Durock Black Lotus vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° mechanical keyboard switches, both switches are linear switches that offer a smooth typing experience. The Black Lotus is lauded for its silky smooth feel, precision, reduced wobble, and unique light column feature, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize typing comfort and aesthetic appeal. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° stands out for its innovative self-padding design, dual-rail structure, and noise-reducing capabilities, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. 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
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. The Black Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend offers a unique and premium feel, while the Zero Degree 0°'s polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Both switches benefit from the stiffness of polycarbonate, which contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing enables RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to both switches.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the Black Lotus and Zero Degree 0° differ with the Black Lotus using nylon and the Zero Degree 0° utilizing nylon as well. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, with the softer plastic absorbing more sound and producing a duller and rounder sound. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing results in a unique tactile and auditory experience, enhancing the overall typing sensation. This similarity in bottom housing material between the two switches suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, the combination of the housing materials in the Black Lotus and Zero Degree 0° switches offers users a balanced and premium typing experience. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing enhances the depth and fullness of the typing sound. Whether it's the unique feel of the modified PC & UPE Blend in the Black Lotus or the sharper sound profile of the polycarbonate in the Zero Degree 0°, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience with distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, we see some differences. The Black Lotus has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Zero Degree's 45 grams, making the Black Lotus a bit heavier in terms of initial keypress. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Black Lotus requires 63.5 grams compared to the Zero Degree, where the force is unknown. In terms of weight, the Black Lotus is considered medium-heavy, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° switch is lighter, which may be preferred by those looking for a switch that allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of actuation and bottom out force, catering to individual preferences for typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Black Lotus the longer option compared to the Zero Degree 0°. The Black Lotus provides a traditional travel distance, while the Zero Degree 0° offers a slightly shallower travel distance. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Zero Degree 0°, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Black Lotus. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the difference in travel distance may cater to different preferences in typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 is known for its quiet and soft typing experience, due to the unique light column providing in-switch lighting. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° is designed specifically for silent typing, with an innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure that absorbs sound and reduces noise. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Black Lotus is praised for its silky smoothness, minimal stem wobble, and a 55g actuation weight that provides a substantial yet comfortable typing experience. The Zero Degree 0° by Gateron offers a soft, elastic feel with unparalleled smoothness and stability, thanks to its dual-rail structure. Both switches provide a smooth keystroke experience, but the Black Lotus may have a slightly more substantial feel due to its actuation weight.
Considering the available information, both the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches offer exceptional smoothness and stability in typing. While the Black Lotus provides a unique in-switch lighting feature and a slightly heavier actuation weight, the Zero Degree 0° focuses on silent typing with its innovative design. Ultimately, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience, and choosing between them would depend on personal preference for feel and sound.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Black Lotus linear switch or the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a silky smooth feel with reduced wobble, the Black Lotus may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a unique self-padding design that offers unparalleled smoothness, stability, and noise reduction, the Zero Degree 0° could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics and benefits, so it's important to consider what features are most important to you when making your decision.
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