Zuoce Lavender vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Zuoce Lavender and the Durock Sea Glass mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches stand out for different reasons. The Lavender switch is renowned for its exceptional smoothness and crisp, clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switch series by Durock offers a unique selection of pastel colors and a distinct dryness and airiness to its typing experience, despite its 62g bottom-out force. While both switches are categorized as easy-to-press, the Lavender switch leans more towards a clacky feel, while the Sea Glass switch offers a more feather-like touch. 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
48g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Zuoce Lavender and the Durock Sea Glass both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the sound profile of the switch. The Lavender features a POM top and bottom housing, which results in a deep and muted sound. In contrast, the Sea Glass utilizes a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top and bottom housing, creating a pleasant and bright sound. While both switches aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience, they achieve this in different ways due to the distinct properties of their housing materials.
Despite their differences, both the Lavender and Sea Glass switches prioritize creating a unique sound profile. The POM material in the Lavender's housing lends itself to a deeper and more muted sound, appealing to users who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Sea Glass's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE results in a brighter sound profile that is still pleasing to the ears. These contrasting sound profiles demonstrate how the choice of housing material can greatly impact the overall typing experience.
When it comes to the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall switch performance, the Zuoce Lavender and Durock Sea Glass showcase this concept well. The bottom housing material typically influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material affects the sound when a key is released. In this way, the Lavender and Sea Glass switches provide users with a balanced typing experience that takes into account the importance of both housing materials in creating a satisfying sound profile. Ultimately, whether you opt for the Lavender or Sea Glass, you can expect to experience a blend of unique qualities that contribute to a pleasant typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, it is evident that the Sea Glass is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Lavender is slightly heavier at 48 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Sea Glass requires 62 grams compared to the Lavender's 53 grams. This makes the Sea Glass a heavier switch overall, providing a more substantial typing experience compared to the medium-light Lavender switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods, the Lavender may be the better choice, while those looking for a stronger push feel may opt for the Sea Glass. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, it's clear that the Lavender has a shorter travel distance at 3.4mm compared to the Sea Glass at 3.8mm. The Lavender's 3.4mm travel distance is ideal for those who prioritize quicker response times, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Sea Glass's slightly longer 3.8mm travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding travel distance and the desired typing experience. Both switches offer unique advantages, but the Lavender excels in providing a faster and more responsive feel, while the Sea Glass caters to those who enjoy a deeper and more pronounced key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
The Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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 Zuoce Lavender linear switch is known for its clacky sound signature, providing a crisp and bright sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch offers a uniquely hollow sound that adds a distinct airiness to the typing experience. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the Lavender being more sharp and percussive while the Sea Glass has a lighter and more hollow sound.
In terms of feel, the Lavender switch is described as easy-to-press, offering a low-impact typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In comparison, the Sea Glass switch is known for its frictionless nature, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. With a weightlessness that defies expectations, the Sea Glass switch offers a feathery feel that is light to press and comfortable for extended use. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience, with the Lavender focusing on easy actuation and the Sea Glass providing a gentle and fluid travel.
Overall, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lavender switch provides a clacky sound with an easy-to-press feel, making it a satisfying choice for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switch offers a hollow sound with a frictionless and feathery feel, ideal for users seeking a smooth and effortless typing experience. Ultimately, both switches excel in different areas, but users can expect a high level of smoothness and satisfaction from either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference in typing experience. If you value a smooth and clacky typing feel with a medium-light bottom-out force, the Lavender switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a weightless and frictionless nature, along with a unique hollow sound signature and pastel color options, the Sea Glass switch may be more suited to your tastes. Consider the sound and feel descriptions provided to further guide your decision based on your personal typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience, so you can't go wrong with either choice.
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