Gateron Mini i vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Gateron Mini i, a tactile switch, and the Durock White Lotus, also a tactile switch. The Gateron Mini i switches are known for their gentle tactility, offering a satisfying typing experience without the noisy clack often associated with mechanical keyboards. These switches are lightweight and perfect for long hours of comfortable typing, making them ideal for office settings where a quiet professionalism is required. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switches are designed with the discerning typist in mind, offering a delicate tactility that is perfect for work and extended typing sessions. Additionally, the White Lotus switches feature removable light columns that allow for vibrant RGB lighting effects, adding a visually captivating element to your keyboard setup. Both switches excel in offering a smooth typing experience, but the Gateron Mini i is more suited for a quiet office environment, while the Durock White Lotus adds a touch of elegance and visual appeal to your typing experience. 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
40g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and the Durock White Lotus switches both offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic material used. Both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. This commonality ensures that users will experience similar typing experiences in terms of sound when using either switch.
However, where they differ is in their top housing materials. The Mini i utilizes nylon for its top housing, while the White Lotus features a modified PC & UPE Blend housing. The unique blend of PC and UPE in the White Lotus switch provides a premium feel that is not found in the Mini i. This difference in top housing material may result in a slightly different typing experience, with the White Lotus potentially offering a more premium feel compared to the Mini i.
In terms of the impact on sound, the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This means that the unique blend of PC and UPE in the White Lotus may result in a different bottom-out sound compared to the nylon housing of the Mini i, offering users a variety of typing experiences to choose from based on their preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, we see that the Mini i is lighter with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. On the other hand, the White Lotus is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams. Both switches fall in the lighter to medium-light range, making them suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. Users who prefer a softer touch may lean towards the Mini i, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may opt for the White Lotus. Overall, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, with the choice between them ultimately coming down to personal preference.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Durock White Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Durock White Lotus has a longer travel distance compared to the Gateron Mini i. The 3.4 mm travel distance of the Gateron Mini i falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a popular choice for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Durock White Lotus provides a deeper, more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the level of responsiveness desired. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different user preferences, so you can expect varying results based on your choice.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock White 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 White Lotus for $4.57.
The Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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 Gateron Mini i switch offers a neutral profile that strikes a balance between actuation force and sound, making it suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switch is described as having a low-pitched sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer a moderate sound profile, with the White Lotus leaning towards a deeper tone, and the Mini i maintaining a neutral sound suitable for most users. Ultimately, the sound of the switch will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Mini i switch is known for its bouncy and easy-to-press characteristics, providing a lively and responsive typing experience. Additionally, it offers a subtle resistance that is suitable for shared spaces. Conversely, the Durock White Lotus switch also offers an easy-to-press and mild typing experience, catering to those looking for a gentle and approachable feel. Furthermore, it provides a subtle resistance that is suitable for quiet working environments. Both switches offer a comfortable and low-impact typing feel, with slight differences in the specific sensations they provide.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offer subtle and comfortable typing experiences with moderate sound profiles. While the Mini i switch provides a neutral sound and bouncy feel, ideal for versatile use, the White Lotus switch features a low-pitched sound and easy-to-press feel, tailored for discerning typists. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing feel, as both switches offer similar qualities that prioritize comfort and performance.
Conclusion
In sum, when choosing between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, consider the specific aspects of each switch that align with your typing preferences and needs. If you prioritize a lightweight touch and a quiet, office-friendly typing experience, the Gateron Mini i switch with its subtle tactility and neutral sound profile may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a delicate tactile feel with the added feature of customizable RGB lighting effects, the Durock White Lotus switch offers a light touch and a low-pitched sound profile, making it a suitable option for both work and extended typing sessions. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how these characteristics align with your typing style and environment to enhance your overall typing experience.
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