Durock Blue Lotus vs. Bsun Kiki Red
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Bsun Kiki Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Blue Lotus and Bsun Kiki Red offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Durock Blue Lotus is known for its tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, with a slightly reduced travel distance that enhances its snappiness. This switch is perfect for those who prefer a marked tactile feel and enjoy vibrant RGB illumination with a detachable light column. On the other hand, the Bsun Kiki Red provides a finely-tuned typing experience with a high-pitched and clacky nuance that is not excessively loud. Its all-POM housing and smooth actuation with Ly stems create a unique sound signature and smooth performance. While the Blue Lotus is categorized as 'Accented', 'Bassy', and 'Stepped', the Kiki Red is labeled as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Silky', and 'Easy-to-press'. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Ly
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the Bsun Kiki Red switches offer different experiences for users. The Blue Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend top housing provides a unique and premium feel, while the Kiki Red's POM top housing creates a pleasing and deeper sound profile. In terms of the bottom housing, the Blue Lotus's nylon material elicits a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer properties, whereas the Kiki Red's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deep and muted sound experience. Although both switches offer unique sound profiles, the housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall feel and sound of each switch.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Blue Lotus and Kiki Red switches, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the Blue Lotus contributes to a deeper sound profile, while the POM bottom housing of the Kiki Red also enhances the overall sound experience. Similarly, the modified PC & UPE Blend top housing of the Blue Lotus and the POM top housing of the Kiki Red both offer premium feels and unique sound profiles. While these switches may have different housing materials, users can expect similar levels of satisfaction when typing due to the thoughtfully designed materials used in each switch.
Overall, the housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the Bsun Kiki Red switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Blue Lotus's combination of modified PC & UPE Blend top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a rounded and dull sound, while the Kiki Red's POM top and bottom housing produce a deeper and more muted sound profile. Regardless of the differences in materials, both switches aim to provide users with a unique and pleasing typing experience. Whether you prefer a softer and fuller sound or a deeper and more muted sound, these switches offer distinct qualities that cater to a variety of preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Lotus is the heavier option while the Kiki Red is the lighter one. The Blue Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Kiki Red requires only 42 grams of force to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option overall. The difference in weight between the two switches can greatly impact user preference, with some favoring the lighter touch for extended typing sessions and others preferring the heavier feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the intended use of the keyboard.
Travel distance
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, slightly longer than the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch with a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for gamers who prefer faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance may not be immediately noticeable to most users, but those who appreciate a slightly longer press may prefer the Blue Lotus. On the other hand, the Kiki Red offers a slightly quicker actuation, which can be beneficial for competitive gaming. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, providing a modern 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 Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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 characterized by a bassy sound profile, offering a deep and rich tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Bsun Kiki Red switch produces a clacky sound, delivering a sharp and snappy auditory feedback. The Blue Lotus provides a lower frequency range, while the Kiki Red offers a crisp and bright sound, catering to different preferences in keyboard acoustics.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switch provides an accented tactile experience, with a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming. Additionally, it is described as snappy, offering a super responsive typing sensation. In contrast, the Bsun Kiki Red switch offers a creamy and polished typing experience, promoting smooth and frictionless key presses. The Kiki Red also features a silky feel, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. Both switches offer a snappy typing feel, adding to the overall liveliness of the typing experience.
Overall, the Durock Blue Lotus and Bsun Kiki Red switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Lotus caters to those who enjoy a marked tactile feel with a bassy sound profile, while the Kiki Red appeals to enthusiasts looking for a smooth and polished typing experience with a clacky sound. Depending on personal preferences for keyboard acoustics and typing feel, users can choose between these two switches to achieve their desired auditory feedback and tactile response. Additionally, both switches offer snappy typing sensations, ensuring a responsive and dynamic typing experience regardless of the chosen switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prioritize a tactile and snappy typing experience with vibrant RGB illumination, the Blue Lotus may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and creamy typing feel with a clacky sound profile and medium-light weighting, the Kiki Red could be the ideal switch for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value tactile intensity and snappiness or prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and enjoy a customized and enjoyable typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
