Durock Blue Lotus vs. Gazzew U4Tx

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gazzew U4Tx. Both are tactile switches, offering a satisfying tactile feedback while typing. The Blue Lotus is known for its striking blend of tactile intensity and swift responsiveness. With its slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm, these switches deliver a marked tactile feel that enthusiasts will appreciate. Additionally, the Blue Lotus switches come with a detachable light column for vibrant RGB illumination, making them visually appealing. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches offer a refined sound profile, combining the deep, resonant "thock" of the U4T when bottoming out with the whisper-quiet stealth of the U4 when topping out. Each keystroke provides a sharp and satisfying tactile bump, ensuring a luxurious typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your specific needs.

By the numbers

Durock Blue Lotus Tactile

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The Durock Blue Lotus and the Gazzew U4Tx switches differ in their housing materials, which ultimately affect the overall feel and sound of each switch. The Blue Lotus features a modified PC and UPE blend top housing, while the U4Tx utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing. These top housings contribute to the unique characteristics of each switch. The Blue Lotus's modified PC and UPE blend top housing provides it with a premium feel and potentially enhances the typing experience. Conversely, the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," offers a softer and more rich sound profile during typing.

In terms of the bottom housings, the Durock Blue Lotus incorporates a nylon bottom housing, known for its ability to produce a deep and full sound profile. The nylon material's softness allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder and more dull sound overall. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx implements its proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, which is also referred to as "boba plastic." This specific plastic blend brings about a rich and deep sound profile, similar to the nylon bottom housing of the Blue Lotus. Both the nylon and Gazzew blend bottom housings contribute significantly to the sound and feel of these switches.

While the two switches differ in their housing materials, it's important to note that the top and bottom housings play distinct roles when it comes to the overall switch experience. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing predominantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, the Blue Lotus's nylon bottom housing may offer a slightly different bottom-out experience compared to the U4Tx's Gazzew blend bottom housing. However, when releasing a key, the impact on sound and feel comes primarily from the top housing. In this aspect, the modified PC and UPE blend top housing of the Blue Lotus and the Gazzew blend top housing of the U4Tx may exhibit similar sound characteristics upon key release.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, both switches have a bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating a medium-heavy feel. However, the actuation force of the Blue Lotus is 55 grams, while the actuation force of the U4Tx is unavailable. This means that the Blue Lotus requires a slightly lighter force to trigger a keystroke compared to the U4Tx.

Considering weight as a factor, a lighter actuation force is preferred by those who need to type for extended periods, such as for work or long gaming sessions. The lighter actuation force of the Blue Lotus would be advantageous for these individuals, allowing them to type for longer without experiencing as much fatigue. On the other hand, some users prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, the heavier actuation force of the U4Tx (although the exact weight is unknown) may be more suitable.

In terms of bottom out force, both switches have the same weight, so regardless of the chosen switch, users can expect a medium-heavy typing experience when fully pressing down the keys. Overall, the Durock Blue Lotus is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Gazzew U4Tx offers a potentially heavier typing experience.

Travel distance

The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both of these switches have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, may prefer the shorter travel distance offered by these switches. The Blue Lotus, being slightly longer in travel distance, may provide a more "hearty" depth to the key press for those who enjoy a more tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and whether one values a shorter or longer travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, both the Durock Blue Lotus and Gazzew U4Tx switches share a similar quality. They are both described as "bassy" switches, offering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. This lower frequency range gives a sense of depth and richness associated with bass tones. However, the U4Tx switches have an additional quality of being "muted." This means that they produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of board and keycaps.

In terms of feel, the Blue Lotus switches are described as "accented," "snappy," and "stepped." The "accented" quality refers to a medium tactile switch that provides a noticeable amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. The "snappy" attribute indicates that these switches are super responsive, likely due to longer or dual-staged springs, making the typing experience feel more alive. Lastly, the "stepped" feature means that the tactile feedback of the Blue Lotus switches feels more mild compared to hypertactile switches. There is a sense of pre-travel and/or post-travel, giving a more nuanced experience. On the other hand, the U4Tx switches are described as "sharp" tactile switches. This means they have a high feedback intensity, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress.

Overall, the Blue Lotus switches excel in their tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, making them ideal for those who enjoy a prominent tactile feel. They also come with a detachable light column for RGB illumination, adding visual appeal to their performance. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches offer a cleaner, refined sound profile with a combination of a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out sound. They provide a sharp and satisfying tactile bump, ensuring a luxurious typing experience both acoustically and tactically. While the sound qualities are similar between the two switches, the Blue Lotus focuses on accentuated tactility and snappiness, while the U4Tx emphasizes sharp tactile feedback and a more muted sound. Depending on personal preferences, these switches offer distinct options for a satisfying typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a marked tactile feel and vibrant RGB illumination, the Durock Blue Lotus switches would be an excellent choice for you. With their slightly reduced travel and medium-heavy bottom out force, these switches deliver a swift and snappy typing experience. Additionally, the Blue Lotus switches are described as accented, snappy, and stepped, providing a medium tactile feel without being overwhelming. On the other hand, if you value a refined sound profile and a luxurious typing experience, the Gazzew U4Tx switches would be more suitable for you. These switches offer a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out sound. They also provide a sharp and satisfying tactile bump, ensuring an acoustically pleasing experience. Moreover, the U4Tx switches are described as sharp, further enhancing the high feedback intensity. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for both sound and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Blue Lotus Tactile

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more