Durock Blue Lotus vs. Everglide Oreo
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Everglide Oreo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Durock Blue Lotus and the Everglide Oreo. The Blue Lotus switches are known for their striking blend of tactile intensity and swift responsiveness. With a slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm, these switches offer a snappy typing experience that appeals to those who enjoy a pronounced tactile feel. Additionally, the detachable light column adds a vibrant, glowy RGB illumination, combining performance with captivating visual appeal. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo switches provide a different tactile experience. They offer a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out. These switches strike a balance between a satisfying keystroke and a comfortable typing experience. Furthermore, the Oreo switches have a subtle and mellow sound profile, contributing to a pleasant typing experience. However, let's delve deeper into their specific characteristics to help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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 Everglide Oreo differ in their housing materials. The Blue Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, while the Oreo has a polycarbonate top housing. The Blue Lotus's modified PC and UPE Blend housing provides a unique and premium feel, but it does not specify whether it creates a sharper or crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Oreo's polycarbonate top housing is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in material may result in a varying auditory experience when typing or gaming on these switches.
The bottom housings of the Blue Lotus and Oreo also differ in material. The Blue Lotus utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Oreo incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is well-known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic and sound-absorbing qualities. In contrast, the Oreo's polycarbonate bottom housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. These contrasting housing materials may influence the overall sound produced by the switches, especially when bottoming out or releasing a key.
In terms of similarities, both the Blue Lotus and Oreo feature polycarbonate components in their housing materials. The Blue Lotus has a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, while the Oreo has a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it a popular choice for switch enthusiasts. Additionally, both switches emphasize the aesthetic benefits of using polycarbonate, as it offers translucency for RGB lighting. Therefore, while the specific blend of materials may differ, both switches are likely to provide similar results in terms of sound and lighting effects due to the shared use of polycarbonate in their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, it is evident that they have distinct differences. The Blue Lotus has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams, whereas the Oreo requires only 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. This implies that the Oreo provides a lighter and easier typing experience, making it suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter touch and wish to type for longer periods without strain. On the other hand, the Blue Lotus requires a stronger push feel with its higher actuation force, which offers a more substantial typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, the Blue Lotus again outperforms the Oreo with a force of 65 grams compared to the Oreo's 55 grams. This means that the Blue Lotus switch provides a slightly heavier and more pronounced sensation when fully pressed down. Overall, those looking for a medium-heavy tactile switch may find the Blue Lotus to be a suitable choice, while those seeking a medium-light switch may opt for the Oreo. However, if both actuation and bottom out force are the same, users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch have different travel distances. The Blue Lotus has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Oreo has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, the Oreo falls within the most commonly used range of 4.0 mm, while the Blue Lotus is slightly shorter. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Blue Lotus. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper key press experience may lean towards the longer travel distance of the Oreo. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for either a shorter and more responsive feel or a longer and more satisfying depth.
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 Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo for $4.19.
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 produces a sound that can be characterized as bassy. This means that the sound profile is deep and rich, resembling the tones associated with bass. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch has a chirpy sound signature, which sets it apart from other switches with a unique acoustic quality. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Blue Lotus and Oreo switches are described as accented. This means that they provide a prominent amount of tactility that is not overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, both switches are described as stepped, which means they have a mild tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. This provides users with a more nuanced typing experience, allowing them to feel the different stages of the keystroke. The responsiveness of the Blue Lotus switches is highlighted, attributed to its slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm compared to the standard 4mm, adding to the snappiness of the switch. The Oreo switches also offer a cushioned sensation when bottoming out, ensuring a comfortable typing experience.
Overall, the Blue Lotus switches from Durock and the Oreo switches from Everglide have their own distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Lotus switches deliver a marked tactile feel with a snappy and accented tactile experience. The Oreo switches, on the other hand, provide a medium light tactility with a subtle and mellow sound profile. Both switches strike a balance between satisfying keystrokes and comfortable typing experiences. It is important to consider personal preferences and other factors such as keyboard and keycap choices when selecting the most suitable switch. However, based on the available information, users can expect similar results in terms of tactile intensity and responsiveness from both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a marked tactile feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switches are the way to go. They offer a swift and responsive typing experience with their snappy feel and slightly reduced travel distance. Additionally, the detachable light column adds a vibrant and glowy RGB illumination, making them visually appealing. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a balanced tactile experience, the Everglide Oreo switches are a great choice. These switches provide a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out. They offer a comfortable typing experience with a subtle and mellow sound profile. Both switches are described as accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. Ultimately, the decision between the Blue Lotus and Oreo switches depends on your preference for the bottom out force, tactile intensity, and sound profile.
Mentioned in this article
