Durock Black Lotus vs. TTC Gold Pink

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Gold Pink. The Black Lotus is renowned for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, resulting in a typing experience that is free from any housing or stem wobble. With a 55g actuation weight, the Black Lotus strikes a balance between being substantial without feeling overly heavy. Additionally, the unique light column feature adds a touch of customization by providing in-switch lighting that can be fully removed if desired. On the other hand, the Gold Pink switch offers a completely different experience. With a mere 37g actuation force, these switches are among the lightest available. Designed for those who prioritize a fast and effortless typing experience, the Gold Pinks are ideal for rapid typing and gaming. They also provide a satisfying level of feedback due to their clacky sound, which adds to the overall typing experience. In short, both switches have their own set of advantages. The Black Lotus offers a smooth and precise typing experience with customizable lighting, while the Gold Pink delivers a light and lively typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Durock Black Lotus Linear

TTC Gold Pink Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

$4.80

$4.28 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Durock Black Lotus and TTC Gold Pink switches have different housing materials that contribute to their unique characteristics. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, which provides it with a distinct and premium feel. On the other hand, the Gold Pink utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both switch housings provide similar benefits in terms of sound quality, the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference. If you prefer a switch with a unique and premium feel, the Black Lotus with its modified PC and UPE Blend top housing would be a suitable choice. However, if you prioritize a sharper and more pronounced sound profile, the Gold Pink with its polycarbonate top housing would be more appealing.

Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Black Lotus and Gold Pink switches feature nylon bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound. As a result, both switches offer a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity suggests that the typing experience on both switches will elicit a similar deep and full sound profile. If you appreciate a switch with a more resonant and muffled sound, both options will provide a satisfying typing experience.

When considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it is important to note that the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing will primarily affect the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing will have a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, depending on your typing style and preferences, you may find that the bottom housing's influence is more noticeable during keypresses, while the top housing's contribution becomes more apparent when lifting your fingers from the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the Black Lotus and Gold Pink will depend on whether you prioritize the feel of pressing down on the keys or the sound produced when releasing them.

Weight

When considering the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, there are noticeable differences to take into account. The Durock Black Lotus has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Gold Pink's 37 grams. This means that the Black Lotus requires a stronger push to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Black Lotus is 63.5 grams, indicating a more substantial typing experience when fully pressed down. In contrast, the Gold Pink has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, offering a softer and potentially less fatiguing typing experience. Both switches fall within the medium-heavy range for actuation force, but the Black Lotus is slightly heavier overall. As a result, those seeking a lighter typing experience for prolonged use may prefer the Gold Pink, while those desiring a more forceful and tactile keystroke may lean towards the Black Lotus.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, it becomes evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will experience a consistent 4 mm of travel distance. Therefore, in terms of tactile feedback and key press feel, both the Black Lotus and Gold Pink switches will yield similar results. It is worth noting that this 4 mm distance is considered to be the industry standard for optimal typing and gaming experiences, providing a balance between comfort and responsiveness. Thus, whether one chooses the Durock Black Lotus or the TTC Gold Pink, they can expect to have a satisfying keystroke experience with an identical travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Black Lotus switch is known for its quiet operation. While the specific sound descriptor is unknown, it is likely to produce a subtle and unobtrusive sound while typing. On the other hand, the Gold Pink switch is described as clacky, which suggests a more audible and clicky sound profile. The Gold Pink switch will provide a satisfying level of feedback with each keystroke, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound while typing. However, it is important to note that the sound of both switches can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Black Lotus switch is described with various terms that indicate a smooth and refined typing experience. It is described as silky, suggesting an exceptionally smooth keystroke sensation with minimal resistance. Additionally, it is referred to as buttery, indicating a seamless and effortless typing feel. The Black Lotus switch is also described as mild, meaning it offers a gentle and approachable typing experience that falls within the middle-ground zone. Lastly, it is noted as polished, suggesting it has a refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Similarly, the Gold Pink switch also shares some similarities in terms of feel with the Black Lotus. It is described as buttery, reflecting a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Like the Black Lotus, it is also labeled as mild, offering a gentle typing experience suitable for most users. Additionally, it is referred to as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that promotes smooth key travel. The Gold Pink switch is further described as feathery, meaning it has an exceptionally light actuation force that requires little finger exertion. This lightness reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions.

Considering all the available information, both the Durock Black Lotus and TTC Gold Pink switches possess favorable qualities for different preferences. The Black Lotus switch offers a silky, buttery, mild, and polished typing experience, while the Gold Pink switch provides a buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished typing experience. While the sound profiles of the switches differ, both switches excel in delivering a smooth and refined typing feel. It ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding sound and actuation force when choosing between these switches. If you prefer a quieter switch with moderate actuation force, the Black Lotus is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a more audible clicky sound with an extremely light actuation force, the Gold Pink switch is a top contender.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a substantial actuation weight and a smooth typing experience, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch is the way to go. With its reduced housing and stem wobble, this switch offers unparalleled precision and maximum typing pleasure. Additionally, the unique removable light column adds a customizable feature to enhance your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a light and lively typing experience, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch is the ideal choice. With its light actuation force and clacky sound, these switches are designed for fast and effortless typing, making them perfect for rapid typing or gaming. They also offer a satisfying level of feedback. Both switches have a buttery and polished feel, ensuring smooth and refined typing experiences. However, the Black Lotus is best known for its silky and mild feel, while the Gold Pink provides a mild and feathery typing sensation. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your preference for actuation force, typing style, and desired sound.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Black Lotus Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more

TTC Gold Pink Linear

$4.80

$4.28 per 10

Learn more