Durock Blue Lotus vs. Huano Elf
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Huano Elf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a crucial role, especially when comparing tactile options like the Durock Blue Lotus and linear alternatives such as the Huano Elf. The Durock Blue Lotus is celebrated for its distinctive tactile bump and snappy responsiveness, featuring a reduced travel distance of 3.7mm that enhances the feeling of precise feedback during typing or gaming. This switch not only boasts an impressive tactile experience but also comes with a detachable light column, allowing for vibrant RGB illumination that adds a visual flair to your setup. On the other hand, the Huano Elf switch is designed for those who favor a smoother keystroke; with its POK top housing, it delivers an acoustically rich sound profile and a medium-light feel that many find comfortable and satisfying for extended typing sessions. While the Blue Lotus is ideal for users seeking pronounced tactile feedback and a dynamic aesthetic, the Elf appeals to those who appreciate a seamless, linear 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
42g
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
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
POK
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 spring
Housing materials
The Durock Blue Lotus and the Huano Elf utilize different materials for their top housings, which influences their overall tactile experiences. The Blue Lotus features a modified PC and UPE blend, which is designed to combine strength with a premium feel. This blend contributes to a unique tactile experience, setting it apart from traditional materials used in switch housings. In contrast, the Huano Elf employs POK, or polyketone, which, while also designed for smoothness, focuses on reduced friction and enhanced durability. With a coefficient of friction significantly lower than that of typical materials, the POK housing allows for a very fluid keystroke, while its impressive wear and shock resistance make it exceptionally robust.
On the other hand, both the Blue Lotus and the Huano Elf share a commonality in their bottom housing composition—both switches use nylon. This choice is rooted in nylon's classic reputation within the switch community for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than its harder counterparts, making the auditory feedback of both switches substantially muted and rounded. As a result, when pressed, users can expect a more satisfying sound signature, irrespective of the differences in the top housings. Therefore, this consistent use of nylon helps anchor the overall sound experience in both switches, creating a familiar feel for users across both models.
When considering the impact of each housing material on the overall performance of the switches, it is essential to note how the individual qualities of the top and bottom housings interlace. The modified PC and UPE blend utilized in the Blue Lotus means that the tactile feedback during key release will feel distinct compared to the smoother drop provided by the POK top housing of the Elf. The nylon bottom housing contributes a rich auditory texture that complements the characteristics of the top housing, ultimately defining the overall typing experience. Thus, while the top materials lead to divergent engagement tactile qualities, the common use of nylon at the bottom enhances acoustic consistency in both switches, demonstrating how different aspects of design can yield similar outcomes in user experience.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Huano Elf linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces that may influence user preference. The Blue Lotus has a firmer actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, making it ideal for those who appreciate a substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Huano Elf features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, which caters to individuals who prefer a less demanding keystroke, especially beneficial for long typing sessions or gaming. However, the bottom out force for the Elf is unavailable, meaning we can't compare that aspect directly. While both switches can potentially offer a satisfactory typing experience, the Blue Lotus provides a stronger push feel, making it the heavier option overall, while the Elf is lighter and may provide a more comfortable experience for extended use.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Huano Elf linear switch provide a subtle contrast that caters to different preferences among users. The Blue Lotus features a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Elf comes in slightly shorter at 3.6 mm. This means that for those who prioritize rapid response times, the Huano Elf may be the preferable choice, as its shorter travel distance could facilitate quicker actuation. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced tactile feeling when pressing down on a key, you might lean towards the Durock Blue Lotus, which offers a deeper travel distance. Ultimately, while both switches are relatively close in distance, the slight difference may influence the typing experience for users seeking either a quicker response or a more substantial keypress feel.
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 Huano Elf has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Elf for $3.29.
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
The Durock Blue Lotus switch produces a uniquely rich and deep sound profile characterized as "bassy," which offers a fuller auditory experience during key presses. This sound is highlighted by a lower frequency range that enhances the overall acoustics of typing, providing an engaging auditory feedback. On the other hand, while the Huano Elf switch is noted for its enhanced acoustics due to the POK top housing, the specific sound characteristics are not detailed, making it difficult to fully compare their auditory signatures. However, it’s essential to note that both switches will be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard build and keycaps, which will further modify their sound profiles.
In terms of feel, the Blue Lotus switch excels with a blend of qualities that make for a satisfying typing experience. It is described as "accented," presenting a medium tactile feedback that strikes a balance between being overwhelming and too subtle. The snappy characteristic of the switch ensures that each keystroke feels lively and responsive, largely attributed to its slightly reduced travel of 3.7mm and longer springs. The stepped nature of the switch further adds to the typing experience by offering a clear tactile bump without being harsh. Conversely, there is no specific tactile feedback described for the Huano Elf switch, which leaves its subjective feel largely unknown in comparison.
Overall, the Durock Blue Lotus switch stands out with its deep, rich auditory feedback and a thrilling tactile responsiveness that many typists crave. While the Huano Elf switch promises a decent typing experience with its acoustics, the lack of detailed descriptions regarding its sound and feel makes it harder to gauge its comparison to the Blue Lotus. For those who highly value tactile feedback and an engaging sound profile, the Blue Lotus is likely to deliver a more fulfilling experience. If you're interested in a deeper sound experience with a pronounced tactile feel, you would be well-served by the Blue Lotus, while the Elf may still provide a satisfying option but with less certainty regarding its performance traits.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Huano Elf linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a pronounced tactile feedback and a snappy, responsive feel—perfect for fast-paced typing or gaming—the Blue Lotus would be an excellent match for you. It's designed for those who appreciate a medium-heavy actuation force that delivers a satisfying tactile bump with each keystroke, along with a bassy sound profile that adds to the overall typing experience. Additionally, the Blue Lotus enhances your setup with vibrant RGB lighting, making it a visually appealing choice for enthusiasts. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience and a more subdued sound signature, the Huano Elf might be the right switch for you. The Elf offers a medium-light feel that makes it easier on your fingers during long typing sessions, with a focus on acoustic quality. Ultimately, if you’re prioritizing tactile feedback and responsive action, go for the Blue Lotus; but if a linear, smooth typing experience is your goal, the Huano Elf is the way to go.
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