Durock Black Lotus vs. TTC Flaming Pink
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Flaming Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Flaming Pink both stand out as exceptional linear options, each bringing unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Black Lotus is celebrated for its silky smooth feel and precise performance, boasting a 55g actuation weight that strikes a balance between firmness and ease of use. Designed with a unique light column for in-switch lighting, it minimizes housing and stem wobble, ensuring a premium typing experience characterized as both buttery and mild. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Pink switches offer a responsive feel with a satisfying bottom-out sound, providing a clacky yet silky experience that is ideal for both gamers and general users. Their bright sound profile delivers a pleasing auditory feedback without being overwhelming. While both switches excel in their own right, they cater to different typing and gaming styles that can significantly affect your overall experience. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
24mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Flaming Pink switches, the materials used for their top housings offer distinct characteristics that influence the overall sound profile and tactile experience. The Durock Black Lotus features a modified blend of polycarbonate (PC) and urethane plastic (UPE), providing a unique and premium feel that contributes to a softer typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Flaming Pink utilizes pure polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. While both housing materials may transmit sound differently, they cater to varied preferences among typists, with the Black Lotus focusing on a softer touch and feel, and the Flaming Pink emphasizing clarity and resonance that can be particularly favorable when using RGB lighting.
On the bottom housing front, both switches utilize nylon, which is a classic material known for its sound-absorbing properties. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper, more full-bodied sound when typing, creating a rounder auditory experience that many users appreciate. Since both the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Flaming Pink share this characteristic in their bottom housings, typists can expect a similar auditory output in terms of sound depth and fullness between the two switches. This shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that regardless of the differing top housing materials, the overall voice of the switches is harmonized in this aspect.
Ultimately, while the Durock Black Lotus and TTC Flaming Pink switches are constructed from different materials in their top housings—modified PC and UPE blend versus pure polycarbonate—they maintain a commonality in their nylon bottom housing, enabling comparable depth of sound and tactile feel. By understanding how each material contributes to the switch's performance, users can appreciate the nuances in their distinct characteristics. Whether aiming for a subtle experience or a more pronounced sound profile, those familiar with the interplay between top and bottom housing materials will find that both switches deliver enjoyable tactile and auditory experiences tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch, significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Black Lotus boasts an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Flaming Pink offers a lighter typing experience with an actuation force of just 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This notable disparity means that users who favor lighter switches for prolonged typing or gaming sessions would likely prefer the Flaming Pink. Meanwhile, those who enjoy a more substantial push feel with a heavier switch may find the Black Lotus more appealing. Consequently, the Flaming Pink is the lighter option, while the Black Lotus is the heavier one, making it essential to consider personal typing preferences when choosing between these two switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Black Lotus features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, while the Flaming Pink offers a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This distinction means that users who favor a more responsive tactile experience may lean towards the Flaming Pink due to its shorter distance, which can facilitate quicker actuation. Conversely, the Black Lotus, with its greater depth, may appeal to those who appreciate a more pronounced feedback when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for key travel and tactile response during use.
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 Flaming Pink has an MSRP of $4.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Pink for $4.00.
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 switch presents a unique profile that is not specifically described but is implied to be well-balanced, providing a pleasant acoustic experience suited for typing. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Pink switch has a clacky sound characteristic, producing a sharp and snappy auditory feedback during use. This crisp and bright sound can enhance the tactile experience for users who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic signal, making it ideal for those who enjoy auditory cues while typing or gaming.
When discussing the feel, the Durock Black Lotus excels with a buttery and mild touch. This creates a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, minimizing any resistance for a more enjoyable typing sensation. In contrast, the TTC Flaming Pink switch is known for its silky feel, which similarly enhances the overall smoothness of the typing experience. Both switches prioritize a seamless keystroke, but the Black Lotus offers a more tailored mildness, while the Flaming Pink leans slightly towards a silkier response, catering to personal preferences in typing dynamics.
Overall, both the Durock Black Lotus and TTC Flaming Pink switches provide exceptional typing experiences, each with its unique attributes. The Black Lotus focuses on reducing wobble and ensuring precision with a buttery feel, while the Flaming Pink offers a clacky sound and silky touch that appeals to users seeking auditory satisfaction. Depending on your preference for sound and tactile feedback, both switches can deliver satisfying results, whether you're gaming or typing.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Flaming Pink linear switches largely hinges on your preferences in terms of actuation feel, sound, and overall typing experience. If you gravitate toward a medium-heavy feel and desire a buttery smooth typing experience with a satisfying tactile sensation, the Durock Black Lotus is an excellent choice. Its distinctively precise actuation and minimal wobble make it perfect for users who value typing pleasure, especially during long typing sessions or when accuracy is essential, like programming or writing. The unique in-switch lighting adds an extra touch for those who appreciate aesthetic elements in their setup.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a clackier sound profile that maintains a silky feel, the TTC Flaming Pink switches might be more suited to your needs. With a lower actuation force, these switches stand out for gaming, where quick response times are critical, but they also perform well for everyday use thanks to their smooth operation and pleasing acoustic feedback. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your intended usage—whether you prioritize precision and a heavier feel with the Black Lotus or a light, responsive, and resonant experience with the Flaming Pink.
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