Durock Black Lotus vs. KTT Phalaenopsis

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Phalaenopsis offer unique features and benefits that cater to different preferences. The Black Lotus stands out with its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, reducing housing and stem wobble for maximum typing pleasure. With a 55g actuation weight, it strikes a balance between substantial and not too hefty. Additionally, the unique light column provides in-switch lighting and is fully removable. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis showcases beautiful translucent switches that make typing effortless. With a light actuation force of 37g, finger fatigue is minimized even during prolonged typing sessions. The Phalaenopsis also offers a satisfying and discernible tactile bump of 50g, ensuring each keystroke is a delightful experience. These switches are categorized as bassy, stepped, and thocky, adding a tactile feedback that some users might prefer. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your personal preferences and typing style.

By the numbers

Durock Black Lotus Linear

KTT Phalaenopsis Tactile

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

$4.73

$4.15 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches differ in terms of their top and bottom housings. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, while the Phalaenopsis has a polycarbonate top housing. The Black Lotus's modified PC and UPE Blend housing offers a unique and premium feel, while the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Both materials are effective in allowing RGB lighting due to their translucency.

In terms of the bottom housing, the Black Lotus utilizes a nylon material, while the Phalaenopsis incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The absorbent nature of nylon helps create a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phalaenopsis contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness. Additionally, both bottom housings play a role in the switch's overall sound and feel when pressed down.

When it comes to the overall functionality of the switches, the bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel. The qualities of the nylon bottom housing in the Black Lotus and the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Phalaenopsis will impact the user's tactile experience when pressing the keys. Conversely, the top housing, whether it is the modified PC and UPE Blend in the Black Lotus or the polycarbonate in the Phalaenopsis, will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing materials in each switch results in distinctive characteristics during both depressions and releases of the keys.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Black Lotus requires an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Phalaenopsis only needs 37 grams for actuation. This means that the Phalaenopsis has a lighter touch and would be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, the Black Lotus has a higher measurement of 63.5 grams compared to the Phalaenopsis' 50 grams. This indicates that the Black Lotus provides a heavier and more substantial typing feel when fully pressed. So, if one prefers a keyboard with a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Phalaenopsis would be the better choice. However, for those who enjoy a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience, the Black Lotus would be more suitable. Overall, each switch offers unique characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences and typing styles.

Travel distance

Both the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of the physical experience when pressing down on a key, they will provide similar results as the distance traveled by both switches is equal. Whether typing or gaming, users can expect a consistent travel distance for both switches, providing a familiar feel and feedback.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Black Lotus switch does not have a specific description provided. However, it can be expected to produce a pleasant and satisfying sound based on its smooth and precise operation. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile. This means that the keystrokes will have a deep and rich tone, characterized by a lower frequency range resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. This can add an extra level of auditory satisfaction to the typing experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.

In terms of the feel, the Black Lotus switch is described as silky, buttery, mild, and polished. These descriptors indicate that typing on this switch will provide an exceptionally smooth and fluid experience. The switch offers minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys, creating a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch contributes to a sleek and refined feel, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch is described as stepped, meaning it has a mild tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. While not as pronounced as a hypertactile switch, the Phalaenopsis still provides a discernible tactile bump at a 50g force, ensuring each keystroke offers a delightful and satisfying experience.

Considering all the available information, both the Black Lotus and Phalaenopsis switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Black Lotus switch stands out for its silky smooth feel, unparalleled precision, and enhanced typing pleasure. With a 55g actuation weight, it strikes a balance between substantial and comfortable keystrokes. It also features a unique light column for customizable in-switch lighting. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch excels in effortless typing with its light actuation force of 37g, reducing finger fatigue even during prolonged typing sessions. Its discernible 50g tactile force ensures a delightful keystroke experience. While the sound qualities of the Black Lotus switch are unknown, the Phalaenopsis switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile, adding a deeper and richer tone to each key press. Both switches provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience, taking into account the subjective preferences regarding sound and feel.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, there are a few key factors to consider. The Black Lotus, with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, offers a silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision. It reduces housing and stem wobble for maximum typing pleasure and features a unique light column for in-switch lighting. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, making typing effortless and minimizing finger fatigue. It provides a satisfying and discernible tactile bump for a delightful typing experience.

In terms of sound, the Black Lotus has not been described in the provided information. However, the Phalaenopsis is known for its bassy and thocky sound profile, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses. This can enhance the overall typing experience.

When it comes to feel, the Black Lotus is described as silky, buttery, mild, and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience. The Phalaenopsis, however, is described as stepped, offering a more mild tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel.

Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a smooth and precise linear switch with in-switch lighting, the Black Lotus may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter tactile switch with a delightful tactile bump and a deeper sound profile, the Phalaenopsis could be the perfect fit. Consider these factors and choose the switch that aligns with your typing preferences and typing habits.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Black Lotus Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more

KTT Phalaenopsis Tactile

$4.73

$4.15 per 10

Learn more