Durock Blue Lotus vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Durock Blue Lotus, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, a linear switch. The Blue Lotus is praised for its distinctive tactile intensity and quick responsiveness, making it a preferred choice for those who enjoy a pronounced tactile feel while typing. Additionally, the Blue Lotus features a slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm, enhancing its snappiness. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° from Gateron is renowned for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, providing unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound for silent typing. Although both switches have their unique advantages, determining the best switch ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific typing needs. However, let's delve deeper beyond these general characteristics to help you make an informed decision on the ideal switch for your keyboard.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both feature top housing made of different materials. The Blue Lotus boasts a modified PC & UPE Blend housing, providing a unique and premium feel. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer durability and a solid build quality, the UPE Blend housing may provide a softer and more luxurious typing experience compared to the stiffer polycarbonate housing.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the Blue Lotus and the Zero Degree 0° utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for producing a deep and full sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Despite the similar choice of material for the bottom housing, the design and structure of each switch may still affect the overall typing experience. It is worth noting that the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience one is looking for. While both switches offer quality housing materials in their own right, the UPE Blend top housing of the Blue Lotus may provide a more luxurious feel, whereas the polycarbonate top housing of the Zero Degree 0° offers a sharper and crisper sound profile. Both switches deliver a deep and full sound profile with their nylon bottom housing, showcasing the classic qualities of this material in creating a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Lotus requires a heavier force for both actuation and bottom out compared to the Zero Degree 0°. The Blue Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Zero Degree 0° for longer typing or gaming sessions, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Blue Lotus for a stronger push feel. The actuation force determines the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures pressing all the way down on the switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them ideal for those who prefer quicker response times. However, the Blue Lotus has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keypresses. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers or typists looking for an even faster and more responsive feel. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, so the choice between the two may come down to personal preference for a slightly longer or shorter keypress feel.
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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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, the Durock Blue Lotus switch is known for its deep and rich bassy sound profile during key presses, providing a satisfying auditory experience for users. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch boasts a silent typing experience, absorbing sound and reducing noise due to its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, so the choice between them will ultimately depend on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switch is widely regarded for its accented and snappy tactile response, providing a medium level of tactility that is responsive and engaging. Additionally, the stepped design of the Blue Lotus switch offers a unique typing experience with distinct pre-travel and post-travel sensations. Conversely, the feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch is not specified in the information provided, suggesting that it may offer a more uniform and consistent linear feel without any tactile feedback. Users who prefer a smoother and more predictable typing experience may find the Zero Degree 0° switch to be more suitable for their needs.
In conclusion, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. While the Blue Lotus switch delivers a tactile and responsive typing experience with a unique sound profile, the Zero Degree 0° switch prioritizes silent operation and smooth linear key presses. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for tactile feedback, sound profile, and overall typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Blue Lotus offering a more tactile response and distinct sound, while the Zero Degree 0° provides a smooth, silent keystroke.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider the following guidelines: Opt for the Blue Lotus if you prioritize a tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams. The Blue Lotus is best suited for those who enjoy a marked tactile feel, snappiness, and vibrant RGB illumination. On the other hand, choose the Gateron Zero Degree 0° if you prefer a linear switch with a bottom out force of None grams. The Zero Degree 0° stands out for its revolutionary design that delivers unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that reduces noise during typing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for tactile vs. linear switches and the specific qualities each switch offers for your typing experience.
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