Durock Black Lotus vs. TTC Gold Silver
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Gold Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Gold Silver mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, each offers unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Black Lotus is praised for its silky smooth feel, reduced wobble, and 55g actuation weight, providing a precise and pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold Silver stands out for its rapid responsiveness, shortened travel distance, and solid bottom-out for a decisive keystroke. While the Black Lotus is known for its in-switch lighting and removable light column, the Gold Silver boasts a resonant sound signature and smooth keystroke journey. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences and typing style. 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
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
The Durock Black Lotus features a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, which provides a unique and premium feel to the switch. In contrast, the TTC Gold Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer plastic material. While both switches offer a different tactile experience, the use of translucent polycarbonate in the Gold Silver allows for enhanced aesthetics when using RGB lighting. Despite these differences, both switches aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience with their distinct housing materials.
On the other hand, the Black Lotus incorporates a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deep and fuller sound profile while typing. Similarly, the Gold Silver also uses a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar sound experience due to the softer plastic material's sound-absorbing properties. Although the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, both switches provide a tactile typing experience with their nylon bottom housings. The use of nylon in both switches showcases a classic housing material choice that enhances the overall typing experience for users.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Gold Silver contributes to their unique sound profiles and tactile experiences. While the Black Lotus combines a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing with a nylon bottom housing for a premium feel and distinctive sound, the Gold Silver opts for a polycarbonate top housing paired with a nylon bottom housing to achieve a sharper and crisper sound profile. Despite their differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their housings, ensuring that users can enjoy a tactile and responsive feel while typing on either switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, it is clear that the Gold Silver is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams. In contrast, the Black Lotus is heavier with an actuation force of 55 grams. The bottom out force for the Black Lotus is 63.5 grams, while it is unknown for the Gold Silver. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the Gold Silver switch due to its lower actuation force, making it ideal for long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Black Lotus provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation force, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing resistance and force feedback.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered to be a more traditional distance for a switch. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the Gold Silver switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Black Lotus switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness.
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 Silver 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 Silver 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, which is not too high-pitched or low-pitched, making it suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch is described as thocky, low-pitched, and neutral, providing a deep and satisfying sound with each press. The Gold Silver switch's sound is more resonant and decisive compared to the Black Lotus, offering a different auditory experience depending on personal preference and the overall keyboard setup.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Durock Black Lotus switch is hailed for its silky, buttery, mild, and polished feel, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This results in a refined and sleek typing sensation that is comfortable and enjoyable for extended periods of use. Similarly, the TTC Gold Silver switch shares some qualities with the Black Lotus, such as being polished and silky, providing a smooth and gentle typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. These switches offer a subtle resistance that is not overly pronounced, making them suitable for various typing preferences and environments.
In conclusion, both the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Black Lotus excels in providing a neutral sound profile and a silky smooth typing experience, while the Gold Silver impresses with its thocky sound and polished, silky feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and are well-suited for a variety of typing tasks.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, consider the characteristics and preferences that matter most to you. If you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force, a silky smooth typing experience with reduced wobble, and in-switch lighting, the Black Lotus may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value rapid responsiveness, a shortened travel for decisive keystrokes, and a resonant sound signature, the Gold Silver switch might be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what features and qualities align best with your typing preferences and needs.
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