Durock Blue Lotus vs. Gateron Ink Black V2

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron Ink Black V2. The Blue Lotus switch from Durock offers a unique blend of tactile intensity and swift responsiveness. With its slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm, these switches provide a marked tactile feel, making them a great choice for those who enjoy a satisfying keystroke. Additionally, the Blue Lotus switches also come with a detachable light column that provides vibrant, glowy RGB illumination, adding not only performance but also captivating visual appeal. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch that has garnered a loyal following within the community. Known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, this switch offers a satisfying typing experience without the tactile bump. Its low-pitched and bassy sound profile, along with a mild and polished feel, makes it a go-to choice for many enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Durock Blue Lotus Tactile

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches have both similarities and differences. The top housing of the Blue Lotus is made of a modified PC and UPE blend material, while the Ink Black V2 features Gateron's proprietary INK blend. Both housings offer unique and premium feels, but the Blue Lotus's PC and UPE blend may provide a slightly different tactile experience compared to the Ink Black V2's INK blend. The Ink Black V2 is described as having a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, while the Blue Lotus is said to have a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon bottom housing. However, both switches do offer a satisfying and clacky sound, albeit with different nuances.

In terms of sound production, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in both switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Blue Lotus contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known to absorb more sound due to its softness. On the other hand, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2 also creates a relatively high-pitched and clacky sound. The differences in the sound produced by the two switches stem from the unique qualities of their respective bottom housing materials.

When it comes to the impact on the keypress experience, the bottom housing is primarily responsible for the feel of the switch. Pressing down on a Blue Lotus switch will provide the qualities associated with its nylon bottom housing, resulting in a potentially softer and more cushioned feel. Likewise, the feel of the Ink Black V2 will be influenced by its INK blend bottom housing. However, the top housing of both switches still contributes to the overall sound experience, particularly when releasing a key. The top housing material will have more of an impact on the sound generated when the key is released.

In summary, while the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron Ink Black V2 possess different housing materials, they both offer unique qualities that contribute to the overall switch experience. The Blue Lotus's modified PC and UPE blend top housing and nylon bottom housing provide a premium feel and a deeper, fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend top housing and INK blend bottom housing deliver a pointed and relatively high-pitched, yet clacky sound. Despite their differences, both switches offer satisfying experiences for enthusiasts seeking distinct tactile and auditory sensations.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, there are some noteworthy similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Blue Lotus requires 55 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Ink Black V2 requires a slightly higher force of 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy range, providing a solid push feel for typing.

Moving on to bottom out force, the Blue Lotus has a bottom out force of 65 grams, slightly lighter than its actuation force. Similarly, the Ink Black V2 has a bottom out force of 70 grams, also slightly heavier than its actuation force. This means that both switches offer a consistent typing experience as the force required to bottom out matches or closely aligns with the force needed to trigger a keystroke.

Considering weight as a factor, those seeking a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Blue Lotus with its lower actuation and bottom out forces. This lighter feel can be advantageous for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience may opt for the slightly heavier forces of the Ink Black V2.

In summary, while the Blue Lotus has a lighter actuation force compared to the Ink Black V2, both switches deliver a medium-heavy typing experience. The force required to bottom out in each switch complements the actuation force, providing a consistent and satisfying typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, it is clear that there is a slight difference in their distances. The Blue Lotus has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Ink Black V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm. Although the difference may seem minimal, it can still have an impact on the typing or gaming experience.

The 4.0 mm travel distance of the Ink Black V2 falls into the more traditional range, providing a standard depth that many are accustomed to. On the other hand, the Blue Lotus offers a slightly shorter travel distance at 3.7mm. The shorter travel distance of the Blue Lotus may be appealing to gamers who prioritize faster response times, as the shorter distance can allow for quicker keystrokes.

However, it's important to note that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt or lacking in depth. For those who prefer a more substantial and satisfying keystroke, the Ink Black V2 with its longer travel distance may be the preferred choice.

In conclusion, while the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch have a slight difference in their travel distances, the choice ultimately depends on individual preferences. If you prioritize faster response times and a shorter travel distance, the Blue Lotus may be the better option. Alternatively, if you prefer a more substantial keystroke with a longer travel distance, the Ink Black V2 would be the suitable choice. Both switches offer their own advantages, so it is essential to consider personal preferences when making a decision.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Durock Blue Lotus switches are characterized as having a bassy sound profile. This means that the sound produced during key presses is deeper and richer, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches are described as having a low-pitched sound, which is typically more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, the Ink Black V2 switches are also described as chirpy, possessing a unique acoustic signature with a slight squeak. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. Overall, both the Blue Lotus and Ink Black V2 switches offer unique sound profiles, with the Blue Lotus providing a deeper and richer tone, and the Ink Black V2 offering a lower-pitched and potentially chirpy sound.

When it comes to feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switches are described as being accented. This means that they provide a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The tactility of these switches is notable but not excessive, allowing for a comfortable typing experience. Additionally, the Blue Lotus switches are also described as snappy, which means they are highly responsive due to their longer or dual-stage springs, making typing feel more alive. They are also categorized as stepped switches, indicating that they have a mild two-stage feeling with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches are characterized as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. These switches provide a safe middle-ground feel that is approachable to most users. Moreover, the Ink Black V2 switches are polished, which means they have a smooth and refined finish resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. In terms of feel, the Blue Lotus switches provide a more tactile and responsive experience, while the Ink Black V2 switches offer a mild and polished feel.

In conclusion, the Durock Blue Lotus and Gateron Ink Black V2 switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Lotus switches provide a bassy sound with a medium level of tactility, ensuring a marked tactile feel and a snappy typing experience. Additionally, the Ink Black V2 switches have a low-pitched sound with potentially chirpy characteristics, offering a more gentle typing experience with a safe middle-ground feel. Both switches provide unique features that can enhance the typing experience based on personal preferences. It is important to consider other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps to fully optimize the sound and feel of these switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are someone who enjoys a marked tactile feel and vibrant RGB illumination, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch might be the right choice for you. These switches offer a striking blend of tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, with a slightly reduced travel distance for added snappiness. They are described as accented and snappy, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. In terms of sound, the Blue Lotus switches have a bassy profile.

On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and refined linear switch with a rich clack sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch would be a great option. These switches have a bottom out force similar to the Blue Lotus, but offer a more gentle typing experience. They are described as mild and polished, providing a safe middle-ground feel that is approachable to most users. The Ink Black V2 switches have a low-pitched, bass-heavy sound profile with a unique chirp characteristic.

Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile. If you prioritize tactile intensity and vibrant RGB illumination, the Blue Lotus switches would be a good fit. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and refined typing experience with a rich clack sound, the Ink Black V2 switches would be more suitable. Consider your typing style, preferences, and desired sound and feel when making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Blue Lotus Tactile

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn more