Durock Black Lotus vs. KTT Rose

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Rose, both of which are linear switches. The Black Lotus is renowned for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, providing a pleasurable typing experience with reduced housing and stem wobble. With a 55g actuation weight that strikes a balance between substantial and manageable, this switch is a solid choice for those seeking a comfortable yet responsive keypress. Additionally, the Black Lotus boasts a unique feature in its removable light column, allowing for customizable in-switch lighting. On the other hand, the Rose switches offer more than just their visually appealing aesthetics. These switches utilize progressive springs to deliver a uniquely substantial and satisfying typing experience without being overly heavy. Users often describe the typing sensation on Rose switches as reminiscent of bassy raindrops, further enhancing the tactile experience. Though both switches share qualities such as a mild and polished feel, they also have their distinct characteristics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that aligns with your preferences.

By the numbers

Durock Black Lotus Linear

KTT Rose Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

$3.01 per 10

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Housing materials

The Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Rose differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct characteristics in sound and feel. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, which offers a unique and premium feel. On the other hand, the Rose utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials contribute to a premium feel, the Black Lotus's modified PC and UPE Blend may provide a different tactile experience compared to the Rose's polycarbonate.

Moving to the bottom housing, both switches share the use of nylon. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic and sound-absorbing properties. This translates into a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottoms. Therefore, both the Black Lotus and the Rose are likely to provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when it comes to their bottom housings.

When it comes to the overall sound and feel of the switches, the split between the top and bottom housings is notable. The Black Lotus, with its modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, will have a significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. On the other hand, the Rose's polycarbonate top housing will contribute to a more resonant sound when letting go of a key. On the contrary, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, where both the Black Lotus and the Rose, with their nylon bottom housings, will provide a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the different top housings may still result in a slight distinction in tactile experience between the two switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. The actuation force of the Black Lotus is known to be 55 grams, whereas the actuation force of the Rose switch is not available. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, both switches have a force of 63.5 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the actuation force of the Black Lotus at 55 grams may be more desirable, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. However, for individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel and a stronger push, they may lean towards options with heavier forces. Here, the bottom out force of 63.5 grams in both the Black Lotus and Rose switches provides a similar outcome in terms of the amount of force required to fully press down the keys.

In summary, while the actuation force of the Black Lotus is known to be lighter than the Rose switch, the bottom out force remains the same for both switches. Ultimately, individual preferences for a lighter or heavier typing experience will determine which switch is more suitable.

Travel distance

The Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar experience when typing, as they both require a press down of 4 mm to register a keystroke. Whether you choose the Black Lotus or the Rose, you can expect to feel a consistent and satisfying travel distance when using these switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Durock Black Lotus switch is not explicitly described in the given information. However, based on the switch's smooth feel and reduced housing and stem wobble, it is likely to produce a relatively quiet and stable sound when typing. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switch is described as having a low-pitched sound, which typically features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This suggests that typing on the Rose switches may produce a deeper and more soothing sound.

When it comes to feel, the Durock Black Lotus switch is often referred to as silky, buttery, mild, and polished. These descriptors indicate that the switch offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Black Lotus switch's feel is refined, polished, and free from any harshness. The KTT Rose switch, on the other hand, is described as having a mild and polished feel. This implies that it also offers a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches provide approachable and comfortable typing sensations, placing them in a safe middle-ground zone.

Considering the available information, the Durock Black Lotus and KTT Rose switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches are likely to produce pleasant and quiet typing sounds, with the Rose switch having a lower-pitched and bass-heavy tone. In terms of feel, both switches provide a smooth and refined typing experience, with the Black Lotus switch offering additional descriptors like silky and buttery. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and any other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy linear switch with a smooth feel and precision, the Durock Black Lotus would be a great choice. With its unique light column and 55g actuation weight, these switches offer a substantial but not overly heavy typing experience. Additionally, the Black Lotus reduces housing and stem wobble, maximizing typing pleasure. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy linear switch with a bass-heavy and mellow tone, the KTT Rose would be a perfect fit. The progressive springs in these switches provide a uniquely substantial typing experience without feeling too heavy. Moreover, the Rose switches offer a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Black Lotus and the Rose will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Black Lotus Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more

KTT Rose Linear

$3.01 per 10

Learn more