SP-Star RedBlue vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the SP-Star RedBlue and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, you want to find one that suits your typing preferences and enhances your overall typing experience. Enter the SP-Star RedBlue and the Durock White Lotus switches, two distinct options that offer unique features. The RedBlue switches are linear and best suited for those who enjoy a medium-light typing experience. With a higher-pitched sound profile, these switches provide a polished feel and fall into the categories of low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished. On the other hand, the White Lotus switches are tactile and perfect for the discerning typist. They offer a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance, making them ideal for work and extended typing sessions. Additionally, these switches feature a removable light column, allowing for vibrant RGB lighting effects that can add a captivating glow to your keyboard setup. Categorized as easy-to-press, low-pitched, mild, neutral, and subtle, the tranquil typing experience of the White Lotus switches is enhanced by their mesmerizing RGB illumination. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star RedBlue and the Durock White Lotus switches differ in several ways. The RedBlue features a polycarbonate top housing, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for use in the top housing if RGB lighting is a desired feature. In contrast, the White Lotus utilizes a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, providing a unique and premium feel to the switch.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the RedBlue again employs polycarbonate, contributing to the same sound properties as the top housing. The clear nature of polycarbonate in switch housings suggests a sharper and more vibrant sound. On the other hand, the White Lotus opts for a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is well-known as a classic switch housing material, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound effect.
Despite their differences, both switches offer distinct qualities based on their housing materials. If the top and bottom housings differ, the characteristics of each material will manifest in different aspects of typing. When pressing down on either switch, you will feel the impact of the bottom housing, which influences the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key is primarily influenced by the properties of the top housing. Therefore, while their materials may differ, both the RedBlue and White Lotus switches offer unique and desired sound profiles for users.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, their actuation and bottom out forces differ slightly. The actuation force of the RedBlue switch is not known, while the White Lotus has an actuation force of 46 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of 56 grams, which can be considered medium-light. The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider, as it can affect typing comfort and endurance. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the White Lotus would be a suitable choice, as its actuation force is slightly lighter compared to the RedBlue. This lighter actuation force allows for prolonged typing sessions and is ideal for users using the keyboard for work or long gaming sessions. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial key press feel, the RedBlue switch might be a better option since its force requirements for actuation are unknown. Ultimately, both switches provide a medium-light bottom out force, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of force required to press the keys fully.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel a consistent travel distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that you will achieve similar results in terms of key feel and typing experience when using either of these switches. There is no difference in the travel distance between the two switches since they both have a travel distance of 4 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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.
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
In terms of sound, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is best described as having a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. These switches produce a more mellow and bass-heavy tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch also has a low-pitched sound profile, similar to the RedBlue switch. This means that both switches offer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, making them suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is known for providing a mild and polished typing experience. With a more gentle typing feel, these switches offer a safe middle-ground zone that is approachable to most typists. The polished finish of the RedBlue switches ensures smooth and refined key travel, reducing friction and providing a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offers an easy-to-press experience. These switches have a light actuation force, requiring minimal force to activate, resulting in effortless and comfortable typing. The low-impact typing feel of the White Lotus switches reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the subtle resistance and gentle typing feel of the White Lotus switches make them suitable for shared spaces as they produce minimal sound.
In conclusion, both the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offer their own unique qualities. In terms of sound, both switches have a low-pitched profile, with the RedBlue switch having a relatively higher-pitched sound and the White Lotus switch being more mellow. When it comes to feel, the RedBlue switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, while the White Lotus switch is easy-to-press and offers a low-impact typing feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. However, it's important to note that the sound and feel can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In summary, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a relatively higher-pitched sound profile, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a neutral sound profile with a thocky sound when pressed, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users. They provide a mild and polished feel with smooth key travel, offering a sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a light tactile option that strikes the perfect balance between tactility and usability, the Durock White Lotus switch is the ideal choice. These switches have a bottom out force of 56 grams, which is similar to the RedBlue switch. The White Lotus switches offer a delicate tactility that enhances the typing experience without overwhelming the user. They also come with a removable light column, allowing for vibrant and luminous RGB lighting effects.
In terms of sound, both switches feature a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. This means that they produce a bass-heavy and mellow tone, making them suitable for use in both home and work environments.
Overall, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is perfect for those seeking a medium-light linear typing experience with a higher-pitched sound, while the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is designed for those who want a light tactile option with a delicate tactility. Consider your preferences and needs to choose the switch that best suits your typing style and desired experience.
Mentioned in this article
