Durock Black Lotus Linear Switches

This linear mechanical switch suits users who prefer smooth, consistent keypresses without tactile feedback or audible clicks. It fits well for gamers and typists seeking a moderate actuation force with a clean keystroke. It is not designed for those needing quiet operation or tactile response.

Feel & Sound

The switch offers a smooth linear feel with no tactile bump or click, resulting in a consistent keystroke. It is not silent and produces typical mechanical switch sound, which may be noticeable in quiet environments. The bottom-out feel is firm due to the higher bottom-out force, providing clear feedback when fully pressed.

Actuation Characteristics

It actuates at a moderate force level, requiring 55 grams to register a keypress, which balances responsiveness and resistance. The pre-travel distance is short, allowing for quick input, while the total travel is standard, giving a familiar typing depth. The force variance indicates some consistency in feel across keys.

Build Quality

The switch uses a polycarbonate and UPE blend for the top housing, nylon for the bottom housing, and a POM stem, which contribute to durability and smooth stem movement. The gold-plated spring helps reduce corrosion and maintain consistent force over time. Factory lubrication reduces initial scratchiness, improving smoothness out of the box.

Compatibility

It is a PCB-mounted switch with five pins, compatible with most standard mechanical keyboard PCBs. The removable light column supports LED diffusion, making it suitable for keyboards with underglow or backlighting. Hot-swap compatibility is unknown.

Trade-offs

The switch is not silent, so it may not suit noise-sensitive environments. While factory lubed, additional lubrication might be needed for users seeking an even smoother feel. The lack of tactile feedback makes it less ideal for those who prefer a noticeable actuation point. Stem wobble and spring ping are unknown.