Durock Blue Lotus vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, compatibility with your typing style and preferences is key. The Durock Blue Lotus switch offers a tactile experience characterized by its pronounced feedback and snappiness, thanks to a reduced travel distance of 3.7mm, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate a more engaging typing experience. The tactile intensity is complemented by a detachable light column that enhances the visual aspect with vibrant RGB illumination, providing both aesthetic and functional benefits. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin switch is a linear switch designed for those who favor a smooth, uninterrupted key press. Crafted using new molds, the Keylin offers a luxurious typing experience marked by rich acoustics, perfect for long typing sessions where comfort prevails over tactile feedback. Both switches cater to different preferences—whether you crave the satisfying click of tactile feedback with the Blue Lotus or the fluid motion of the Keylin. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
48g
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
UPE
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Blue Lotus and Keygeek Keylin have distinct characteristics in their housing materials that influence their tactile and auditory experiences. The top housing of the Durock Blue Lotus is made of a modified polycarbonate (PC) and UPE blend, which provides a unique and premium feel. This blend of materials is designed to enhance the overall quality of the sound and feel of the switch, contributing to a potentially more responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Keylin's top housing is made of classic nylon, a material known for its softer characteristics. While nylon offers a deeper sound profile by absorbing and dulling sharp sounds, the Durock's modified blend allows for a more refined and articulated sound, which could appeal to users looking for a premium touch.
When analyzing the bottom housings, both switches share the same material—nylon. This similarity brings forth the notable property of sound absorption, which results in a deeper and rounder sound profile for both switches when actuated. As the typing experience is heavily influenced by the bottom housing, both the Blue Lotus and Keygeek Keylin offer similar auditory feedback, emphasizing a fuller sound. Therefore, while the top housings differ materially, the identical nature of the nylon bottom housings results in a parallel resonance and sound quality for both switches, promoting a satisfying bottom-out sound.
Ultimately, the combination of the two housing types plays a critical role in the overall performance of each switch. The contrasting top materials—modified PC and UPE blend in the Blue Lotus versus classic nylon in the Keylin—provide distinctive tactile feedback and sound characteristics that cater to different preferences. Users who appreciate a more unique and refined experience may gravitate toward the Durock switch, while those who favor a consistent, plush typing experience may opt for the Keygeek option. Regardless, both switches deliver a compelling auditory experience thanks to their identical bottom housing, showcasing the importance of material composition in mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch to the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Blue Lotus features a medium-heavy actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a stronger option for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. In contrast, the Keylin boasts a significantly lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, catering to users who favor a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. Consequently, the Blue Lotus is the heavier switch, appealing to those who appreciate a firmer push, while the Keylin is the lighter alternative, ideal for performance and comfort during prolonged use. This distinction in weight contributes to different user experiences, with the Blue Lotus providing a more robust tactile feedback, whereas the Keylin allows for quicker and less tiring key presses.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, the Blue Lotus features a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Keylin has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Blue Lotus offers a deeper pressing experience, which some users may find more satisfying, especially those who prefer a more substantial tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Keylin switch, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers or those seeking quicker actuation for faster response times. As a result, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Keylin might be your preferred choice, while the Blue Lotus could be better suited for those who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, although the difference in travel distance is marginal, it can noticeably affect the typing experience based on personal preferences.
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 Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch stands out with a notably bassy acoustic profile. This deeper, richer sound during key presses provides a satisfying auditory feedback that many users find appealing, creating an immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch are currently unspecified, leaving open the possibility that they may not offer a distinct auditory presence, which is typical for linear switches focused primarily on smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes. This means that those who prefer auditory feedback might lean towards the Blue Lotus for its bassy tones.
In terms of feel, the Blue Lotus switches excel with their blend of tactile intensity and responsiveness. Their design features an accented tactile bump that strikes a perfect balance between notable tactility and a smooth typing experience. The snappier nature of these switches, enhanced by their shorter 3.7mm travel, creates a lively feel that contributes to a satisfying and dynamic typing rhythm. Additionally, the stepped nature of the Blue Lotus means that the tactile feedback is nuanced, providing clear indications during key presses without overwhelming the typist. In contrast, the Keylin linear switches, while promoting a premium typing experience, do not offer specific descriptors regarding their feel. This suggests they remain smooth and consistent without tactile feedback, which could be ideal for users who prefer a more subdued, effortless typing action.
In conclusion, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch offers a rich combination of auditory and tactile qualities, making it a strong choice for those who appreciate both sound profile and responsive feedback during typing. The bassy sound and medium tactile feel characterize this switch as an engaging option. Meanwhile, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, while potentially providing a smooth typing experience, lacks the defining auditory feedback and tactile sensation that typists seeking an interactive engagement might desire. Therefore, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Blue Lotus stands out for those who value a richer, more pronounced typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch should hinge on your typing preferences and use case. If you're someone who enjoys a pronounced tactile feedback with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Blue Lotus is an excellent choice. Its snappy responsiveness and accented feel make it highly satisfying for typists who appreciate a clear tactile cue without feeling overwhelmed. Additionally, the bassy sound profile can enhance the overall auditory experience, especially if you enjoy a deeper sound during your key presses. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, lighter typing experience, the Keylin linear switch may suit you better. With a bottom out force of just 48 grams, it offers an effortless keystroke that can be fantastic for both gaming and long typing sessions. The lack of tactile feedback means you'll experience an uninterrupted flow, which can be more comfortable over extended periods. Therefore, consider your typing style and the balance of tactile sensation versus smoothness you prefer to make the best selection for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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