Durock Blue Lotus vs. Dareu Holly
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Dareu Holly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Blue Lotus to the Dareu Holly mechanical keyboard switches, one can appreciate the unique qualities that each switch brings to the table. The Blue Lotus stands out for its tactile intensity and quick responsiveness, with a slightly reduced travel distance that enhances its snappiness. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a pronounced tactile feel and enjoy vibrant RGB illumination with its detachable light column. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly offers a distinctive sound signature with a medium actuation force of 50g, combining chirpy and clacky elements for a balanced typing experience. While the Blue Lotus is known for its accentuated and snappy feel, the Holly caters to users seeking a more neutral and unique 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
50g
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 Durock Blue Lotus and the Dareu Holly both use different materials for their top and bottom housings, with the Blue Lotus featuring a Modified PC & UPE Blend top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Holly incorporates a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. In terms of sound profile, the Blue Lotus's Modified PC & UPE Blend top housing provides a unique and premium feel, while the Holly's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The nylon bottom housing for both switches elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, with nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
However, despite the differences in materials used for the top and bottom housings, both the Durock Blue Lotus and the Dareu Holly aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique housing materials. The Blue Lotus's blend of Modified PC & UPE in the top housing and nylon in the bottom housing creates a balance between a premium feel and a deep sound profile when typing. Similarly, the Holly's combination of polycarbonate in the top housing and nylon in the bottom housing offers a sharper sound profile with a softer touch when typing, resulting in a more well-rounded typing experience overall.
In conclusion, while the housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the Dareu Holly differ with their top and bottom combinations, both switches offer a distinct typing experience. The Blue Lotus's use of a Modified PC & UPE Blend top housing and nylon bottom housing provides a premium feel with a deep sound profile, while the Holly's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing create a sharper sound with a softer touch. Overall, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience by combining different materials to enhance the sound and feel of each keystroke.
Weight
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Dareu Holly tactile switch with an actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Blue Lotus requires 65 grams, while the Holly's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Blue Lotus may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Holly may be the better option with its lower actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, which is slightly shorter than the Dareu Holly tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Holly switch offers a slightly longer distance for key presses compared to the Blue Lotus. The difference in travel distance may not be significant, but it can impact the overall typing or gaming experience for some users. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Blue Lotus, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Holly switch. In general, both switches offer a moderate travel distance that strikes a balance between responsiveness and depth, providing users with a comfortable typing or gaming 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 Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Blue Lotus switch offers a bassy sound profile, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly switch has a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, giving users a balanced and distinctive typing experience. Depending on personal preference, users may appreciate the deep resonance of the Blue Lotus or the distinctive sound signature of the Holly.
In terms of feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switch is characterized by its accentuated tactility, snappy response, and stepped feel. This combination of features creates a tactile experience that is engaging and responsive without being overwhelming. The Dareu Holly switch's specific feel is not mentioned in the provided information, but it likely offers a different tactile experience compared to the Blue Lotus. Users looking for a switch with a medium tactile feel and a swift response may find the Blue Lotus more appealing, while those seeking a different tactile sensation may prefer the Holly.
Considering all available information, the Durock Blue Lotus and Dareu Holly switches offer different tactile and auditory experiences. The Blue Lotus switch excels in providing a snappy and accentuated tactile feel, accompanied by a deep and bassy sound profile. On the other hand, the Holly switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky sounds, catering to users looking for a distinct typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for tactile feedback and sound characteristics. Both switches offer high-quality components and performance, ensuring that users will get a satisfying typing experience regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch, consider your preferences for tactile intensity and sound signature. Opt for the Blue Lotus if you desire a medium-heavy bottom out force with a noticeable tactile feel and a snappy typing experience, coupled with vibrant RGB illumination. On the other hand, choose the Holly if you prefer a medium actuation force switch with a unique sound profile that combines chirpy and clacky elements for a balanced and distinctive typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should align with your personal typing style and preferences for both feel and sound in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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