Durock Black Lotus vs. SP-Star Yanyu

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can make all the difference in your typing experience. Two switches that are worth considering are the Durock Black Lotus and the SP-Star Yanyu, both of which are linear switches. The Black Lotus is known for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, thanks to its reduced housing and stem wobble. With a 55g actuation weight, it offers a substantial but not too hefty typing experience. Additionally, the unique light column provides in-switch lighting that is fully removable. On the other hand, the Yanyu switches are perfect for those seeking a more delicate typing experience or for those who spend long periods of time typing. The Yanyu's material blend gives it a crisp sound profile, and it is categorized as neutral, mild, thocky, feathery, subtle, and polished. Each switch has its own unique qualities and advantages, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your preferences and needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can make the best decision for yourself.

By the numbers

Durock Black Lotus Linear

SP-Star Yanyu Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

$5.80

$5.40 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Durock Black Lotus and the SP-Star Yanyu feature different housing materials, with the former using a modified PC and UPE blend for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, while the latter utilizes a polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend for both the top and bottom housings. The Black Lotus's modified PC and UPE Blend housing provides a unique and premium feel, offering a sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans towards the brighter side. On the other hand, the Yanyu's polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing also provides a distinct feel and offers a pleasant sound profile, bright yet not overly sharp.

With regard to the bottom housing, the nylon used in the Black Lotus switch brings a classic switch housing material that enhances the typing experience by eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its relatively softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Yanyu's bottom housing, composed of a polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend, adds its unique qualities to the switch bottom-out sound and feel. While specifics on the sound profile are not provided, it can be inferred that this blend contributes to a pleasant and potentially bright bottom-out sound.

Although the housing materials differ between the two switches, both the Black Lotus and the Yanyu provide a premium and distinct feel through their respective top housings. The modified PC and UPE blend top housing of the Black Lotus offers a unique and premium sensation, while the polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing of the Yanyu also provides a special feel. Despite the differences, the impact of the top housing on the sound when releasing a key is likely to be similar in both switches, allowing for a satisfying and consistent sound experience. However, it should be noted that the specific characteristics and nuances of the sound profiles may differ slightly based on the composition of the housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the Durock Black Lotus linear switch to the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The actuation force of the Black Lotus is 55 grams, while the Yanyu's actuation force is unknown. However, the Black Lotus has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is medium-heavy, whereas the Yanyu has a bottom out force of 43 grams, which is considered light.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Yanyu switch would be a suitable choice due to its lower bottom out force. This would allow for comfortable typing over extended periods, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Black Lotus provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel.

It's worth noting that if the actuation force of the Yanyu switch is similar to its bottom out force, users can expect a consistently light typing experience throughout. Similarly, if the actuation force of the Black Lotus is similar to its bottom out force, a medium-heavy typing experience will be maintained. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Black Lotus offering a heavier option and the Yanyu catering to those who prefer a lighter switch.

Travel distance

Both the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Black Lotus switch does not have a specific description provided. However, based on its silky smooth feel and reduced housing and stem wobble, it is likely that the Black Lotus switch produces a quiet and consistent sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most purposes. Additionally, the Yanyu switch is also described as thocky, meaning it produces a deep and satisfying sound similar to a soft "knock" or a deep "thud" when the key is pressed and released. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the type of keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, both the Black Lotus and Yanyu switches share the descriptor of being polished, indicating a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, both switches are described as having a mild feel, which means they offer a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The Black Lotus switch is also described as silky and buttery, implying an exceptionally smooth and fluid keystroke experience with minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Meanwhile, the Yanyu switch is described as feathery and subtle, suggesting that it requires little exertion from your fingers and has a light typing feel. This reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions.

Overall, both the Black Lotus and Yanyu switches offer subjective qualities that cater to different preferences. The Black Lotus switch provides a silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, while the Yanyu switch is perfect for those seeking a delicate typing experience or typing for long periods of time. In terms of sound, the Black Lotus switch likely produces a quiet and consistent sound, while the Yanyu switch offers a thocky sound profile. Both switches share a polished feel and a mild typing experience, minimizing resistance and providing a smooth and refined typing experience. Therefore, whether you choose the Black Lotus or Yanyu switch, you can expect similar results in terms of feeling a smooth and polished typing experience, although they may differ in sound characteristics.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a substantial actuation weight, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch would be a great choice for you. It offers a silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, with a reduction in housing and stem wobble for maximum typing pleasure. Additionally, the unique light column provides in-switch lighting that is fully removable. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more delicate typing experience or plan on typing for long periods of time, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is the way to go. With a light bottom out force of 43 grams, it reduces finger fatigue and offers a comfortable typing experience. Furthermore, its material blend provides a crisp sound profile. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and advantages, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Black Lotus Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more

SP-Star Yanyu Linear

$5.80

$5.40 per 10

Learn more