Durock Blue Lotus vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, preferences can vary widely among typists and gamers alike, with each switch offering a unique experience. The Durock Blue Lotus stands out as a tactile switch, delivering a remarkable combination of tactile intensity and rapid responsiveness thanks to its slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate not just the feedback of a pronounced tactile bump, but also the added visual flair provided by its detachable light column for RGB illumination. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g offers a smooth linear experience that prioritizes a quiet typing environment, making it an excellent choice for light typists who favor serenity over sound. With its ultra-light bottom out force of just 43g, the Silent Sakura is designed for those seeking a subtle touch, perfect for extended typing sessions without distractions. Both switches cater to different user needs and preferences, but which one aligns best with your typing style? 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
37g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches present both similarities and distinctions that significantly influence the typing experience. The Durock Blue Lotus features a top housing made of a modified blend of polycarbonate (PC) and UPE, providing a unique and premium tactile response. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g utilizes classic nylon for its top housing, which is known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Typers may find that while both switches deliver a satisfying experience, the characteristics of sound and feel differ markedly due to the inherent properties of each housing material.
When examining the bottom housings, the Durock Blue Lotus employs nylon, which further contributes to the warmer sound profile associated with this switch. Just like the Silent Sakura - 43g, its bottom housing also uses polycarbonate, leading to a sharper and crisper sound. This juxtaposition creates a unique dynamic; the softness of the nylon in the Blue Lotus allows for a more muted bottom-out sound, while the polycarbonate bottom of the Silent Sakura sharpens auditory feedback during key presses. Thus, the combination of a softer top in the Durock Blue Lotus with a nylon bottom results in a rounded auditory experience, while the sharpness of polycarbonate in the Silent Sakura delivers heightened clarity.
Ultimately, each switch's housing materials contribute to an overall typing experience shaped by both sound and tactile feedback. While the Durock Blue Lotus emphasizes a hybrid feel with the blend of PC and UPE on the top and nylon on the bottom, the Silent Sakura - 43g achieves a classic response with its nylon top and polycarbonate bottom. Despite the differences in materials, users can expect comparable satisfying results in terms of feedback and sound. Those who prioritize a richer acoustic profile may gravitate towards the Blue Lotus, while enthusiasts enjoying the clearer resonance of polycarbonate may prefer the Silent Sakura. Regardless of choice, adept users will appreciate the nuanced acoustics and tactile experiences each switch affords.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Blue Lotus has a significantly heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it more suited for those who prefer a substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura offers a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, appealing to users who may benefit from a less strenuous keypress, perfect for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Consequently, the Silent Sakura is the lighter option, while the Blue Lotus is the heavier switch. As such, users looking for a softer touch and less fatigue should lean towards the Silent Sakura, while those desiring a firmer feedback and stronger push feel would likely prefer the Blue Lotus.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Blue Lotus features a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Silent Sakura has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This makes the Blue Lotus the shorter option, appealing to those who prefer a more responsive feel, which is often favored by gamers looking for quicker keypress reactions. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more pronounced and hearty depth that some users find more satisfying. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a more traditional, deeper typing 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 HMX Silent Sakura - 43g 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
The sound profile of the Durock Blue Lotus switch is notably bassy, providing a deeper and richer auditory feedback during typing. This sound resembles the depth and resonance associated with lower frequency tones, allowing for a more immersive typing experience. The substantial acoustic presence can be appealing for those who enjoy the auditory satisfaction of each keystroke. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g is specifically designed to deliver a whisper-quiet typing experience. Its muted characteristics render it nearly silent, akin to the gentle sound of raindrops, making it an excellent choice for environments where noise reduction is paramount. However, the specific sound characteristics of these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Blue Lotus offers a compelling tactile experience described as accented and snappy, providing a prominent tactile bump that is neither overwhelming nor too subtle. This "medium tactile" sensation, combined with its quick responsiveness, ensures that typists can enjoy an energized and dynamic interaction with the switch. The stepped tactile nature of the Blue Lotus allows for distinct stages in the keystroke, enhancing the overall engagement during typing. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 43g lacks detailed descriptions regarding its tactile feel, but it is designed for light typists seeking a smooth, serenity-focused experience, likely offering a linear feel without the pronounced tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Blue Lotus and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches cater to quite different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Lotus is characterized by its rich, bassy sound and responsive, tactile typing experience, making it ideal for users who appreciate feedback in both auditory and physical forms. Conversely, the Silent Sakura is aimed at those desiring a quieter, more understated experience, perfect for light typists and quieter environments. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize the pronounced feedback and sound of the Blue Lotus or the serene and muted interaction of the Silent Sakura.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch ultimately comes down to your typing preferences and the environment in which you plan to use your keyboard. If you thrive on tactile feedback and enjoy a snappy, responsive experience while typing, the Blue Lotus will serve you well. Its medium-heavy actuation force and distinctly accented feel cater to users who appreciate pronounced tactile sensations and a deeper, bassy sound profile, making it a great fit for both a gaming and professional setup where keystroke feedback is valued. Conversely, if you seek a lightweight, subtle, and quiet typing experience, the Silent Sakura - 43g is your best option. Its ultra-light actuation force makes it ideal for users who prefer a serene environment, such as a shared workspace or home office. With its gentle touch and almost silent operation, you can type away without disturbing those around you. In essence, consider your own typing style and the setting of your keyboard use to make the best decision for your needs.
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