Durock Black Lotus vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Kang White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Kang White. Both switches fall into the category of linear switches, which means they offer a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback.
The Black Lotus is well-known for its silky smooth feel and unmatched precision, making it a favorite among keyboard enthusiasts. Its 55g actuation weight provides a substantial yet comfortable typing experience, and its reduced housing and stem wobble add to the overall satisfaction. Additionally, the unique removable light column allows for in-switch lighting customization, adding a touch of personalization to your typing experience.
On the other hand, the Kang White switch offers a different set of qualities that make it worth considering. It boasts a delightful typing sound that is often described as dazzling, giving your keystrokes an auditory appeal. The self-lubricating material used in the switch ensures an unparalleled smoothness while typing, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize typing comfort. The Kang White switch falls into the 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral' categories, which means it provides a pleasing, balanced auditory experience.
However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision based on your preferences and priorities.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Kang White switches have both similarities and differences. Starting with the top housing, the Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE blend, which gives it a unique and premium feel. On the other hand, the Kang White utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, offering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials serve to enhance the overall sound of the switch, the Black Lotus's modified PC and UPE blend may provide a different tactile experience compared to the Kang White's polycarbonate.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Black Lotus and the Kang White utilize nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, and it absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Therefore, whether you type on the Black Lotus or the Kang White, you can expect a switch that elicits a duller and rounder sound due to the characteristics of the nylon bottom housing. In this aspect, the two switches are similar and should provide comparable results.
It's important to note that the qualities brought by the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, you will feel the impact and experience the sound profile influenced by the bottom housing. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key is more affected by the top housing. Therefore, there may be some differences in the overall typing experience and sound profile between the Black Lotus and the Kang White due to their contrasting top housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, there are several key differences to consider. The Black Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams, slightly heavier than the Kang White's 45 grams. This means that the Black Lotus requires more force to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the Black Lotus also has a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the Kang White's 58 grams. This means that the Black Lotus provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Kang White offers a lighter actuation force and bottom out force, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where fatigue may become a factor. Overall, the Black Lotus is the heavier option with a medium-heavy actuation and bottom out force, while the Kang White is the lighter option with medium forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on an individual's preference for typing experience and the desired level of force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar experience when pressing down on a key, as the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is identical. Whether typing on a keyboard with the Durock Black Lotus or the KTT Kang White, users can expect to feel the same level of travel distance and tactile feedback.
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 KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 per 10 switches.
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 switch does not have a specific descriptor provided. However, considering its smooth and precise nature, it is likely to produce a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. The low-pitched sound typically features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the neutral sound profile signifies a moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile suitable for most purposes. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Black Lotus switch has multiple descriptors, including silky, buttery, mild, and polished. Silky switches provide an exceptionally smooth typing experience by minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The buttery characteristic suggests a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, resulting in a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Being a mild switch, it offers a gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable and comfortable. Lastly, the polished attribute indicates a refined and sleek typing experience, usually achieved through high-quality materials or factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, there is no specific description provided for the feel of the KTT Kang White switch.
Based on the available information, the Durock Black Lotus switch is highly regarded for its smooth feel, precision, and reduced wobble, providing maximum typing pleasure. Its sound profile is likely to be low-pitched and neutral, making it suitable for various settings and users. The KTT Kang White switch, while praised for its dazzling typing sound and self-lubricating material for smoothness, lacks detailed information on its feel. If you are seeking a similar smooth and refined typing experience with a low-pitched and possibly neutral sound, the Durock Black Lotus switch is likely to provide similar results. Ultimately, choosing between these switches may depend on personal preferences and the specific characteristics desired in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, the Durock Black Lotus would be an excellent choice for you. With a substantial actuation weight and reduced wobble, these switches provide maximum typing pleasure. Additionally, the unique light column feature adds a touch of customization. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium switch with a dazzling typing sound and unmatched smoothness, the KTT Kang White is the way to go. Its self-lubricating material ensures a seamless and effortless typing experience. Furthermore, the Kang White switches are considered neutral, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users in any setting. Ultimately, the choice between the Black Lotus and the Kang White depends on your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel.
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