Durock Blue Lotus vs. Dareu Dream
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Dareu Dream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to weigh are the Durock Blue Lotus and the Dareu Dream. The Blue Lotus switch by Durock stands out for its tactile intensity and quick responsiveness, providing a satisfying typing experience with a tactile feel that many enthusiasts appreciate. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream switch offers a smooth linear option that is budget-friendly, making it appealing to those looking for a quality switch without breaking the bank. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and advantages, catering to different preferences and needs. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 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 long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the Dareu Dream both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. While the Blue Lotus features a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, the Dream utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The modified PC and UPE Blend of the Blue Lotus provides a premium feel, whereas the polycarbonate top housing of the Dream creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. Both materials excel in their own ways, with the PC & UPE Blend offering a unique feel and the polycarbonate providing a clear and resonant sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Blue Lotus and the Dareu Dream employ nylon for this component. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a rounder and duller sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. Both switches benefit from the qualities of nylon in their bottom housings, offering a satisfying typing experience with a deeper sound profile.
While the housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the Dareu Dream differ in their top housing components, both switches offer a unique and premium typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a balance of qualities in terms of sound and feel. The impact of the bottom housing is felt more during bottom-out, creating a solid, deep sound, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Each switch's housing material plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing feel and sound, making them both standout options for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Lotus is the heavier option. The Blue Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream has an actuation force of 40 grams, with the bottom out force being unknown. The lighter actuation force of the Dream may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience, while the heavier actuation force and bottom out force of the Blue Lotus would provide a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, we can see that the Blue Lotus has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm compared to the Dream's 4 mm. The difference may seem small, but in the world of mechanical keyboard switches, even a fraction of a millimeter can make a noticeable impact on the typing or gaming experience. For those who prefer a quicker response time and a more agile feel, the Blue Lotus with its shorter travel distance would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more deliberate and tactile typing experience with a bit more depth to each keypress, the Dream with its slightly longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable to the individual user.
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 Dareu Dream has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dream for $3.76.
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 Durock Blue Lotus switch is known for its deep and rich bassy sound profile during key presses, offering a lower frequency range that resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream switch is described as producing a sharp and snappy clacky sound when pressed, characterized by a crisp, bright, and percussive tone. When considering sound alone, users can expect a more resonant and bass-heavy experience with the Blue Lotus, while the Dream will provide a sharper and more percussive auditory feedback.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switch offers an accented, snappy, and stepped tactile experience. With medium tactility that is not overwhelming but still prominent, coupled with a super responsive feel and a two-stage tactile sensation, users can expect a tactile typing experience that is engaging and lively. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream switch is described as easy-to-press and mild, providing gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in a low-impact and comfortable typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during extended use.
Overall, the Durock Blue Lotus switch excels in providing a tactile and responsive typing experience with a deep and rich sound profile, making it ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback and bassy sound. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream switch offers a light linear option with a clacky sound profile and easy-to-press feel, catering to users who prioritize affordability and a smooth, effortless typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring that users will achieve satisfactory results based on their specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, consider your preferences for tactile feedback and budget. Opt for the Blue Lotus if you prioritize a tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a snappy, accented feel with vibrant RGB lighting. On the other hand, choose the Dareu Dream if you seek a light linear switch at an affordable price, offering an easy-to-press, gentle typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing style, aesthetic preferences, and budget constraints to ensure a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
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