Durock Blue Lotus vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preferences in tactile feedback and typing experience. The Durock Blue Lotus switches are heralded for their pronounced tactile feedback and quick responsiveness, making them a top pick for users who crave a more dynamic interaction with their keyboard. With a shorter actuation distance of 3.7mm, these accented and snappy switches provide both performance and eye-catching RGB illumination thanks to their detachable light column. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura switches present a contrasting experience with their linear design, prioritizing a smooth and feather-light feel that enhances comfort during long typing sessions. While the Sakura may lack the tactile feedback of its Blue Lotus counterpart, its medium acoustics can deliver a pleasant auditory experience. Ultimately, whether you choose the vibrant and tactile Blue Lotus or the smooth and effortless Sakura will depend on your specific typing style and preferences. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Durock Blue Lotus and the Huano Sakura switches, the choice of top housing material showcases a distinct divergence in material properties and implications for switch performance. The Blue Lotus features a modified PC & UPE blend for its top housing, which is celebrated for its unique and premium feel. This blend likely allows for a more refined tactile experience and contributes to a balanced sound profile during keypresses. In contrast, the Sakura employs a POK top housing made from polyketone, known for its excellent durability and low coefficient of friction. While both materials aim to enhance the overall user experience, the POK's exceptional wear and shock resistance may allow the Sakura to endure more rigorous use without losing its smoothness, potentially resulting in a different sonic signature when pressed.
On the other hand, both the Durock Blue Lotus and Huano Sakura utilize nylon for their bottom housings, highlighting a shared characteristic that impacts the sound profile and tactile feedback of both switches. Nylon is renowned for its ability to absorb sound, which creates a deeper and more resonant bottom-out sound when typing. This similarity indicates that, despite the differing top housings, users can expect a similar auditory experience during the bottoming action due to the properties of the nylon utilized in the bottom housings of both switches. The recognition of this common ground helps existing switch enthusiasts understand the foundational acoustic qualities that will be present in both options.
The difference in top housing materials between the Blue Lotus and Sakura means that while both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience due to their nylon bottom housings, their upper sound profiles will vary. The Blue Lotus may deliver a more nuanced sound, benefiting from the advantages of the modified PC and UPE blend, whereas the Sakura will likely reflect the resilience and smooth acoustics of the POK material. Consequently, each switch will appeal to different preferences, with the Durock Blue Lotus potentially attracting users who prioritize a premium tactile experience, while the Huano Sakura may appeal to those looking for enhanced durability and dependable smoothness, while still providing a similar bottom-out auditory experience.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to diverse user preferences. The Blue Lotus features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it suitable for those who favor a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Sakura switch has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, appealing to users who prioritize a lighter feel for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. As a result, the Blue Lotus switch is better suited for individuals seeking a firmer push sensation, while the Sakura offers a more delicate touch. Therefore, for users who prefer an overall lighter switch, the Huano Sakura is the clear choice, whereas those who enjoy a medium-heavy switch should opt for the Durock Blue Lotus.
Travel distance
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch have slightly different travel distances, which can influence user experience. The Blue Lotus features a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Sakura has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Sakura the shorter option by 0.1 mm. For gamers seeking faster response times, the reduced travel distance of the Sakura may be more appealing; however, the Blue Lotus provides a slightly more pronounced depth, which some users may find preferable for a more tactile feel. Ultimately, while both switches are relatively close in travel distance, the Blue Lotus may cater to those who appreciate a bit more depth in their keystrokes.
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 Huano Sakura comes in at $3.50 per 10 switches.
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 characteristics, the Durock Blue Lotus switches present a distinctively bassy tone, delivering a deeper and richer auditory experience during typing. This low-frequency sound can be both satisfying and immersive, much like the warmth of bass notes in music. In contrast, the Huano Sakura switches feature medium acoustics that lend themselves well to longer typing sessions without causing fatigue from overwhelming sound. While the Blue Lotus offers a more resonant acoustic experience, the Sakura’s subtler sound profile allows for quieter typing without sacrificing too much clarity. Ultimately, your choice of board and keycaps will also have considerable influence on the sound these switches produce.
In terms of tactile feel, the Blue Lotus switches shine with their well-defined tactile feedback. Described as accented, snappy, and stepped, they offer a robust typing experience that strikes a balance between notable tactility and smoothness. The snappiness is accentuated by their slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm, making each keystroke feel quick and responsive. On the other hand, the feel of the Sakura switches remains largely unknown, but given their feather-light touch is ideal for extended typing sessions, they likely provide a very different experience that skews towards a smoother, linear response without tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while the Durock Blue Lotus switches are characterized by their deep, bassy sound and vibrant tactile response, the Huano Sakura switches provide a more subdued auditory experience with an emphasis on extended comfort. The Blue Lotus is well-suited for those who prefer a pronounced tactile feel, while the Sakura aims for a feather-light experience ideal for long typing marathons. Depending on your specificity for sound and tactile feedback, both switches cater to different typing preferences, and your existing setup may enhance or mitigate the inherent qualities of either switch.
Conclusion
In summary, your choice between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing style and preferences. If you favor a more tactile feedback while typing, the Blue Lotus is an excellent choice; its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams, complemented by its snappy and pronounced tactile feel, makes it ideal for both gaming and typing situations where you appreciate distinct actuation. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a deeper auditory feedback, as its bassy sound profile adds an engaging element to each key press. On the other hand, if you are looking for a lighter typing experience, perhaps for extended periods of use, or prefer smoother and quieter key presses, the Huano Sakura would be more appropriate with its feather-light touch and 45-gram actuation force. These switches are also perfect if you’re focused on speed and efficiency, thanks to their linear nature, which offers a smoother transition between keystrokes without the tactile bump to slow you down. Consider your typical tasks—whether you prioritize tactile feedback or a light touch—as you decide which switch aligns best with your individual needs.
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