Durock Blue Lotus vs. Huano Strawberry Latte

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between tactile and linear can significantly influence the typing experience. The Durock Blue Lotus, known for its pronounced tactile feedback and snappy responsiveness, offers a travel distance of 3.7mm, slightly shorter than the standard, which enhances its overall quickness while typing. This switch is perfect for those who appreciate a distinct tactile sensation, as well as for gamers wanting a more immediate response. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte presents a fluid typing experience with its linear design, utilizing the latest molds to achieve a super smooth operation. The sound profile is finely balanced—not too quiet, yet not overly resonant—making it ideal for users who seek a stealthier keystroke without compromising on performance. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences: the Blue Lotus for those who relish tactile feedback and vibrant RGB aesthetics, and the Strawberry Latte for those who favor smooth, uninterrupted typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Durock Blue Lotus Tactile

Huano Strawberry Latte Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials used in the Durock Blue Lotus and Huano Strawberry Latte switches highlight contrasting approaches to switch design, specifically in the composition of their top housings. The Blue Lotus employs a modified PC (Polycarbonate) and UPE (Ultra-Polyethylene) blend, distinguished by providing a unique and premium feel due to its engineering for enhanced performance. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte features a POK (polyketone) top housing that touts an exceptionally low coefficient of friction and significant durability advantages over other materials like POM and Nylon. Both materials aim to enhance the tactile experience, but the premium feel of the Blue Lotus’s blend versus the smoothness and wear resistance of the Strawberry Latte’s POK material offers users distinct tactile and auditory outcomes.

The bottom housing for both models, however, is uniform in material—nylon—spotlighting one of the foundational characteristics of these switch designs. Nylon is recognized for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile, as its relatively softer plastic composition allows it to absorb sound more efficiently than harder plastics. The shared use of nylon in the bottom housing means that both switches will provide a similar auditory experience when the switch is bottomed out, contributing to a rounder and more mellow sound quality. This commonality ensures that regardless of the differences present in the top housings, both switches can share similar sound dynamics at the base level.

While the top housings differ significantly in composition and performance characteristics, the harmonious use of nylon in the bottom housings ensures a consistent auditory profile during the bottoming action of both switches. The interaction between the POK and modified PC & UPE Blend top housings gives each switch a unique feel and sound when released, creating an opportunity for users to select based on personal preference for how they wish to experience each switch. Users can expect to achieve similar depth and warmth in their typing sounds, while the nuances of activation and release will depend heavily on the chosen top housing material, ultimately leading to distinct experiences that cater to individual preferences.

Weight

When comparing the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, their actuation and bottom out forces reveal distinct preferences for typists and gamers. The Blue Lotus has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which classifies it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte is noticeably lighter, featuring an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions with less finger fatigue. This disparity means that users who appreciate a more substantial typing experience may prefer the heaviness of the Blue Lotus, while those looking for a featherweight feel might opt for the Strawberry Latte. Since the forces are different, users can expect vastly different typing experiences, with the Blue Lotus offering a more resistant feedback and the Strawberry Latte providing a softer touch.

Travel distance

The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Blue Lotus the longer of the two switches by a mere 0.1 mm. Though the difference is minimal, it may influence user preference based on their individual typing or gaming style. Gamers who prioritize responsiveness might lean towards the Strawberry Latte for its shorter travel distance, which can facilitate quicker keypresses. However, those who appreciate a more substantial feedback feel may find the Blue Lotus's longer travel distance more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference regarding typing experience and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch offers a distinctive bassy tone that gives a deeper and richer auditory experience during key presses. This lower frequency sound profile resonates nicely, making it an appealing choice for users who enjoy a more robust acoustic feedback from their typing. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch is characterized by a balanced sound profile, meaning it neither falls into the realm of being overly quiet nor excessively resonant. However, due to the lack of specific descriptors for its sound characteristics, one might expect that while the Strawberry Latte is smooth, it could be less engaging compared to the pronounced bass of the Blue Lotus.

In terms of feel, the Blue Lotus switches stand out with their medium tactile feedback which offers a combination of accentuated yet not overwhelming tactility. The tactile bump is supplemented by a snappy response, making each keystroke feel lively and animated. Users will also experience a stepped sensation, enhancing the typing precision as they navigate through the different stages of key travel. In contrast, specifics about the feel of the Strawbery Latte's switches are not provided, leaving it uncertain how they compare in terms of tactility or responsiveness. It is known that linear switches typically provide a smoother experience without tactile feedback, which subtly shifts the player’s typing experience.

In conclusion, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switches are designed for users seeking a rich sound and responsive feel characterized by a pronounced tactile bump. Their bassy sound profile adds an engaging auditory dimension to the typing experience, while the snappy and accented feel contributes to an enhanced tactile interaction. On the other hand, the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch offers a smooth experience with a balanced sound, although specifics on their feel remain unclear. For those who value an immersive soundscape and dynamic response, the Blue Lotus is the preferred choice; however, if a quieter and less tactile typing experience is desired, the Strawberry Latte may provide a different yet satisfying alternative.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the kind of experience you want to create. If you appreciate a tactile and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force, the Blue Lotus will likely be your go-to option. Its pronounced tactile feedback and snappy feel cater well to those who enjoy a more immersive interaction with their keyboard, making it particularly suitable for both typists and gamers who desire quick response times. Moreover, if you're someone who enjoys the auditory aspect of typing, the bassy sound profile of the Blue Lotus adds an additional layer of satisfaction to your keystrokes. Conversely, if you prefer a smoother feel with lighter keys for a fast-paced and effortless typing experience, the Strawberry Latte is the better choice. With its lighter actuation force and balanced sound profile, it’s ideal for prolonged typing sessions and fast-paced gaming where quick key presses are essential. Ultimately, your decision may come down to how much you value tactile feedback versus a smooth, linear experience, so consider what aspects matter most to you as you make your selection.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Blue Lotus Tactile

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more

Huano Strawberry Latte Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more