Durock Black Lotus vs. TTC Brother
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Brother switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the TTC Brother clicky switch, it becomes clear that each offers unique benefits tailored to different preferences. The Black Lotus is praised for its silky smooth feel and precision, with a 55g actuation weight that strikes a balance between substantial and comfortable. On the other hand, the TTC Brother stands out with its lightweight 37g actuation force and satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, making it a go-to choice for clicky switch enthusiasts. While the Black Lotus excels in reducing wobble and providing in-switch lighting, the Brother offers a tactile bump that strikes a perfect balance between feedback and subtlety. Ultimately, each switch caters to specific needs and preferences. 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
55g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
17.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Brother, one key difference is the top housing material. The Black Lotus features a Modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, which offers a unique and premium feel. On the other hand, the Brother utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials contribute to a quality typing experience, the Black Lotus may provide a softer and more luxurious feel compared to the Brother's stiffer and more resonant sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both switches use nylon for this component. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for producing a deep and fuller sound profile. Its softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, both the Black Lotus and the Brother may offer a satisfying typing experience with their nylon bottom housing contributing to a rich and full sound profile. Despite their different top housing materials, the similar use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that both switches deliver a comfortable typing experience with a focus on sound quality.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Brother plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience. While the Black Lotus may offer a more premium feel with its Modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, the Brother stands out for its sharper and crisper sound profile with a polycarbonate top housing. However, both switches share the benefits of a nylon bottom housing, contributing to a deep and full sound profile. Whether you prioritize feel or sound quality in your typing experience, both the Black Lotus and the Brother offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the TTC Brother clicky switch, it's evident that there is a significant difference in the weights of the two switches. The Durock Black Lotus requires a higher actuation force of 55 grams and bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the TTC Brother clicky switch has a much lighter actuation force of 37 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The Black Lotus provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier weights, while the Brother switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the TTC Brother clicky switch, we can see that the Black Lotus has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Brother has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Black Lotus offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a bit more depth. On the other hand, the Brother's shorter travel distance may be ideal for gamers seeking faster response times. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, but the slight difference may cater to different preferences. Ultimately, selecting between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a longer travel distance for a more tactile feel or a shorter travel distance for quicker key presses.
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 TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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 subjective experience that is not explicitly described in the provided information. On the other hand, the TTC Brother clicky switch is praised for its satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, akin to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. This auditory feedback is sure to please enthusiasts of clicky switches who enjoy a distinct and precise click with each keystroke.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Black Lotus is revered for its silky and buttery smoothness, providing an exceptionally comfortable typing experience with reduced resistance. Its mild characteristics ensure a typing sensation that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. Conversely, the TTC Brother clicky switch is lauded for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force for activation and enhancing the overall typing experience with its responsive and low-impact feel. Additionally, the Brother switch is noted to have a stepped tactile sensation, offering a more nuanced typing experience with distinct pre-travel and/or post-travel stages.
Considering all available information, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch offers a smooth and precise typing experience with its 55g actuation weight, light column for in-switch lighting, and reduced housing wobble. On the other hand, the TTC Brother clicky switch stands out for its lightweight actuation of 37g, satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, and balanced tactile bump. While both switches excel in different aspects, users can expect similar levels of quality and performance, depending on their preferences for sound and feel in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Black Lotus linear switch or the TTC Brother clicky switch, think about your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a smooth and precise typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Black Lotus is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight switch with a satisfyingly crunchy sound, gentle resistance, and a tactile bump, the Brother clicky switch might be more suited to your taste. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you as you type away on your mechanical keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
