Durock Blue Lotus vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch to the Haimu Neo White linear switch, it becomes evident that each offers unique features catering to different preferences. The Blue Lotus switch from Durock is characterized by its tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a marked tactile feel while typing. On the other hand, the Neo White switch from Haimu stands out for its medium weight and smooth actuation, providing a satisfying typing experience with a slightly reduced total travel. Both switches offer their own advantages depending on the user's preferences, with the Blue Lotus being accented and snappy, and the Neo White being mild and neutral. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Ly
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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Durock Blue Lotus and the Haimu Neo White switches feature unique top housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile. While the Blue Lotus utilizes a modified PC and UPE blend for its top housing, offering a premium feel, the Neo White utilizes polycarbonate for a sharper, crisper sound profile. Both materials have their own distinct characteristics, with the UPE blend providing a unique tactile experience while the polycarbonate offers a higher-pitched sound. Despite these differences, both materials are known for their clarity and resonance, making them ideal choices for those who prioritize sound quality in their typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the Blue Lotus and the Neo White switches feature nylon, a classic switch housing material known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer compared to other plastics, allowing it to absorb more sound and create a duller, rounder sound during typing. This choice of material for the bottom housing ensures that users will enjoy a more satisfying typing experience, with a focus on sound depth and richness. The shared use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches highlights its popularity and effectiveness in enhancing the overall sound profile of mechanical keyboards.
While the Durock Blue Lotus and Haimu Neo White switches may differ in their choice of top housing materials, both switches ultimately offer a similar typing experience due to the shared use of nylon in their bottom housing. The unique qualities of each housing material, whether it be the premium feel of the UPE blend or the sharper sound profile of polycarbonate, contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. Whether you prefer a tactile typing experience with the Blue Lotus or a crisper sound with the Neo White, both switches excel in delivering a satisfying and immersive typing experience, showcasing the importance of housing materials in the world of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Haimu Neo White linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Blue Lotus also has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Neo White has a bottom out force of 58 grams. This makes the Blue Lotus the heavier of the two switches, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Neo White offers a lighter bottom out force, which may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on the weight of the force required, catering to individuals who prefer either a lighter or heavier feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, slightly longer than the Haimu Neo White linear switch with a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. The Blue Lotus offers just a bit more depth in its travel distance compared to the Neo White, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Overall, both switches provide a relatively short travel distance, offering a balance between speed and tactile feedback.
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 Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Blue Lotus switch is known for its bassy profile, providing a deeper and richer sound during key presses. This can create a more immersive auditory experience for the user. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White switch offers a neutral sound profile, which is moderate and suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by external factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switch is characterized by its accented tactile feel, providing a medium level of tactility that is responsive and not overly strong. The snappy and stepped characteristics of the switch add to its unique typing experience, making each keystroke feel lively and distinct. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White switch offers a milder typing experience, with a gentle feel that caters to a wider audience. This makes the switch approachable and comfortable for different preferences.
Overall, the Durock Blue Lotus switch is ideal for users who prefer a tactile switch with a strong tactile response and swift actuation, accompanied by a bassy sound profile. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White switch appeals to those looking for a smoother and more neutral typing experience with a moderate sound profile. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find the right fit for their mechanical keyboard needs. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for feel and sound in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a tactile and snappy typing experience with a marked tactile feel, opt for the Blue Lotus switches. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more neutral typing feel with a moderate actuation force, the Neo White switches may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your personal typing style and preferences.
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