifically mention its impact on the sound profile. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Duck is known to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for those planning to use RGB lighting.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Black Lotus features a nylon construction, which imparts a deeper and fuller sound profile to the typing experience. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Duck utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, which complements the sharper and higher-pitched sound produced by the top housing. Moreover, the polycarbonate bottom housing also boasts the desirable attribute of translucency.
It is important to note that the differences in top and bottom housing materials allow for unique qualities in each switch. The bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing primarily influences the sound when releasing a key. Although both switches incorporate polycarbonate in either the top or bottom housing, their implementation differs, leading to distinct sound profiles. However, if the user desires a premium feel and RGB lighting compatibility, both the Durock Black Lotus and the SP-Star Duck offer similar results due to their utilization of polycarbonate in their respective top housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, there are notable differences between the two. The Durock Black Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the SP-Star Duck's actuation force is not available. In terms of bottom out force, the Durock Black Lotus requires 63.5 grams, whereas the SP-Star Duck requires 58 grams.
The Durock Black Lotus can be considered medium-heavy in terms of actuation force, providing a satisfying push feel when typing. Its bottom out force is also on the heavier side, adding to the substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck's actuation force remains unknown, making it difficult to directly compare it to the Black Lotus. However, its bottom out force of 58 grams falls within the medium range.
Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer a lighter switch may find the SP-Star Duck to be more suitable, allowing them to type for longer periods without fatigue. This makes it ideal for bringing to work or for long gaming sessions. However, for those who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the Durock Black Lotus with its heavier forces would be a better choice. In terms of weight, the Durock Black Lotus is heavier overall in both actuation and bottom out forces.
Ultimately, while the actuation force of the SP-Star Duck remains unknown, the Black Lotus provides medium-heavy actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring a similar result can be achieved. Whether one prefers a lighter or a heavier switch, both options offer distinct advantages depending on the typing experience desired.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will feel the same distance from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying keystroke 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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 does not have a specific descriptor provided. However, based on its silky smooth feel and reduced housing and stem wobble, it can be inferred that the switch produces a quiet and satisfying typing sound. On the other hand, the Duck switch is described as having a clean and crispy sound profile, which suggests that it produces a clear and sharp typing noise. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Black Lotus and Duck switches share similar characteristics. The Black Lotus is described as silky, buttery, mild, and polished, which indicates an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience. These switches offer a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Duck switch is also described as mild, buttery, and polished, implying a gentle typing experience with smooth and fluid keystrokes. Both switches provide a safe and approachable feel that is suitable for most users.
Taking into consideration the available information, it is evident that both the Durock Black Lotus and SP-Star Duck switches offer desirable qualities. In terms of sound, the Black Lotus provides a quiet typing experience while the Duck offers a clean and crispy sound profile. In terms of feel, both switches share characteristics of smoothness, gentle tactility, and improved typing sensations. While specific details may vary, both switches promise a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. It is important to consider personal preferences and other factors such as board and keycaps when choosing between the two switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Durock Black Lotus would be a great option. It offers a silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, reducing housing and stem wobble for maximum typing pleasure. The unique light column provides in-switch lighting that is fully removable, adding to the customization possibilities. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is perfect. It has a medium bottom out force and a clean and crispy sound profile. The Duck switches provide a gentle tactility when typing, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users. In terms of sound and feel, both switches offer a mild and buttery experience, ensuring a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation. Ultimately, your choice between the Durock Black Lotus and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch will depend on your preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as your desired bottom out force.
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