Durock Blue Lotus vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Durock Blue Lotus and the Durock Mamba. The Blue Lotus switches are known for their tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, making them ideal for those who enjoy a pronounced tactile feel while typing. Additionally, their slightly reduced travel of 3.7mm adds to their snappiness. On the other hand, the Mamba switches pay homage to Kobe Bryant and offer a gliding typing sensation and a rich auditory experience. These linear switches provide a creamy feel while typing. Both switches have their unique characteristics and appeal, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Ly
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the Durock Mamba differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Blue Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, which gives it a unique and premium feel. This blend creates a sound profile that is not particularly sharp, but leans towards the brighter side. On the other hand, the Mamba utilizes a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing. This blend also offers a pleasant sound profile, though it is more on the deeper side and relatively more muted than the Blue Lotus.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Blue Lotus incorporates a nylon material. Typing on switches with nylon housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Mamba employs a POM bottom housing. POM housings result in an incredibly pleasing and unique sound, characterized by a deeper tone and a relatively more muted profile.
Despite the differences between the top and bottom housings of the Blue Lotus and the Mamba, their respective materials contribute to a similar overall experience. The bottom housing of both switches greatly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Each switch offers its own unique qualities and sound profiles, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for the switch sound and feel they desire.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, we can see some similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Blue Lotus is the heavier option with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Mamba's actuation force is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium.
The actuation force of the Blue Lotus indicates that it requires a slightly heavier push to trigger a keystroke compared to the Mamba, but the difference is not substantial. However, where the Blue Lotus truly stands out is in its bottom out force, which is heavier than that of the Mamba. This means that when typing or gaming with the Blue Lotus, users will experience a more substantial typing feel as they press the keys all the way down.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Mamba, as it offers a slightly lower bottom out force without sacrificing the actuation force significantly. This lighter weight can be beneficial for longer typing sessions or intense gaming sessions, allowing for reduced finger fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more pronounced typing experience may opt for the Blue Lotus with its heavier bottom out force.
In summary, while both the Durock Blue Lotus and Mamba switches offer their unique features and weights, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience, both switches can provide satisfying results, with the Blue Lotus offering a more substantial feel and the Mamba catering to those who prefer a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch is 3.7 mm, while the travel distance of the Durock Mamba linear switch is 3.5 mm. Both switches have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance, indicating a preference for faster response times. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor switches with shorter travel distances for increased responsiveness. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt. In contrast, those who prefer a deeper keystroke experience may opt for the switch with the longer travel distance. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, but they ultimately provide a similar function in terms of travel distance.
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 Durock Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
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 switches are described as "bassy," offering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. The lower frequency range of the Blue Lotus switches resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba switches are described as having a "neutral" sound profile, which means they have a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes. Additionally, the Mamba switches are described as "thocky," producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switches are described as "accented," providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. They are also described as "snappy," indicating that they are super responsive, making the typing experience feel more alive. Furthermore, the Blue Lotus switches are described as "stepped," meaning they have a mild pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba switches are described as "mild," offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. They are also described as "polished," indicating a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Based on the available information, the Durock Blue Lotus switches are known for their tactile intensity, snappiness, and vibrant RGB illumination, making them a great choice for those who enjoy a marked tactile feel. They offer a deep and rich sound profile, and their feel is accented, snappy, and stepped, providing a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba switches are known for their gliding typing sensation and creamy auditory experience. They have a neutral sound profile with thocky characteristics, and their feel is mild and polished, providing a comfortable and refined typing experience.
Overall, the Durock Blue Lotus and Mamba switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. Choosing between the two will depend on personal preferences regarding the sound profile and typing experience desired. However, it's worth noting that both switches are manufactured by Durock, meaning they share a level of quality and craftsmanship. So, even if the exact qualities may differ, using either switch will likely result in a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a marked tactile feel and vibrant RGB illumination, the Durock Blue Lotus switch would be a great choice for you. With its slightly reduced travel and bottom out force of 65 grams, these switches offer a snappy and intense typing experience. The Blue Lotus switches are accented and snappy, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. Additionally, they have a bassy sound profile, offering a deeper and richer sound during key presses.
On the other hand, if you prefer linear switches and want a smooth and refined typing experience, the Durock Mamba switch would be ideal. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, these switches offer a gliding typing sensation and a rich auditory experience. The Mamba switches are described as neutral and thocky, featuring a moderate actuation force requirement and producing a deep, satisfying sound. They are also polished, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch depends on your preference for tactile or linear switches, as well as the level of tactility and sound profile you desire. Consider your typing style, aesthetic preferences, and desired feel and sound when making your decision.
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