Durock Blue Lotus vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that both offer unique advantages are the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron North Pole V2. The Blue Lotus switches from Durock are renowned for their impressive combination of tactile intensity and swift responsiveness. With a slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm, these switches provide a snappy and satisfying tactile feel that enthusiasts appreciate. Additionally, their detachable light column allows for vibrant and captivating RGB illumination, adding a visual appeal to their performance. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switches are best described as gummy, delivering a deep and muted sound profile and a chewy typing feel. This linear switch offers a creamy and subdued typing experience, with a touch of bounce and polish. Both switches have their unique strengths, but exploring further will help you make the best decision for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Housing materials
The Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron North Pole V2 have contrasting housing materials that contribute to their unique characteristics. The Blue Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, while the North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The Blue Lotus's modified PC and UPE Blend provides a premium and distinct feel, while the polycarbonate top housing of the North Pole V2 creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for those who wish to use RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Blue Lotus utilizes a nylon material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing. Similar to its top housing, the polycarbonate adds to the overall clarity and resonance of the sound profile. It is worth noting that the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the key press, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
While the housing materials of the Blue Lotus and the North Pole V2 differ, they both offer unique qualities that enhance the overall experience. The modified PC and UPE Blend of the Blue Lotus top housing provides a premium touch, while the polycarbonate top housing of the North Pole V2 enables a crisper sound and is ideal for RGB lighting. Additionally, both switches feature a different bottom housing material - nylon for the Blue Lotus and polycarbonate for the North Pole V2. The nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate counterpart contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, whether you prefer the unique feel and sound of the Blue Lotus or the clarity and resonance of the North Pole V2, both switches offer a distinct typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, there are notable similarities and differences. The Blue Lotus has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the North Pole V2's 50 grams. This means that the Blue Lotus requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 65 grams, which indicates that they provide a similar level of resistance when pressed all the way down.
Considering weight in relation to typing experience, those who prefer a lighter switch may find the North Pole V2 more suitable as it requires a slightly lighter actuation force. This can be advantageous for individuals who engage in longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions, as it may reduce the strain on the fingers and allow for increased endurance.
On the other hand, those who prefer a stronger push and a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Blue Lotus with its slightly higher actuation force. This heavier force can provide a tactile feedback and a satisfying resistance during each keystroke.
In summary, while both switches share the same bottom out force, the Blue Lotus has a slightly higher actuation force, making it a slightly heavier option. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience, with the Blue Lotus offering a slightly stronger push and the North Pole V2 providing a lighter touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, we can see that the Blue Lotus has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the North Pole V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm. These numbers indicate that the North Pole V2 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Blue Lotus. In terms of preference, shorter travel distances are often favored by gamers who prioritize faster response times. The shorter travel distance of the Blue Lotus would be more suitable for such individuals. However, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the longer travel distance of the North Pole V2 to be more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and desired typing or gaming experience.
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 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 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Blue Lotus switches offer a deep and rich bassy sound profile during key presses. This type of sound is characterized by a lower frequency range, similar to the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switches produce a more subdued sound. While not completely silent, they offer a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be affected by factors such as the keyboard frame and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switches provide an accented tactile experience. They fall into the category of medium tactile switches, offering a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. These switches are also described as snappy and stepped, meaning they are highly responsive and may have a two-stage feel with pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switches offer a gummy typing feel. This unique experience can be compared to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Additionally, the North Pole V2 switches are described as creamy, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience. They have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Furthermore, these switches offer a bouncy feedback sensation, giving you rebound when pressed.
In conclusion, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switches and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switches have distinct subjective qualities. The Blue Lotus switches offer a bassy sound profile, paired with an accented and snappy tactile feel. They provide a marked tactile experience without feeling overwhelming. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 switches have a subdued sound and offer a gummy typing feel. They provide a creamy and polished typing experience, while also offering a bouncy feedback sensation. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, catering to different preferences. However, if you are looking for a deeper and richer sound profile with a marked tactile feel, the Blue Lotus switches may be the better choice. If you prefer a more subdued sound and a gummy typing feel with a smooth and buttery experience, the North Pole V2 switches would be a suitable option.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a marked tactile feel and vibrant RGB illumination, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, the medium-heavy weight provides a satisfying typing experience. The Blue Lotus switches are accented, snappy, and stepped, offering a blend of tactile intensity and swift responsiveness. In terms of sound, they are characterized as bassy, providing a deep and rich sound profile during key presses.
On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a unique typing experience and a deep, muted sound profile, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is the one for you. With the same bottom out force of 65 grams, this medium-heavy switch offers a satisfying chewy typing feel. The North Pole V2 switches are gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with a spring-like feedback sensation. In terms of sound, they are described as subdued, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches.
Ultimately, your choice between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch depends on your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile. Consider your typing style, desired feel, and the overall experience you want from your mechanical keyboard to make the best decision for your needs.
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