Durock Black Lotus vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Black Lotus and the Bsun Taichi each offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Durock Black Lotus stands out with its silky smooth feel and impressive precision, making it a top choice for those seeking a buttery and mild typing experience. Its 55g actuation weight strikes a balance between substantial feedback and ease of use, while the innovative removable light column allows for customized in-switch lighting. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi presents a unique allure with its polished and clacky profile. The design features a long-pole stem, extended springs, and walled stems, all contributing to a delightful high-pitched bottom-out sound that appeals to enthusiasts who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback during their typing sessions. While both switches are linear and designed for smooth usage, their differing tactile and auditory experiences can significantly affect your overall satisfaction. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Bsun Taichi switches highlight a blend of distinct characteristics that influence both sound and tactile feedback during use. The Black Lotus features a modified PC & UPE blend for its top housing, which is designed to deliver a unique premium feel. This combination creates an appealing tactile experience that may slightly soften the sound profile compared to traditional polycarbonate. In contrast, the Taichi employs a clear polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, crisper sound due to its rigidity. The translucence of the polycarbonate enhances its compatibility with RGB lighting, making it visually appealing for users who desire a bright and vibrant keyboard aesthetic.
While the top housings exhibit considerable differences, the bottom housings of both switches share an identical material—nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes a deeper, fuller sound profile that is due to its softer structure, which absorbs sound rather than amplifies it. Consequently, the impact of the bottom housing on the overall sound and feel of the switches is akin to, albeit enhanced by the unique qualities of their respective top housings. Each switch retains a rich, resonant output characteristic of nylon, which will remain consistent regardless of the top housing’s material.
In summary, although the Durock Black Lotus and the Bsun Taichi feature different top housing materials—modified PC & UPE blend versus polycarbonate—their identical nylon bottom housings offer a shared foundational sound profile. This means that, irrespective of their top housings, both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience, characterized by a deep and resonant sound when bottomed out. Therefore, while users might appreciate the distinct acoustic qualities of each switch, they can expect similar results concerning richness and fullness in sound due to the shared nylon bottom housing. Overall, the interplay of materials in both switches culminates in a nuanced auditory experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, we see notable differences in their actuation forces. The Black Lotus features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, while the Taichi has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams. The bottom out force for the Taichi is unknown, but since it has a lower actuation force, it may offer a less forceful typing experience compared to the Black Lotus. This lighter feel of the Taichi could be preferable for users who favor a more manageable typing experience for long durations, whereas the heavier Black Lotus may attract those looking for a more substantial push feel. Overall, the Durock Black Lotus is the heavier option with a defined bottom out force, whereas the Bsun Taichi is lighter, though its bottom out force remains unspecified.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, the Black Lotus has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Taichi measures at 3.6 mm. This makes the Black Lotus a better option for those who enjoy a more pronounced key press, as it offers a longer travel distance characteristic of traditional switches. In contrast, the Taichi, with its shorter 3.6 mm travel, caters to gamers or users who favor quicker response times and a more rapid actuation. While both switches provide a linear experience, the Black Lotus is preferable for users looking for a deeper feel, whereas the Taichi suits those who appreciate a more responsive and swift action. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference regarding key travel depth and the feel of the switch during use.
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 Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Black Lotus switch is relatively quiet and provides a subdued auditory experience, contributing to an overall smooth typing atmosphere. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi switch offers a notably clacky sound profile that is characterized by a sharp and snappy sound upon keypress. This bright and percussive quality may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. It’s essential to note that the final sound experienced can also depend significantly on the keyboard build and keycap material used.
In terms of feel, the Black Lotus is recognized for its buttery smoothness, delivering a seamless and effortless keystroke experience. It strikes an appealing balance with a mild typing sensation, making it approachable for a wide range of users. The more substantial 55g actuation weight provides a tactile yet gentle feedback that many find pleasing. On the other hand, the Taichi features a polished feel, achieved through meticulous construction that results in reduced friction and a refined typing experience. The enhanced smoothness from its extended springs and long-pole stem offers an elevated level of stability and fluidity.
Overall, while the Durock Black Lotus and Bsun Taichi switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel, each has its own unique attributes that can enhance the typing experience. The Black Lotus appeals to those who appreciate a quieter, smoother keypress, while the Taichi is suited for users who enjoy louder, more pronounced auditory feedback and a polished keystroke feel. Depending on one's prioritization of sound versus feel, selecting either switch can lead to an enjoyable typing experience, but the distinct characteristics ensure they'll feel quite different in practice.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a medium-heavy switch that provides a buttery smooth feel paired with a mild typing experience, the Black Lotus is likely the better option for you. Its actuation weight of 55 grams allows for quick and precise key presses without being overly heavy, making it suitable for both typing and gaming. The unique light column is also a great feature for those who enjoy customizable lighting effects. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a switch that delivers an enchanting, clacky sound, then the Bsun Taichi may be your go-to choice. Its optimized design includes a long-pole stem and extended springs, offering an incredibly polished typing experience marked by stability and a bright acoustic profile. Ultimately, your decision should reflect the characteristics that align with your typing preferences, whether you seek smooth precision or a lively auditory experience.
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