Durock Blue Lotus vs. HMX EMO
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the HMX EMO switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Durock Blue Lotus and the HMX EMO. The Blue Lotus switch from Durock is a tactile switch that is praised for its tactile intensity and swift responsiveness. With a slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm, these switches provide a satisfying tactile feel that is perfect for those seeking a tactile typing experience. Additionally, the detachable light column offers vibrant RGB illumination, adding a visually appealing element to your keyboard. On the other hand, the HMX EMO switch is a linear switch that offers a lively, clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. The factory-lubed EMO switch delivers a bouncy and smooth typing experience that many find satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the Blue Lotus and EMO switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
46g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Blue Lotus features a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, which provides a unique and premium feel to the switch. This blend of materials offers a different sound profile compared to the HMX EMO's polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate material used in the EMO switch creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Both materials have their advantages, with the PC & UPE Blend offering a premium feel and the polycarbonate providing a clear and resonant sound profile. In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate housing of the EMO makes it suitable for RGB lighting applications.
In contrast, both the Blue Lotus and the HMX EMO feature a nylon bottom housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The nylon material used in the bottom housing of both switches absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Despite using the same material for the bottom housing, the impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch can vary depending on the design and construction of each switch. It is essential to consider how the bottom housing contributes to the typing experience, as it has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
While the top and bottom housings of the Blue Lotus and HMX EMO switches differ in material, each housing material brings unique qualities to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the combination of materials used in the housing of a switch plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile and feel of the switch. Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Blue Lotus and the HMX EMO aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their respective housing materials.
Weight
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the HMX EMO linear switch. The Blue Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy in terms of force required for typing. On the other hand, the EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it lighter in comparison. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the EMO would be the better choice. In contrast, those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Blue Lotus. Both switches have their advantages depending on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the EMO switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Blue Lotus. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The Blue Lotus offers a bit more depth with its 3.7 mm travel distance, providing a more substantial feel when pressed. On the other hand, the EMO's 3.5 mm travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a quicker and more responsive keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 HMX EMO has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EMO for $2.79.
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 bassy sound profile, offering a deeper and richer sound during key presses. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the HMX EMO switch are not specified. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switch is described as accented, snappy, and stepped. This means that it provides a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming, yet still noticeable, while also offering a responsive typing experience with a tactile bump that is not too harsh. In comparison, the HMX EMO switch is noted for its lively and clacky feel with a light 46g bottom-out force, along with exceptional factory lubrication for a smooth and satisfying typing experience. The specific feel of the EMO switch is not further detailed.
Overall, both the Durock Blue Lotus and HMX EMO switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a tactile switch with a slightly reduced travel distance, vibrant RGB illumination, and a bassy sound profile, the Blue Lotus may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a light and clacky linear switch with factory lubrication for effortless typing, the EMO switch could be more suitable. Keep in mind that personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup, so consider trying out both switches to see which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and enjoy a marked tactile feel with snappy responsiveness, the Blue Lotus switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a lively, clacky feel with smooth typing experience, the EMO switches would be more suitable for your needs. Consider your preference for tactile feedback, desired sound profile, and typing experience when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what suits your typing style best.
Mentioned in this article
