Durock Blue Lotus vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer distinct experiences are the Durock Blue Lotus, a tactile switch, and the SP-Star Meteor White, a linear switch. The Blue Lotus switches from Durock are known for their tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, making them ideal for those who crave a pronounced tactile feel. With a slightly reduced travel distance at 3.7mm, these switches deliver snappiness that adds to their overall performance. Additionally, the Blue Lotus switches feature a detachable light column for vibrant RGB illumination, combining performance with captivating visual appeal. On the other hand, the Meteor White switches offer a completely different experience. Described as gentle and subdued, these linear switches are easy to push and produce a soft, pitter-patter sound profile. With a type feel that is smooth and gentle, they provide a polished and thocky typing experience. While these generalities may help you in your decision-making process, let's dive in a bit deeper to provide you with more information so you can confidently choose the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Durock Blue Lotus and the SP-Star Meteor White differ in their housing materials, which contribute to their unique characteristics. The Blue Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, while the Meteor White utilizes a classic nylon top housing. The modified PC and UPE Blend of the Blue Lotus gives it a distinct and premium feel, providing a unique typing experience. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Meteor White absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, both switches offer a satisfying typing sensation, albeit with different sound profiles.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Blue Lotus and the Meteor White employ nylon material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on either switch. The softer nature of nylon plastic absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, whether it be the Blue Lotus or the Meteor White, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Despite their differences in housing materials, the Blue Lotus and the Meteor White share certain qualities. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their respective top and bottom housings. While the Blue Lotus's modified PC and UPE Blend top housing offers a unique and premium feel, the Meteor White's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Similarly, both switches' nylon bottom housing contribute to the overall sound characteristics, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, although the housing materials may vary, both switches deliver comparable results in terms of typing experience and sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, some interesting differences can be observed. The Blue Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Meteor White's actuation force is unavailable. However, both switches have a bottom out force; the Blue Lotus requires 65 grams, whereas the Meteor White requires 57 grams. In terms of weight, the Blue Lotus can be considered heavier with its medium-heavy actuation and bottom out forces.
Choosing between these switches depends on personal preference and desired typing experience. For those who value a lighter switch, allowing longer typing periods, the Meteor White may be more suitable. This can be ideal for individuals using their keyboards extensively at work or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, users who prefer a more substantial and forceful keystroke experience might lean towards the Blue Lotus. The heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Blue Lotus provide a stronger push feeling, resulting in a more solid typing sensation.
While the actuation force of the Meteor White remains unknown, readers can conclude that it is likely lighter than the Blue Lotus based on the lower bottom out force. However, without specific data on the actuation force, it is challenging to make a direct comparison between the two switches in terms of the forces required to trigger a keystroke. Nonetheless, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find a suitable option for their specific typing needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, it is clear that the Blue Lotus has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Meteor White has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. In general, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered traditional, while 3.0 mm is more shallow. However, there is a growing preference for shorter travel distances, particularly among gamers who value faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Blue Lotus with its 3.7 mm travel distance would be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial and immersive typing experience, the Meteor White with its longer 4 mm travel distance may be the more suitable choice.
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 SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
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 tactile switch is known for its striking blend of tactile intensity and swift responsiveness. It delivers a marked tactile feel with a slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm, making it snappy and perfect for those who enjoy a tactile switch. Additionally, the Blue Lotus switch features a detachable light column for vibrant RGB illumination, combining performance with captivating visual appeal. In terms of sound, the Blue Lotus switch is characterized as bassy, offering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses.
On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch provides a gentle and subdued typing experience. It is easy to push and offers a soft, pitter-patter sound profile. The Meteor White switch falls into the category of neutral switches, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes and skill levels. Additionally, it can be described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed, resembling a deep "thud" or a soft "knock."
In terms of feel, the Blue Lotus switch is characterized as accented, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It is also snappy, thanks to longer or dual-staged springs that enhance the typing experience. Additionally, the Blue Lotus switch can be described as stepped, meaning it feels like it has two stages, allowing for some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
On the other hand, the Meteor White switch offers a mild typing experience, providing a gentle feel that most people find approachable. It is also polished, with a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel contribute to its polished feel.
Based on the available information, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch is known for its tactile intensity, swift responsiveness, and snappy feel. It delivers a marked tactile experience and produces a bassy sound profile. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a more subdued and gentle typing experience with a soft sound profile. Its feel is described as mild and polished. It is important to note that the actual sound and feel of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, both switches provide distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, but the Blue Lotus will offer a more tactile and intense experience compared to the Meteor White.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are someone who enjoys a tactile switch with a marked tactile feel and swift responsiveness, the Durock Blue Lotus switches would be an excellent choice for you. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, they provide a medium-heavy typing experience that is both satisfying and enjoyable. The Blue Lotus switches also come with a detachable light column for vibrant RGB illumination, adding a visually appealing element to your keyboard.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued and gentle typing experience, the SP-Star Meteor White switches are a great option. With a bottom out force of 57 grams, they offer a medium-light touch that is easy to push and results in a soft, pitter-patter sound profile. These switches are suitable for both beginners and advanced users, as well as for use in various settings, whether at home or in the office.
When it comes to sound, the Blue Lotus switches provide a bassy sound profile, characterized by a deeper and richer tone during key presses. This can add a certain depth and richness to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Meteor White switches offer a more neutral sound profile, suitable for most intents and purposes. Additionally, they also produce a thocky sound, which is deep, rich, and satisfying when pressed.
In terms of feel, the Blue Lotus switches are described as accented, snappy, and stepped. They provide a medium tactile experience that is not overwhelming yet still noticeable. The snappiness of these switches adds to the overall responsiveness and liveliness of your typing. In contrast, the Meteor White switches offer a mild and polished feel. They provide a more gentle typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switches and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. Consider factors such as your desired tactile intensity, sound profile, and overall typing experience when making your decision. Both switches offer their own unique advantages and can greatly enhance your mechanical keyboard setup.
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