Durock Blue Lotus vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct features and advantages. The Blue Lotus switches by Durock are known for delivering a striking blend of tactile intensity and swift responsiveness. These switches have a slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm, providing a snappy feel that appeals to those who enjoy a marked tactile experience. Additionally, the Blue Lotus switches come with a detachable light column for vibrant, glowy RGB illumination, combining performance with captivating visual appeal. On the other hand, Gateron's G Pro 3.0 Red is a budget-friendly linear switch that offers a smooth typing experience. These switches feature a medium-light actuation force, striking a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. With a frosted light diffuser, the G Pro Red allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, while its medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
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 long spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches provide contrasting characteristics. The Blue Lotus features a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, which exudes a unique and premium feel. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer nature that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. While both top housings incorporate plastic materials, they offer distinct sound profiles and aesthetics.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both the Blue Lotus and the G Pro 3.0 Red. Nylon's softer composition allows for increased sound absorption compared to harder plastics, which creates a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a similar auditory experience in terms of the bottom-out sound, regardless of the switch they choose.
While the top and bottom housing materials differ between the Blue Lotus and the G Pro 3.0 Red, they each contribute to specific aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel, influencing the tactile feedback when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Thus, users can enjoy varying sensations and sound profiles depending on their switch selection, with the bottom and top housing materials playing distinctive roles in each case.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, there are clear differences in weight. The Blue Lotus has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red's 45 grams. However, the difference becomes more pronounced in the bottom out force, with the Blue Lotus requiring 65 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red's 50 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch would be ideal as it allows for effortless keystrokes. This can be beneficial for individuals who spend long hours typing or engaging in gaming sessions, as it minimizes fatigue. On the other hand, the Blue Lotus switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces. This can be preferred by individuals who desire a stronger push feel and enjoy the satisfaction of a more pronounced keystroke.
In terms of weight, the G Pro 3.0 Red is lighter overall with both its actuation force and bottom out force being lower compared to the Blue Lotus. However, it's important to note that even though the Blue Lotus is heavier, it falls within the medium-heavy range for both actuation and bottom out force. Therefore, if a user prefers a heavier switch but wants similar results to the G Pro 3.0 Red, the Blue Lotus would still provide a satisfactory typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on an individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Red offers a lighter touch, perfect for extended typing sessions, while the Blue Lotus provides a more substantial push for those seeking a stronger typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, we can see that the Blue Lotus has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. So, the G Pro 3.0 Red has a slightly deeper travel distance compared to the Blue Lotus.
4.0 mm is considered to be the most traditional travel distance for switches, providing a standard depth that many users are accustomed to. On the other hand, a 3.7 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, which can be preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker actuation, which can be advantageous in competitive gaming scenarios.
However, it is important to note that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be abrupt or lacking in depth. For those who appreciate a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red with its 4 mm travel distance might be a better option.
Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user. If you prioritize a shorter and more responsive travel distance, the Durock Blue Lotus would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a switch with a slightly longer and more substantial travel distance, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red would be the way to go. Both options offer different experiences, so selecting the one that aligns with your needs will ultimately provide the desired results.
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 G Pro 3.0 Red has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Red for $2.77.
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 switches offer a deep and rich bassy sound profile during key presses. This lower frequency range creates a sense of depth and richness that is associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches have a more neutral sound profile. With a moderate actuation force requirement, they produce a sound that strikes a balance between different preferences. It is worth mentioning that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switches provide an accented tactile experience. They fall into the category of medium tactile switches, offering a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. Additionally, these switches are described as snappy, which means they are super responsive and make the typing experience feel more alive. They can also be considered as stepped switches, providing a more mild feel with noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel.
Contrastingly, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches offer a creamy typing experience. This is attributed to the smooth and buttery sensation that these switches provide, either due to factory lubrication or specific materials. Typing on these switches feels like effortlessly gliding your fingers across the keys, as each keystroke seamlessly melds together. The G Pro 3.0 Red switches can also be classified as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that aligns with a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, they have a polished finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switches are best known for their marked tactile feel, snappiness, and vibrant RGB illumination. They provide a deeper and richer bassy sound profile, along with an accented, snappy, and stepped tactile experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switches prioritize a smooth typing experience with a moderate actuation force. They offer brighter RGB lighting effects, a neutral sound profile, and a creamy, mild, polished, and silky feel. Ultimately, both switches cater to distinctive preferences, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience based on individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you enjoy a marked tactile feel and vibrant RGB illumination, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch may be the ideal choice for you. With a bottom out force of 65 grams and a slightly reduced travel distance, these switches offer a snappy and intense typing experience. The Blue Lotus switches also have a bassy sound profile, providing a deeper and richer auditory experience. Furthermore, they are described as accented, snappy, and stepped, offering a medium tactile feel without being overwhelming or scratchy.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth typing experience and budget-friendly option, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is worth considering. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, these switches strike a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. The G Pro 3.0 Red switches feature a frosted light diffuser for brighter RGB lighting effects and a medium-high pitch for a satisfying sound profile described as neutral. They are described as creamy, mild, polished, and silky, providing a gentle and polished typing experience with reduced friction.
Ultimately, the decision between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch depends on your preferences for tactile feel, sound, and typing experience. Consider whether you prioritize a marked tactile feel and vibrant RGB illumination or a smooth and budget-friendly option. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing performance and overall typing experience.
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