Durock Black Lotus vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Lightning. The Black Lotus is a linear switch that is best known for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision. It offers reduced housing and stem wobble, ensuring maximum typing pleasure. With a 55g actuation weight, it provides substantial but not overly hefty resistance. Additionally, the Black Lotus features a unique removable light column for in-switch lighting. On the other hand, the KTT Lightnings are also linear switches but are known for their "speed" characteristics. These switches are perfect for those moments when milliseconds can determine victory or defeat. Typing on the Lightnings offers a slick type feel, accompanied by a clacky sound profile. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide which switch is the perfect fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Lightning switches have contrasting housing materials that contribute to their unique qualities. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, while the Lightning utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. Both materials offer distinct benefits. The modified PC and UPE Blend housing of the Black Lotus provides a premium feel and likely contributes to a softer, more resonant sound profile. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Lightning creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound and enhances the switch's compatibility with RGB lighting.
Moving to the bottom housings, both switches share the same material: nylon. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, imparting a duller and rounder tone to typing. Nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a more subdued auditory experience when used in the bottom housing of switches. Therefore, the Black Lotus and Lightning will offer similar sound profiles in terms of their bottom-out sounds, thanks to the nylon bottom housing.
It is important to note that the qualities possessed by each housing material will affect different aspects of the typing experience. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing's characteristics will be more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing's qualities will be more pronounced when releasing a key. This means that while the Black Lotus and Lightning may share similarities in certain sound aspects due to their nylon bottom housing, their respective top housings will have a significant impact on the overall sound signature of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Lightning linear switches, it is evident that they have distinct variations in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Black Lotus showcases a medium-heavy actuation force of 55 grams, meaning it requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, it has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Lightning switch boasts a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, allowing for a smoother and quicker keystroke activation. Its bottom out force of 50 grams is also relatively light, enhancing the overall lightness of the switch and making it ideal for those seeking a comfortable typing experience over extended periods. With both switches differing in their forces, individuals can select the option that aligns with their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch have different travel distances. The Black Lotus has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Lightning has a travel distance of 3 mm. 4.0mm is the most traditional travel distance, offering a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Lightning's 3.0mm travel distance is more shallow, which some users may find more suitable for faster response times, especially for gaming. While shorter travel distances are becoming more prevalent, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize a quicker response, the Lightning switch would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more substantial and satisfying keypress, the Black Lotus switch with its longer travel distance would be a better fit. Both switches offer their own advantages, and it ultimately depends on the user's preference and typing style.
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 Lightning comes in at $3.41 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 Black Lotus has a subjective quality that is not mentioned, so it is unknown. On the other hand, the Lightning switch is described as having a clacky sound profile, which means that it produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. It is also mentioned that the Lightning switch is high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound. Additionally, the Lightning switch has a unique acoustic signature, described as chirpy, which sets it apart from other switches. However, it should be noted that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of board and keycaps.
When it comes to the feel, the Black Lotus is described as having a silky and buttery typing experience. These terms indicate that the switch offers an exceptionally smooth and fluid sensation when typing. It minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, providing a seamless and effortless typing experience. The Black Lotus switch is also described as mild, which means it offers a gentle typing experience without pronounced characteristics. This makes it approachable to most users. Additionally, the Black Lotus switch is mentioned to have a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Lightning switch is described as having a subtle and polished feel. A subtle switch implies a gentle resistance, maintaining a light typing feel without being overly feather-like. The sound signature of the Lightning switch is mentioned to be not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. Similar to the Black Lotus switch, the Lightning switch also has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience with reduced friction.
In conclusion, while there is limited information provided about the subjective qualities of the Black Lotus switch, it is known to have a silky smooth feel, minimal wobble, and a unique light column. The Lightning switch, on the other hand, is known for its approachable "speed" qualities, providing a slick type feel and a clacky sound profile. Both switches offer a polished finish for a refined typing experience with reduced friction. Overall, while the specific sound qualities of the Black Lotus are unknown, it is possible to achieve similar smooth and polished results with either switch, depending on the user's preference.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a substantial actuation weight, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch is the way to go. These switches offer a silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, enhancing your typing experience with minimal wobble. The unique light column provides in-switch lighting, which can be fully removed if desired. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the KTT Lightning linear switch is the better choice. These approachable "speed" switches are perfect for situations where milliseconds can make a difference. They offer a slick type feel with a clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Additionally, the Lightning switches have a light bottom out force of 50 grams, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing feel. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preferences and priorities, whether you value the smoother feel and medium-heavy actuation weight of the Black Lotus or the speed and responsiveness of the Lightning.
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