Durock Black Lotus vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Black Lotus and the Cherry MX Brown are two popular options that offer distinct experiences for users. The Black Lotus is a linear switch that is best known for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision. Its reduced housing and stem wobble contribute to maximum typing pleasure, while the 55g actuation weight provides a substantial, yet not too hefty, typing experience. Additionally, the unique light column provides in-switch lighting that can be fully removed if desired. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown is a tactile switch that is characterized by its subtlety. These switches offer a relatively light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. They are best suited for individuals who prefer a textured feel and low-pitched audio when typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Cherry MX Brown switches have some similarities and differences. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, in terms of bottom-out sound and feel, users can expect similar results from both switches.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE blend material, while the MX Brown utilizes nylon. This difference in material brings about distinct characteristics to each switch. The modified PC and UPE blend housing of the Black Lotus contributes to its unique and premium feel. Although the specific qualities of this material are not specified, it can be inferred that it provides a different typing experience compared to the nylon top housing of the MX Brown.
The impact of the top housing becomes evident when releasing a key. While the Black Lotus's top housing material is expected to influence the sound produced during key release, the MX Brown's nylon top housing may have a different effect. Nylon's ability to absorb more sound could potentially result in a quieter and more muted sound when releasing keys on the MX Brown switch.
In summary, while the housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Cherry MX Brown switches share similarities in their nylon bottom housing, the differences in their top housing materials contribute to distinct typing experiences. The modified PC and UPE blend housing of the Black Lotus adds a premium feel, while the nylon top housing of the MX Brown might contribute to a quieter key release sound. Ultimately, personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile will determine which switch is the preferred choice.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, one can observe some notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Black Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the MX Brown requires 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. This means that the MX Brown is lighter in terms of actuation force. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Black Lotus is 63.5 grams, while the MX Brown requires 55 grams to fully press down. Here again, the MX Brown is the lighter option in terms of bottom out force.
The weight of a switch is crucial to consider as it affects the typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the MX Brown more suitable as it requires less force to activate and press down. This lighter actuation force can be advantageous for individuals who wish to type for extended periods, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users prefer a heavier actuation force as it provides a more substantial typing experience. For them, the Black Lotus with its medium-heavy actuation force may be the preferable choice.
While the actuation and bottom out forces differ between the two switches, it is important to note that both switches fall within the medium range. Therefore, if one is seeking a similar result in terms of actuation and bottoming out, both the Black Lotus and the MX Brown can provide a satisfactory experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same distance of travel for both switches. The similarity in travel distance ensures a consistent typing experience for users of either switch. Therefore, whether you opt for the Black Lotus or the MX Brown, you can expect similar results in terms of key travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Black 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 Black Lotus for $4.57.
The Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch offers a unique sound profile that is not explicitly described in the given information. However, with its smooth and polished feel, it is likely to produce a quieter and more refined sound compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is described as having a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. These switches offer a deeper and richer audio feedback during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It is worth noting that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps used, so individual results may vary. Overall, if you are seeking a switch with a subtle and subdued audio feedback, the MX Brown is a solid choice, while the Black Lotus is expected to provide a smoother and quieter typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch is lauded for its silky, buttery, mild, and polished characteristics. These terms collectively imply that the switch offers an exceptionally smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The switch has been designed to enhance the overall smoothness of the typing feel, making it effortless and uniform. Additionally, the polished finish further contributes to a sleek typing experience by reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is described as having a textured feel, which indicates a noticeable friction when pressed. While some users may prefer this subtle texture, others may prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience. Overall, if you prefer a smooth and refined typing feel, the Black Lotus is likely to be a more satisfying choice, while the MX Brown provides a slightly textured tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch stands out for its smoothness, precision, and reduced wobble, providing maximum typing pleasure. With its 55g actuation weight, it offers a substantial yet manageable typing experience. The light column feature allows customizable in-switch lighting and is fully removable. While the subjective sound profile of the Black Lotus is not explicitly mentioned, its smooth and polished feel suggests a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch offers a relatively light typing experience with gentle tactility and a bassy, low-pitched sound profile. If you seek a switch with a refined feel and reduced friction, the Black Lotus is an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a slightly textured tactile feedback, the MX Brown will provide satisfactory results. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-heavy switch with unparalleled precision and minimal wobble, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch is a great option for you. It offers a silky smooth and buttery typing experience, with a substantial 55g actuation weight. The unique light column adds an extra touch of in-switch lighting that can be fully removed if desired. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle and light typing experience, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is a perfect choice. These switches provide gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback, creating a relatively light typing experience. They are known for their subtlety. Additionally, if you enjoy a bassy and low-pitched sound profile during key presses, the Black Lotus switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a textured feel with noticeable friction when pressing keys, the MX Brown switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between the Durock Black Lotus and Cherry MX Brown switches comes down to your specific preferences in terms of weight, smoothness, tactility, sound, and feel.
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