Durock Blue Lotus vs. Gateron CM
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron CM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Blue Lotus and Gateron CM bring their own unique features to the table. The Blue Lotus switches from Durock are known for their tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, making them perfect for individuals who enjoy a marked tactile feel. With a slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm, these switches offer snappiness that enhances the typing experience. Additionally, the detachable light column provides vibrant, glowy RGB illumination, adding a visually appealing element to your keyboard setup. On the other hand, the Gateron CM switches break away from convention with their full nylon housing, resulting in a richer and deeper sound signature. These switches come with an impeccable factory lube job that ensures an effortlessly smooth typing journey, creating a sensation of gliding gracefully with each keystroke. The lengthened, dual-staged spring of the CM switches contributes to a bouncy typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your keyboard.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron CM switches differ slightly, with the Blue Lotus featuring a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, while the CM utilizes a nylon top housing. Both materials offer unique benefits. The Blue Lotus's modified PC and UPE Blend top housing provides a premium feel, which adds to the overall typing experience. Conversely, the CM's nylon top housing absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic composition, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Although different, both materials contribute to enhancing the sound quality of the switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Blue Lotus and the CM switches utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material offers similar advantages for both switches. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both the Blue Lotus and the CM switches produce a duller and rounder sound, adding to the overall typing experience. Despite the same material, the bottom housing still affects the bottom-out sound and feel differently for each switch.
It is worth noting that the impact of the housing materials differs depending on whether it is the top or bottom housing. When typing on the Blue Lotus or the CM switches, the qualities of the bottom housing are more noticeable during bottom-out, influencing the sound and feel at that moment. The top housing, on the other hand, has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Both switches deliver similar results in terms of the typing experience, as they feature housing materials that enhance the sound quality in different moments of keystrokes.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom-out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron CM linear switch, it is clear that both switches have a medium-heavy weight category. The Blue Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom-out force of 65 grams, while the CM has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom-out force of 63.5 grams. While the actuation forces of both switches are the same, the bottom-out force of the Blue Lotus is slightly heavier than that of the CM switch.
Considering the weight of the switches, individuals who prefer a lighter feel may opt for the Gateron CM, as its slightly lower bottom-out force may provide a more comfortable typing experience for longer periods of time. This lighter actuation force can be beneficial for those who bring their keyboard to work or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a stronger and more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Durock Blue Lotus. The slightly heavier bottom-out force of the Blue Lotus switch may provide a satisfying push feel, which can be suitable for individuals who prefer a more tactile typing experience.
In summary, while the actuation forces of the Durock Blue Lotus and Gateron CM switches are the same, the Blue Lotus has a slightly heavier bottom-out force. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences, with the Gateron CM being a lighter option for comfortable and extended typing, and the Durock Blue Lotus offering a stronger push feel for a more satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch is 3.7 mm, while the Gateron CM linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular. Gamers, in particular, prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you're looking for a more responsive typing experience, the Gateron CM linear switch with its slightly shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. However, it's important to note that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. For those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch with its slightly longer travel distance would be a better fit.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Blue 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 Blue Lotus for $4.57.
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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, both the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron CM linear switch offer a deep and rich sound profile with bassy tones. The Blue Lotus is known for its bassy sound, while the CM switch not only has a bassy sound but also a thocky sound and a low-pitched tone. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so the final sound will also depend on those variables.
In terms of feel, the Blue Lotus switch provides an accented tactile experience. It offers a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, it is described as snappy, which means it is highly responsive due to its longer or dual-staged springs. It also has a stepped feel, meaning there is a slight pre and post-travel sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron CM linear switch is described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless. These switches provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with reduced friction and effortless motion, evoking a sensation of gliding gracefully with each keystroke.
Overall, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron CM linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Blue Lotus excels in providing a marked tactile feel with its snappy response and medium tactile accent. It also features a detachable light column for vibrant RGB illumination, combining performance with visual appeal. The Gateron CM linear switch, on the other hand, stands out with its full nylon housing, delivering a richer sound and a smooth typing journey. With an impeccable factory lube job and lengthened, dual-staged spring, these switches provide a bouncy typing experience. It's important to consider personal preferences and requirements when choosing between these switches, as they offer different tactile and auditory experiences. However, if you are aiming for a deep and rich sound with a smooth and fluid typing experience, both switches can provide similar results, albeit with some variations.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch, you should prioritize it if you're seeking a keyboard switch with a marked tactile feel. With a slightly reduced travel distance and a bottom out force of 65 grams, these switches offer a snappy and intense tactile experience. Additionally, the detachable light column provides vibrant RGB illumination, further enhancing the visual appeal of these switches.
On the other hand, if you value a smooth and effortless typing journey, the Gateron CM linear switch may be the better choice for you. These switches have a bottom out force of 63.5 grams and feature a lengthened, dual-staged spring that offers a bouncy typing experience. The full nylon housing of the CM switches delivers a richer and deeper sound signature, creating a satisfying auditory experience. Moreover, the impeccable factory lube job ensures an effortlessly smooth keystroke with each press.
In terms of sound, both switches offer a bassy profile, characterized by a deeper and richer sound associated with bass tones. While the CM switches also have a thocky and low-pitched sound, the Blue Lotus focuses primarily on delivering a deep and bass-heavy tone.
Regarding feel, the Blue Lotus switches are described as accented, snappy, and stepped. They provide a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, making them suitable for those who prefer noticeable tactile feedback. On the other hand, the CM switches are buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless. These descriptors highlight the smooth and refined typing experience they offer, with reduced friction, smooth key travel, and a seamless typing sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron CM linear switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a pronounced tactile feedback and vibrant RGB illumination, the Blue Lotus is the way to go. However, if you value a smooth and effortless typing experience with a rich sound signature, the CM switches are a better fit. Consider your desired tactile response, sound profile, and typing feel to make an informed decision.
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