Durock Black Lotus vs. KTT Cream Yellow

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Cream Yellow. While both switches fall under the linear category, they offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Black Lotus is renowned for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, ensuring minimal housing and stem wobble for a satisfying typing experience. With a moderate 55g actuation weight, it strikes a balance between heft and ease of use. Additionally, the unique removable light column provides customizable in-switch lighting. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow switch boasts a distinctively clacky sound, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem. The lengthened spring adds to its bouncy typing feel, creating a unique tactile experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can make the best decision for your personal preferences.

By the numbers

Durock Black Lotus Linear

KTT Cream Yellow Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

$2.75

$2.55 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Cream Yellow differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct characteristics. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, which gives it a unique and premium feel. In contrast, the Cream Yellow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer excellent aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly suitable for use with RGB lighting. Therefore, for those seeking a switch with a luxurious feel, the Black Lotus with its modified PC and UPE Blend top housing would be the preferred choice, while the Cream Yellow's polycarbonate top housing would cater to individuals looking for a switch with a distinct acoustical profile.

Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Black Lotus and the Cream Yellow implement a nylon material. Typing on switches that use nylon evokes a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Consequently, the bottom housings of both switches contribute to creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. Though they share this characteristic, the choice between the two would depend on factors such as personal preference or the desired typing experience. Individuals seeking a switch with a deeper and fuller sound may lean towards either the Black Lotus or the Cream Yellow due to their nylon bottom housings.

When comparing the impact of the housing materials on key press and release, the bottom and top housings play distinct roles. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing the key, while the top housing primarily affects the sound when releasing the key. Therefore, the choice of housing material for the bottom and top of the switch will directly impact the typing experience. Whether using the Black Lotus or the Cream Yellow, the inherent qualities of the respective housing materials will contribute to the overall feel and acoustics of each keystroke.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The actuation force of the Black Lotus is slightly heavier at 55 grams, while the Cream Yellow requires 50 grams to be triggered. Both switches fall into the medium range, providing a balanced typing experience. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Black Lotus is slightly heavier with a force of 63.5 grams, compared to the Cream Yellow's 58 grams. This means that the Black Lotus will provide a slightly more substantial typing feel.

The weight of the switches is an important consideration as it impacts typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Cream Yellow with its lower actuation and bottom out forces would be suitable. This lighter weight allows for extended typing sessions, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, for individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience, the Black Lotus with its heavier forces would be preferred. The actuation and bottom out forces of the Black Lotus provide a satisfying resistance and can enhance the tactile feedback while typing.

Overall, while the actuation and bottom out forces may differ slightly between the Durock Black Lotus and KTT Cream Yellow linear switches, they both offer a medium typing experience. If one is seeking a lighter switch, the Cream Yellow is the optimal choice. However, for those who enjoy a slightly heavier feel, the Black Lotus would provide similar results. Ultimately, the decision depends on the individual's preference for weight and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Black Lotus falls into the category of a more traditional travel distance, providing a satisfying depth when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow offers a slightly shallower travel distance, which is becoming more popular among gamers who prioritize faster response times. Opting for the shorter travel distance can result in a more responsive typing experience. However, it is important to note that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference - whether one prefers a deeper, more substantial key press or a quicker, more nimble typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Black Lotus switch does not have a specific descriptor mentioned. However, based on its silky smooth feel and reduced stem wobble, it is likely to produce a quiet and fluid sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow switch is described as clacky, which means it produces a sharp and snappy sound. This switch's shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem contribute to a resonant audio feedback. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.

Moving on to the feel, the Black Lotus switch offers a silky, buttery, mild, and polished typing experience. These descriptors indicate that the switch provides exceptional smoothness, minimal resistance, and a refined finish. The typing sensation is likely to be effortless, uniform, and approachable for most users. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback. Pressing these keys will give users a lively sensation with a rebound effect.

Taking all the available information into consideration, the Black Lotus switch emphasizes a smooth and refined typing experience with a focus on reducing wobble and providing precision. It is also worth noting that the switch has a unique light column for in-switch lighting. The Cream Yellow switch, on the other hand, is designed to deliver a distinctively clacky sound and offers a bouncy typing feel. While both switches have their unique qualities, they cater to different preferences. If you prefer a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced wobble and precision, the Black Lotus switch would be the better choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow switch would suit your preferences. It is important to consider personal preferences, as well as factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, when choosing between these switches.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when considering the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch, there are a few key factors to consider.

If you prioritize a smooth and refined typing experience, the Black Lotus is the way to go. With its silky and buttery feel, this switch offers an exceptionally smooth keystroke experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Black Lotus provides a mild and polished sensation, making it approachable to most users. Additionally, it boasts a unique light column for in-switch lighting that can be fully removed. However, it is worth noting that the sound produced by the Black Lotus is not specifically described.

On the other hand, if you value distinctively clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, the KTT Cream Yellow switch is an excellent choice. Designed to deliver resonant audio feedback, the Cream Yellow offers a crisp and sharp sound, which is described as clacky. Its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem contribute to this distinct sound, while the lengthened spring adds a bouncy and elastic feedback sensation. In terms of typing feel, the Cream Yellow provides a uniquely lively and rebounding experience.

Overall, the decision between the Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Cream Yellow switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a smooth and refined typing experience, opt for the Black Lotus. If you prefer a clacky sound with a bouncy and lively typing feel, the Cream Yellow is the way to go. Consider these factors and choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Black Lotus Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more

KTT Cream Yellow Linear

$2.75

$2.55 per 10

Learn more