Durock Blue Lotus vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly impact both the typing experience and overall aesthetics. The Durock Blue Lotus switch stands out with its tactile feedback and quick responsiveness, making it an ideal pick for users who value the pronounced tactile bump paired with a snappy actuation at just 3.7mm. This switch not only provides an engaging typing experience but also enhances your setup with its detachable light column, allowing for dynamic RGB effects that elevate the visual appeal of your keyboard. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch caters to enthusiasts seeking a bright, clacky sound profile, particularly when paired with Wooting Hall Effect keyboards. This hall effect switch emphasizes a distinctive acoustic richness, making it an excellent choice for those prioritizing enhanced auditory feedback during typing sessions. While both switches offer unique advantages—either for tactile engagement or auditory pleasure—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
30g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and Gateron Magnetic Jade, there are notable distinctions in their top housings. The Blue Lotus utilizes a modified PC and UPE blend for its top housing, imparting a premium and unique tactile experience. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade employs a polycarbonate top housing, characterized by its stiffer nature that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. While both materials are designed to enhance auditory feedback, the Blue Lotus's modified blend prioritizes a distinctive feel, whereas the Magnetic Jade focuses on producing clearer resonance, a crucial factor for enthusiasts looking to optimize their keyboard experience. However, both switches excel in accommodating RGB lighting due to their translucent designs, enabling vibrant illumination effects.
On the bottom housing front, both the Durock Blue Lotus and Gateron Magnetic Jade are constructed from nylon, a material revered for its classic properties in keyboard switches. This consistency in bottom housing material ensures that both switches deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, owing to nylon's sound-absorbing qualities. The similarity in this aspect means that users can expect a similar auditory experience from both models when actuating the switches. The nylon's softer plastic nature results in a more rounded sound that resonates well, particularly during key presses, which may appeal to those who prioritize a muted yet satisfying keyboard response.
Ultimately, the combination of different top and bottom housings in each switch creates a unique interplay of sound and feel. In both the Blue Lotus and Magnetic Jade, while their top housings diverge significantly — with a focus on premium feel versus a crisp sound profile — their shared nylon bottom housing harmonizes the typing experience by maintaining a cohesive auditory signature. This interplay means that while users may experience different sensations and sounds while typing, the rich and fuller sound derived from the shared nylon bottom housing contributes to a solid foundation for both switches, ensuring that typing comfort and auditory satisfaction remain at the forefront.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, distinct differences emerge in their 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, providing a more substantial typing experience ideal for users who appreciate a stronger tactile feedback. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade offers a medium-light actuation force of only 30 grams, with a bottom out force of 55 grams, catering to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. Consequently, the Blue Lotus is the heavier switch, while the Magnetic Jade is the lighter option. Users seeking a typing experience that requires less effort may gravitate towards the Magnetic Jade, whereas those who enjoy more resistance might opt for the Blue Lotus. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces suggest that the two switches cater to distinct preferences regarding typing feel and comfort over time.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, the Durock Blue Lotus features a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Magnetic Jade has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Blue Lotus the more traditional option, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing their keys. On the other hand, the Magnetic Jade with its shorter travel distance could be favored by gamers seeking quicker response times. While both switches offer distinct experiences, the differences highlight a preference divide: those who enjoy a deeper, more pronounced key press may lean towards the Blue Lotus, whereas those who prioritize speed and responsiveness might opt for the Magnetic Jade.
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 Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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
The Durock Blue Lotus switch produces a sound characterized by its bassy quality, offering a deeper and richer auditory experience during key presses. This bassy nature can add a certain depth to typing sessions, making it pleasing for users who enjoy a more resonant and substantial sound profile. The acoustics can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard build and keycap materials, but the inherent sound signature of the Blue Lotus typically leans towards that bass-heavy emphasis. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch is celebrated for its bright and clacky sound. This suggests it might be a bit sharper in tone, potentially offering a more 'pingy' auditory feedback that some users find appealing, especially those looking to enhance their typing soundscape.
In terms of feel, the Blue Lotus offers a multifaceted experience. It is accented, providing a medium level of tactile feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, making it suitable for those who appreciate a noticeable tactile response without it being overly pronounced. Additionally, the snappy nature of the Blue Lotus switch contributes to its responsiveness, which is enhanced by interesting spring mechanics designed to enliven the typing experience. The stepped tactile feedback adds to the complexity, allowing typists to feel distinct stages within their key presses, which adds to the overall tactile enjoyment. Conversely, details regarding the feel of the Magnetic Jade switch remain unknown, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons in this area.
In conclusion, the Durock Blue Lotus switch offers a bassy sound profile and a sophisticated tactile feel with its accented, snappy, and stepped features, making it an excellent choice for users who value a dynamic and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, while the Acoustic Jade provides a bright and clacky sound, the specific tactile qualities remain unspecified, suggesting that if you appreciate sound characteristics, you may be drawn to both switches. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences in auditory and tactile feedback, allowing typists to choose based on their personal requirements for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch largely depends on your personal typing preferences and the overall experience you seek. If you appreciate a pronounced tactile feel and a slightly heavier bottom-out force, the Blue Lotus will be your go-to option. Its responsive nature, characterized by its snappiness and medium tactile feedback, makes it ideal for those who enjoy a more engaging typing experience, especially for fast typists and gamers. The bassy sound profile adds richness to your keystrokes, enhancing the overall sensory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a more pronounced acoustic element, the Magnetic Jade switch will better suit your needs. With its medium-light force and bright, clacky sound, it can elevate your typing experience, especially if you value sound and feedback in your use of a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. The Magnetic Jade excels in environments where feel and sound play critical roles, making it a favorable choice for those who prioritize smoothness and auditory feedback. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics, and understanding your personal preferences will guide you toward the perfect selection for your mechanical keyboard journey.
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