Durock Blue Lotus vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Durock Blue Lotus, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Smoothie, a linear switch. The Blue Lotus switches from Durock are known for their tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, offering a marked tactile feel that is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie is celebrated for its all-POM construction, providing a thocky sound signature, smooth keystrokes, and a lightweight touch. While the Blue Lotus switches are characterized as 'Accented', 'Bassy', and 'Snappy', the Gateron Smoothie is described as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched'. Both switches have their own unique features and advantages, offering users a choice between tactile feedback or smooth linear typing experiences. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Blue Lotus utilizes a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, which gives it a unique and premium feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie features a POM top housing that creates a deep and muted sound profile. While the Blue Lotus focuses on providing a tactile and premium typing experience, the Smoothie aims to deliver a more pleasing and unique sound. Despite their differences, both switches offer a high-quality housing material that enhances the overall typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Blue Lotus employs a nylon bottom housing that produces a deep and fuller sound profile. This is due to the relatively softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the Smoothie utilizes a POM bottom housing that also creates a deep and muted sound profile. Both housings contribute to a rounder and more dull sound, making typing on these switches a satisfying experience. The choice between nylon and POM bottom housings ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound and feel during typing.
When comparing the top and bottom housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron Smoothie, it is evident that both switches offer unique qualities that enhance the typing experience. While the Blue Lotus focuses on providing a premium feel with its modified PC & UPE Blend top housing and nylon bottom housing, the Smoothie emphasizes a deep and muted sound profile with its POM top and bottom housings. Despite these differences, typing on both switches is sure to result in a satisfying and enjoyable experience, thanks to the high-quality housing materials used in their construction.
Weight
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams. This means that the Smoothie requires less force to trigger a keystroke, making it lighter in terms of actuation force. On the other hand, the Blue Lotus has a bottom out force of 65 grams, whereas the Smoothie's bottom out force is not specified. This indicates that the Blue Lotus is heavier in terms of bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter, easier typing experience, the Smoothie may be the better option, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Blue Lotus. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7mm compared to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.6mm. While the difference between the two is minimal, the Blue Lotus offers a slightly deeper press. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular for gaming due to faster response times. However, if you prefer a bit more depth in the key press, the Blue Lotus might be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the travel distance of each switch will provide a unique typing experience catered to individual preferences.
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 Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 is known for its bassy sound profile, offering a deeper and richer sound during key presses, which can be quite satisfying for enthusiasts looking for a more pronounced auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch provides a thocky, low-pitched, and subdued sound that is more mellow and less intense compared to the Blue Lotus. When it comes to feel, the Blue Lotus switch is described as accented, snappy, and stepped, providing a medium tactile experience with a responsive and lively typing feel. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie switch offers a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience, emphasizing smoothness and fluidity.
Overall, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch is tailored for users who appreciate a tactile and responsive typing experience with a deeper and more intense sound profile, accentuated by its unique design and vibrant RGB illumination. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch caters to those seeking a smooth and quiet typing experience, with a focus on smoothness and a thocky sound signature. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance the overall keyboarding experience. Ultimately, selecting between the Durock Blue Lotus and Gateron Smoothie switches depends on individual preferences for sound, feel, and visual aesthetics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider your preference for tactile intensity and responsiveness. If you enjoy a marked tactile feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force and vibrant RGB illumination, the Blue Lotus would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, the Smoothie may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing style and sound preferences.
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