Durock Black Lotus vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Gold Red Pro mechanical keyboard switches, it all boils down to personal preference and specific needs. The Black Lotus is lauded for its silky smooth feel and precision, with reduced housing and stem wobble for maximum typing pleasure. Its 55g actuation weight strikes a nice balance between substantial and comfortable. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro offers a versatile experience with its easy press and neutral sound signature, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater to different 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
43g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Durock Black Lotus and TTC Gold Red Pro both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall performance. The Black Lotus utilizes a modified PC and UPE blend for its top housing, which provides a premium feel. In contrast, the Gold Red Pro opts for a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. While both materials offer distinct characteristics, they ultimately cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel.
In terms of bottom housing, both switches feature nylon materials that elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. Despite this similarity, the differences in top housing between the Black Lotus and Gold Red Pro will still impact the overall typing experience. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings emphasizes the importance of considering both aspects when selecting a switch for specific preferences.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Black Lotus and TTC Gold Red Pro will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics. While the Black Lotus offers a unique blend of materials for a premium feel, the Gold Red Pro focuses on polycarbonate for a crisper sound profile. Both switches provide a high-quality typing experience, but the key differences in housing materials highlight the attention to detail that can make one switch more desirable over the other for certain users.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Black Lotus is the heavier option. 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. In contrast, the Gold Red Pro has an actuation force of 43 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. Despite the difference in force, both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Gold Red Pro may be the preferred choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Black Lotus offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches offer a moderate travel distance that falls within the traditional range, but the Black Lotus provides a slightly longer press compared to the Gold Red Pro. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may opt for the Gold Red Pro with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more responsive and hearty depth in their key presses may lean towards the Black Lotus. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
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 Red 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 Red 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 and mellow tone that is suitable for most environments. Its sound profile is not too loud or too soft, making it a harmonious choice for any setting. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound that gives a deep and satisfying auditory experience. Both switches offer a pleasant sound signature that can enhance your typing experience, with the Black Lotus leaning towards a more neutral tone while the Gold Red Pro provides a richer sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Durock Black Lotus is known for its silky, buttery, and polished typing experience. These characteristics result in a smooth and refined keystroke that minimizes resistance and provides a seamless typing sensation. Similarly, the TTC Gold Red Pro switch also boasts a polished and silky feel, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches provide a gentle and approachable typing experience, making them suitable for users with varying preferences. The mild and subtle characteristics of these switches ensure a comfortable typing feel without being overwhelming in sound or tactile feedback.
Overall, both the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switches offer impressive qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Black Lotus excels in providing a neutral sound and a silky smooth feel with reduced wobble, the Gold Red Pro stands out for its thocky sound and polished typing experience. Whether you are looking for a versatile switch for various settings or a switch that prioritizes a specific sound or feel, both these options offer exceptional performance. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, consider your typing preferences and typing environment. If you value a medium-heavy bottom out force, smooth typing experience, and in-switch lighting, the Black Lotus may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a versatile switch with neutral sound, easy key presses, and adaptability for various settings, the Gold Red Pro could be the better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what characteristics matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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