Durock Blue Lotus vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron New North Pole V2. The Blue Lotus switches by Durock are known for their unique blend of intense tactile feedback and swift responsiveness. With a slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm, compared to the standard 4mm, these switches offer a snappy typing experience that is perfect for those who prefer a prominent tactile feel. Additionally, the Blue Lotus switches feature a detachable light column, allowing for vibrant RGB illumination that adds a captivating visual appeal to your keyboard setup. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches stand out for their polished and creamy typing experience. Without the rubber dampener found in their predecessor, these switches provide a crisp typing feel while still retaining the hallmark feature of the North Pole lineup – a frictionless glide that Gateron users have come to love. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron New North Pole V2 have some similarities and differences. Both switches have a modified polycarbonate (PC) blend in their top housing, which gives them unique characteristics. The Blue Lotus's modified PC and UPE Blend top housing provides a premium feel, while the New North Pole V2's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for better RGB lighting effects. So, if you're looking for a switch with a distinct feel and visually appealing lighting, both switches offer similar results.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Blue Lotus features a nylon material, while the New North Pole V2 uses polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the Blue Lotus contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2 enhances the switch's overall sound profile with a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper tone. It is worth noting that the bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when you press down on the switch.
Overall, while the top and bottom housings of the Blue Lotus and the New North Pole V2 have different materials, they still offer distinct characteristics. The top housing affects the sound when you release a key, while the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel during key presses. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in either the top or bottom housing, providing a clear and resonant sound profile. However, the Blue Lotus's unique blend of PC and UPE in the top housing gives it a premium feel, while the Nylon bottom housing of the Blue Lotus creates a deeper sound profile compared to the New North Pole V2. So, depending on your preferences for feel and sound, both switches offer their own advantages.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of weight, the Blue Lotus is slightly heavier than the New North Pole V2. The Blue Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy range. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, which is considered medium.
Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but the Blue Lotus offers a slightly stronger push feel with its heavier forces. This can be appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience or who desire a switch that requires a bit more force to activate. However, for individuals who prefer a lighter touch and the ability to type for longer periods without fatigue, the New North Pole V2 with its slightly lighter actuation and bottom out forces would be a more suitable choice.
It's important to remember that personal preference plays a significant role in determining the ideal switch for each individual. Some may find that the differences in force between these two switches are minimal and may ultimately achieve similar results with both switches. Therefore, it is recommended to try out both switches firsthand or consider the weight preferences and priorities mentioned earlier to make an informed decision based on individual typing style and preferences.
Travel distance
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch have different travel distances. The Blue Lotus has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the New North Pole V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, the Blue Lotus falls on the shallower side with its 3.7 mm, while the New North Pole V2 is closer to the standard 4.0 mm. However, it is worth noting that shorter travel distances have gained popularity, especially among gamers who seek faster response times. If responsiveness is your priority, the Blue Lotus with its shorter travel distance would be the preferred choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and may prefer the deeper feel provided by the New North Pole V2's longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference for either a shorter or longer 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 Gateron New North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the New North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 Blue Lotus switch provides a bassy sound profile during key presses. The lower frequency range gives a deeper and richer tone, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound of the New North Pole V2 switch. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Blue Lotus switch offers an accented tactile experience. It falls into the category of medium tactile switches that provide a noticeable amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, it is described as snappy, meaning it has a super responsive typing experience thanks to longer or dual-staged springs. The Blue Lotus switch also has a stepped feel, meaning it has a mild tactile sensation with some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 switch is described as polished, giving it a smooth and refined typing experience. This smoothness is a result of either the materials used or factory lubrication. The switch offers reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the New North Pole V2 switch is described as creamy, providing a buttery typing experience. This could be due to factory lubrication or specific materials, resulting in a silky sensation while typing. Lastly, the New North Pole V2 switch is also described as frictionless, offering an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys.
In conclusion, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Lotus switch provides a bassy sound profile and a marked tactile feel with snappiness and a stepped sensation. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 switch offers a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. While the sound qualities of the New North Pole V2 switch are unknown, it is likely to provide a smooth and satisfying typing experience similar to the Blue Lotus switch due to its polished and creamy attributes. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on the user's preference for a specific sound profile and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch, you should choose it if you are seeking a medium-heavy switch with a marked tactile feel. The Blue Lotus switches offer a blend of tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, making them perfect for those who enjoy a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the detachable light column allows for vibrant RGB illumination, adding to the captivating visual appeal. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-bottom out force and prioritize a crisper typing experience, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch would be the better choice. The removal of the rubber dampener allows for a frictionless typing feel, while maintaining the seamless glide and smoothness characteristic of the North Pole lineup. The New North Pole V2s are described as polished, creamy, and frictionless, offering a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on your preferences for weight, tactile feel, and typing experience.
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