Durock Black Lotus vs. TTC Flaming Purple
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Flaming Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Flaming Purple mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique features catered towards different preferences. The Black Lotus is praised for its silky smooth feel, reduced wobble, and 55g actuation weight, making it a great option for those looking for a refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Flaming Purple stands out with its resonant character, bassier sound signature, and feather-light 47g bottom-out, ideal for users seeking a more engaging and effortless typing experience. Both switches offer their own set of qualities that appeal to different 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
42g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
47g
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
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Black Lotus and TTC Flaming Purple switches feature different housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles and feel. The Black Lotus utilizes a modified PC and UPE Blend for its top housing, which gives it a premium and unique feel. In contrast, the Flaming Purple's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. However, both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is duller and rounder compared to harder plastics.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Black Lotus and Flaming Purple switches offer a high-quality typing experience. The Black Lotus's combination of modified PC and UPE Blend in the top housing provides a premium feel, while the Flaming Purple's polycarbonate top housing creates a clear and resonant sound profile. In terms of the bottom housing, the nylon material used in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characteristic of switches utilizing this classic housing material.
Overall, the housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and TTC Flaming Purple switches play a crucial role in shaping their sound profiles and feel. While the Black Lotus features a unique modified PC and UPE Blend top housing for a premium feel, the Flaming Purple utilizes polycarbonate to create a sharper and crisper sound profile. However, both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound that adds to the overall typing experience. Whether it's the premium feel of the Black Lotus or the crisp sound of the Flaming Purple, both switches offer quality options for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus linear switch to the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Black Lotus has a higher 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 Flaming Purple has a lower actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams, classifying it as a lighter switch. The Black Lotus provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, while the Flaming Purple offers a lighter touch, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch reveals that the Black Lotus has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Flaming Purple has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Black Lotus provides a more traditional experience with its 4 mm travel distance, allowing for a deeper keystroke feel. On the other hand, the Flaming Purple's 3.6 mm travel distance offers a slightly quicker and more responsive typing experience. Gamers often prefer switches with shorter travel distances for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke may lean towards switches with longer travel distances. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, with each offering its own unique advantages.
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 Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch offers a neutral and smooth typing experience, with a hint of in-switch lighting adding to the overall ambiance. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Purple switch provides a bassier sound profile with a touch of resonant undertones, creating a more engaging auditory experience. While the Black Lotus focuses on a clean and precise sound, the Flaming Purple adds a poppy flair that appeals to those who enjoy a more vibrant typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Black Lotus switch is praised for its silky and buttery smoothness, offering a refined and polished typing sensation with minimal resistance. In comparison, the TTC Flaming Purple switch is described as feathery, making typing swift and effortless with its light actuation force. The Black Lotus emphasizes precision and smoothness, whereas the Flaming Purple prioritizes lightness and ease of typing, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
Overall, both the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Black Lotus excels in providing a precise and smooth typing experience with a touch of in-switch lighting, while the Flaming Purple stands out with its engaging sound profile and feather-light feel. Depending on whether you prioritize sound quality, typing feel, or both, you can choose a switch that best suits your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance that will enhance your typing experience, providing you with satisfying results no matter which one you choose.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Black Lotus linear switch or the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch, you should take into account your typing preferences and requirements. If you value a medium-heavy bottom out force, a silky smooth feel, and unparalleled precision in your typing experience, the Black Lotus would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a feathery touch that allows for swift and effortless typing, and a slightly bassier sound profile that adds an engaging flair to each keystroke, then the Flaming Purple would be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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