Durock Black Lotus vs. KTT Darling
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Darling switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Darling mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique typing experiences to cater to different preferences. The Black Lotus is praised for its silky smooth feel and precise typing experience, with reduced housing and stem wobble for maximum comfort. On the other hand, the KTT Darling provides a substantial and chewy typing sensation, coupled with bouncy responsiveness and a resonant, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out. While the Black Lotus is categorized as smooth, buttery, mild, polished, the Darling falls under bouncy, clacky, high-pitched, resonant. Choosing between these switches may depend on whether you prioritize smoothness and precision or a more tactile and bouncy typing feel. However, let's delve 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Darling both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile and feel. The Black Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend top housing offers a premium and unique feel, while the Darling's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Both materials have their advantages, with the polycarbonate providing a more clear and resonant sound due to its stiffness, and the modified PC & UPE Blend offering a high-end tactile experience. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Darling is ideal for RGB lighting, while the modified PC & UPE Blend of the Black Lotus adds a touch of luxury.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Black Lotus and the Darling utilize nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This classic switch housing material enhances the overall typing experience by providing a more satisfying sound when typing on switches that use nylon. While both switches feature nylon bottom housings, the difference in top housing materials will still have an impact on the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound upon key release.
Overall, while the Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Darling both offer unique housing materials in terms of their top and bottom housings, they ultimately aim to enhance the typing experience with their distinct sound profiles. Whether it's the premium feel of the Black Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend top housing or the sharper sound profile of the Darling's polycarbonate top housing, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches further adds to the depth and fullness of the sound profile, creating a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts looking for a unique and premium switch option.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the KTT Darling linear switch, it is clear that the Black Lotus is the heavier of the two. The Black Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the KTT Darling has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, putting it in the medium-light category. The difference in weight between the two switches impacts the typing experience significantly. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Darling switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. In contrast, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Black Lotus for its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch is 4 mm, while the KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Darling has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Black Lotus. The Black Lotus offers a more traditional distance, while the Darling provides a slightly shallower feel. Gamers looking for a faster response time may lean towards the Darling with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming may prefer the Black Lotus with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and what feels most comfortable to the user.
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 KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch offers a quieter typing experience with an emphasis on smoothness and minimal noise production. On the other hand, the KTT Darling linear switch provides a more pronounced and engaging auditory feedback with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile that adds excitement to each keystroke. The sound produced by both switches will ultimately depend on additional factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Black Lotus switch is renowned for its silky and precise typing experience that minimizes resistance and delivers a refined keypress. On the contrary, the KTT Darling switch offers a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. Both switches provide unique tactile feedback, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
Overall, the Durock Black Lotus and KTT Darling linear switches offer distinct characteristics in both sound and feel, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Black Lotus excels in smoothness and precision, the Darling stands out for its pronounced bounciness and engaging sound profile. Depending on personal preferences, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world will find a switch that suits their individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the KTT Darling linear switch, consider the following factors. Choose the Black Lotus if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, smooth typing experience, and in-switch lighting with a removable light column. On the other hand, opt for the Darling if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a chewy and substantial typing sensation, pronounced bounciness, and a high-pitched, resonant sound profile. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound feedback, and bottom out force. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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