Durock Blue Lotus vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Blue Lotus and the TTC Neptune offer distinctive features that cater to different preferences. The Blue Lotus is praised for its tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, making it ideal for those who enjoy a pronounced tactile feel and a snappy typing experience. In contrast, the Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure that provides a smooth and frictionless typing experience, reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. The Neptune's ultralight build ensures effortless typing, while its muted sound signature adds a refined touch to the typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics, but the decision between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the TTC Neptune offer contrasting sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Blue Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend top housing provides a unique and premium feel, while the Neptune's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. In terms of the bottom housing, the Blue Lotus's nylon material produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, while the Neptune's polycarbonate material delivers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound experience. These differences in housing materials allow for distinct typing experiences for users of each switch.
Despite the differences in housing materials for the Blue Lotus and Neptune, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience. The Blue Lotus's nylon bottom housing offers a rounder and duller sound profile, while the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing gives a clear and resonant sound. When comparing the top housing materials, the Blue Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend material provides a premium feel, while the Neptune's POM material offers a unique sound profile on the deeper side. While the aesthetics and sound profiles may vary between the two switches, users can expect a high-quality typing experience from both.
In essence, the housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the TTC Neptune play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience. The contrast between the nylon and polycarbonate bottom housings influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, with the nylon offering a deeper sound and the polycarbonate providing a sharper sound profile. Similarly, the differences in the top housing materials impact the sound when the key is released, with the modified PC & UPE Blend material of the Blue Lotus offering a premium feel and the POM material of the Neptune producing a unique and pleasing sound. Ultimately, whether choosing the Blue Lotus or Neptune, users can expect a high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Lotus is the heavier option. The Blue Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Neptune is the lighter option with an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is considered light. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Blue Lotus would be the better choice due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, if a lighter typing feel is preferred for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Neptune would be more suitable. Both switches offer different levels of force, so the choice between them ultimately depends on the individual's preference for typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the TTC Neptune linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - the Blue Lotus would provide a slightly quicker key press due to its shorter travel distance, while the Neptune may offer a slightly more robust feel with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches would offer a similar typing experience due to their close proximity in 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 TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Blue Lotus switch offers a bassy profile, providing a deeper and richer sound during key presses. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune switch is described as having a low-pitched, muted, subdued sound that is refined and unobtrusive. The Neptune's sound profile is more mellow and gentle, while the Blue Lotus delivers a more pronounced and engaging auditory experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Blue Lotus being more vibrant and the Neptune being more understated.
In terms of feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switch is characterized as accented, snappy, and stepped, offering a tactile experience that is prominent yet not overwhelming. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune switch provides a buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished feel, giving users a smooth and effortless typing sensation. While the Blue Lotus focuses on tactile intensity and responsiveness, the Neptune prioritizes a seamless and comfortable typing experience. Both switches excel in delivering a satisfying feel, with the Blue Lotus emphasizing tactility and the Neptune focusing on smoothness.
In conclusion, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Lotus excels in providing a rich, bassy sound and a snappy, accented tactile feel, ideal for users seeking a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune boasts a low-pitched, muted sound and a buttery, frictionless feel, catering to those who prefer a smoother and gentler typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer compelling characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience for newcomers in the mechanical keyboard scene. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether one prioritizes tactile intensity or seamless typing comfort.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you value a marked tactile feel with snappiness and visual appeal, the Blue Lotus may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, frictionless glide with a springy resistance reminiscent of chewy delights and a muted sound signature, the Neptune could be the perfect fit for your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific qualities and characteristics that align with your personal typing preferences and needs.
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