Durock Blue Lotus vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introduction:
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer distinct typing experiences are the Durock Blue Lotus and the SP-Star Polaris Gray. The Blue Lotus switches by Durock are revered for their remarkable tactile feel and swift responsiveness. With a slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm, these switches provide users with an intensified tactile sensation, making them an ideal choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback. In addition to their performance, the Blue Lotus switches also feature a detachable light column, allowing for vibrant RGB illumination that adds a captivating visual appeal to the keyboard. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches from SP-Star are beloved for their bouncy typing experience and clean, clacky sound profile. With categories like "Low-pitched," "Neutral," "Mild," "Thocky," and "Polished," these switches offer a different typing sensation, appealing to individuals who prefer a smoother and more consistent typing experience. 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
67g
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 the SP-Star Polaris Gray differ in their housing materials. The Blue Lotus features a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, while the Polaris Gray utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The Blue Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend housing provides a unique and premium feel, whereas the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting. However, both switches offer a distinct and satisfying typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Blue Lotus is equipped with a nylon bottom housing, while the Polaris Gray employs a polycarbonate bottom housing. Typing on switches that use nylon, like the Blue Lotus, elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound. Conversely, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Gray contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. Aesthetically, clear housings are more likely to feature polycarbonate, making it a popular choice for switches with RGB lighting.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by each housing material are split between the top and bottom housings of a switch. When pressing down on either the Blue Lotus or the Polaris Gray, the bottom housing's characteristics will be more noticeable, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will have a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users will achieve similar results with either the Durock Blue Lotus or the SP-Star Polaris Gray.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of weight, the Blue Lotus is lighter with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Polaris Gray is not specified, but it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is also considered medium-heavy.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Blue Lotus would be a suitable choice as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This makes it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. However, individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Polaris Gray with its slightly heavier bottom out force. This can provide a satisfying and tactile typing experience.
It is worth noting that while the actuation force of the Polaris Gray is unknown, it is likely to be similar to the actuation force of the Blue Lotus, as both switches fall into the medium-heavy category for their bottom out forces. Therefore, users can expect comparable results in terms of actuation force between the two switches, despite the difference in their bottom out forces.
Ultimately, the decision between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch comes down to personal preference. Those seeking a lighter and more maneuverable typing experience may opt for the Blue Lotus, while those who prefer a stronger and more substantial keystroke may lean towards the Polaris Gray.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch is 3.7 mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional standards, the Polaris Gray fits the most common 4.0 mm travel distance, while the Blue Lotus falls on the shallower end at 3.7 mm. However, it is worth noting that shorter travel distances have become prevalent, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Blue Lotus with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper and more substantial keystroke may find the Polaris Gray with its slightly longer travel distance to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and individual typing or gaming needs.
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 SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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 are best described as bassy. These switches offer a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches have a low-pitched sound profile. These switches typically feature a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, the Polaris Gray switches are also described as neutral, meaning they have a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes. They are also thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Overall, both switches offer pleasing sound profiles, with the Blue Lotus switches being bassy and the Polaris Gray switches having a low-pitched thocky sound.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switches have several qualities. They are accented, meaning they provide a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, making them a medium tactile switch. These switches are also described as snappy, indicating their super responsiveness, which can be attributed to longer or dual-staged springs. Additionally, the Blue Lotus switches are stepped, meaning they feel like they have two stages with some pre-travel and/or post-travel, providing a more mild tactile experience compared to hypertactile switches.
In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches have a mild feel. These switches offer a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. They provide a safe, middle-ground feel that should be approachable to most users. Furthermore, the Polaris Gray switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This can be attributed to the materials used and/or factory lubing, which reduce friction and provide smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Durock Blue Lotus switches are known for their snappy and stepped feel, offering a medium tactile experience that is not overwhelming. The switches have a bassy sound profile, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches offer a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The switches have a low-pitched thocky sound profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Overall, both switches have their unique qualities and cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, it is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a marked tactile feel and vibrant RGB illumination, the Durock Blue Lotus switches would be an excellent choice for you. They have a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and offer a snappy typing experience with slightly reduced travel. Additionally, the Blue Lotus switches are described as accented and snappy, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming.
On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience and clean, clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches would be a great option. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, these linear switches offer a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. The Polaris Gray switches are described as low-pitched, neutral, and thocky, giving you a more bass-heavy and mellow tone with deep, rich sounds when pressed and released. They also offer a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction.
Ultimately, the decision between the Durock Blue Lotus and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches will depend on your preferences for tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing experience. Consider whether you prioritize a marked tactile feel with vibrant RGB illumination or a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile. Both switches offer their own unique qualities, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences for an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience.
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