Durock Black Lotus vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron Type S mechanical keyboard switches, both switches offer unique features and benefits catered to different preferences. The Black Lotus is acclaimed for its silky smooth feel and precise typing experience, with reduced housing and stem wobble for maximum pleasure. With a 55g actuation weight, it provides a substantial yet not overly hefty keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" offers a rejuvenation of classic travel distances and molds through contemporary factory lubing techniques. With a 65g bottom-out weight, it caters to those who prefer a weightier keystroke and boasts a pleasing balance in sound signature. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics, with the Black Lotus leaning towards a 'Silky', 'Buttery', 'Mild', and 'Polished' feel while the Type S is categorized as 'Neutral' and 'Subdued'. These general pointers can help you choose the switch that matches your 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
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron Type S switches both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall feel and sound of the switches. The Black Lotus utilizes a Modified PC and UPE Blend for its top housing, providing a premium and unique feel. In comparison, the Type S features a classic nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic absorbing more sound. While both materials offer distinct advantages, the Modified PC and UPE Blend of the Black Lotus may provide a more premium and unique typing experience compared to the softer nylon of the Type S.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, both switches utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, with the softer plastic absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, contributing to the overall typing experience of the switches. Despite both switches using the same material for the bottom housing, the specific design and construction of the housing may still lead to subtle differences in sound and feel between the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing material for a switch can greatly impact the overall typing experience. While the Durock Black Lotus and Gateron Type S switches both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the Black Lotus's top housing material sets it apart with its Modified PC and UPE Blend. This unique material may provide a more premium and distinctive feel compared to the classic nylon of the Type S. However, both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, making them suitable options for those looking for a quality typing experience.
Weight
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch have similar actuation forces, both requiring 55 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Black Lotus is lighter with 63.5 grams compared to the Type S's heavier 65 grams. This means that the Black Lotus offers a slightly lighter typing experience overall. Some users may prefer the Black Lotus for longer typing sessions due to its lighter bottom out force, while others may prefer the slight extra push of the Type S for a more substantial typing feel. Both switches fall under the category of medium-heavy when it comes to overall force required. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and desired weight of the keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch to the Gateron Type S linear switch, it is clear that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. As a result, you can expect similar typing experiences with both switches in terms of travel distance. Ultimately, both the Black Lotus and Type S switches offer the same travel distance, making them equally suitable for those seeking a linear switch with a 4 mm travel distance.
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 Type S comes in at $4.70 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Black Lotus and Gateron Type S linear switches offer different experiences. The Black Lotus switches are known for their unique light column providing in-switch lighting and a sound that is still unspecified. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S switches offer a pleasing balance in sound, leaning towards a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience. The Type S switches have a subdued sound profile, making them suitable for various environments and user preferences. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Black Lotus switches are described as silky, buttery, mild, and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience with minimal resistance. These switches boast a 55g actuation weight that provides a substantial yet comfortable keystroke. Unfortunately, the specific feel of the Gateron Type S switches is not provided in the information given.
Overall, both the Durock Black Lotus and Gateron Type S linear switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Black Lotus is celebrated for its smooth feel, precision, and in-switch lighting, while the Type S stands out for its contemporary factory lubing techniques and weightier keystroke. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that is sure to meet your needs. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will come down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, consider the differences in bottom-out force and sound signature. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom-out force of 63.5 grams and seek a smooth and precise typing experience with in-switch lighting, the Black Lotus may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke with a bottom-out force of 65 grams and a sound signature that leans towards a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience, the Gateron Type S could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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