Durock Black Lotus vs. TTC Gold Brown Pro
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus linear switch to the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, one can see distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The Black Lotus offers a silky smooth feel with a 55g actuation weight, reducing housing and stem wobble for maximum typing pleasure. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro provides a gentle tactile bump for nuanced feedback, allowing for immersion in tasks without being overly reminded of each keystroke. While the Black Lotus is categorized as 'Silky', 'Buttery', and 'Mild', the Gold Brown Pro falls under categories like 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Subtle'. Each switch offers a unique typing experience tailored to specific 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Gold Brown Pro, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate material in the Gold Brown Pro creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while also allowing for RGB lighting due to its translucency. Similarly, the modified PC and UPE blend top housing of the Black Lotus provides a unique and premium feel. Both switches offer a distinct sound experience with their polycarbonate top housings, with the Gold Brown Pro emphasizing clarity and resonance, while the Black Lotus focuses more on a premium feel.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Black Lotus and Gold Brown Pro differ, with the Black Lotus featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Gold Brown Pro also utilizing a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound, with a rounder and duller sound produced due to the softer nature of nylon. While the top housings may provide a distinct feel and feature, the bottom housings of both switches allow for a consistent and satisfying typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Gold Brown Pro play a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of these switches. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing that offers unique characteristics, such as a premium feel and sharper sound profile, their nylon bottom housings provide a deeper and fuller sound experience. Whether it be the Black Lotus's modified PC and UPE blend top housing or the Gold Brown Pro's polycarbonate top housing, each switch offers a distinct typing experience that is sure to please keyboard enthusiasts looking for quality housing materials.
Weight
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch with an actuation force of 45 grams, making the Gold Brown Pro the lighter option. However, the bottom out force of the Black Lotus is 63.5 grams, while the bottom out force of the Gold Brown Pro is unknown. This means that the Black Lotus is heavier when fully pressed down, providing a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter feel may opt for the Gold Brown Pro, while those who enjoy a stronger push may lean towards the Black Lotus. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Gold Brown Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Black Lotus. The difference may be minimal, but it could still impact the typing or gaming experience for some users. Those who prefer a quicker response time may opt for the Gold Brown Pro with its shorter travel distance, while others who appreciate a bit more depth in their keystrokes could lean towards the Black Lotus. Both switches offer quality performance, but the slight variation in travel distance may be a deciding factor for some users depending on their preferences.
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 Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of environments and preferences. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound, providing a deep and mellow typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, giving users the option to choose based on their desired auditory experience.
In terms of feel, both the Black Lotus and the Gold Brown Pro switches share some similarities. Both switches are described as silky and polished, offering exceptionally smooth typing experiences with reduced friction and enhanced key travel. Additionally, they both fall under the category of mild switches, providing a gentle typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. The subtle tactility of the Gold Brown Pro complements the smoothness of the Black Lotus, giving typists the option to choose between a more pronounced tactile feedback or a smoother keystroke.
Overall, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch each offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Black Lotus excels in providing a silky smooth typing experience with a neutral sound profile, ideal for those who value precision and reduced wobble. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro offers a more tactile experience with a thocky and low-pitched sound, perfect for users who seek subtle feedback without compromising on smoothness. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality typing experiences with their own distinct characteristics, allowing users to customize their keyboards based on their personal preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when selecting between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you value a smooth and precise typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, opt for the Black Lotus. This switch's 55g actuation weight and unique light column add to its appeal. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtle tactile feedback with a quieter sound profile and an undefined bottom out force, the Gold Brown Pro is the way to go. Its gentle tactile bump allows for immersion in tasks without distractions. Ultimately, choose the Black Lotus for a more robust typing experience or the Gold Brown Pro for a softer and understated tactile feel. Make your decision based on what best suits your typing needs and preferences.
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