Durock Black Lotus vs. TTC Silent Brown

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Silent Brown. The Black Lotus is a linear switch known for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, thanks to its reduced housing and stem wobble. With a 55g actuation weight, it provides a substantial yet comfortable typing experience. Additionally, the unique feature of a removable light column adds a touch of customization with in-switch lighting. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches from TTC offer a tactile experience with a satisfying rounded bump. These switches boast a light-medium level of resistance, making typing comfortable. One of the standout features of the Silent Brown switches is their muted sound profile, which adds a pleasant typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Durock Black Lotus Linear

TTC Silent Brown Tactile

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

$5.00

$3.68 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Silent Brown switches have contrasting top housing materials. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, which gives it a unique and premium feel. On the other hand, the Silent Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches, the Black Lotus's modified PC and UPE Blend creates a different tactile experience compared to the Silent Brown's polycarbonate. The Black Lotus switch is likely to provide a more distinct and premium feel when typing, while the Silent Brown switch is designed to offer a clear and resonant sound, especially when combined with RGB lighting.

In terms of the bottom housing, both the Black Lotus and the Silent Brown utilize nylon as the material of choice. This classic switch housing material elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer composition. Nylon has the ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches are likely to provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound. However, the differences in the top housing materials may still contribute to variations in overall sound and feel when using the switches. It is important to note that the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.

In summary, the Durock Black Lotus and the TTC Silent Brown switches differ in their top housing materials. The Black Lotus's modified PC and UPE Blend provides a unique and premium feel, while the Silent Brown's polycarbonate creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. However, both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite the common housing material, the differences in the top housing materials may still result in variations in the overall typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are a few notable differences. The Black Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Silent Brown requires a lighter 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. This means that the Silent Brown switch will be slightly easier to actuate compared to the Black Lotus. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which provides a medium-heavy typing experience.

Weight is an important aspect to consider when choosing a switch, as it can greatly influence the typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the Silent Brown, as it requires less force to actuate and allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. This makes it a suitable choice for work or prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel and desire a stronger typing experience may lean towards the Black Lotus with its slightly heavier actuation force.

In conclusion, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and TTC Silent Brown tactile switch differ in their actuation forces, with the Silent Brown being lighter. However, they both share the same bottom out force, providing a similar level of resistance when fully pressed. Therefore, regardless of the choice, users can expect a medium-heavy typing experience, with the Silent Brown offering a lighter touch compared to the Black Lotus.

Travel distance

The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Black Lotus falls into the category of a more traditional travel distance, providing a 4.0 mm depth when pressed. On the other hand, the Silent Brown offers a slightly shallower travel distance at 3.8 mm. The difference may seem negligible, but for some, this distinction can have an impact. Gamers, for instance, often opt for shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times, enhancing their gameplay experience. However, those who prefer a more substantial, deeper feel when typing or gaming may find the 4.0 mm travel distance of the Black Lotus more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Durock Black Lotus switch does not have a specific descriptor provided. However, it is mentioned that the switch reduces housing and stem wobble, which can contribute to a quieter typing experience. Additionally, the sound of a switch is influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switch is described as having a muted sound profile. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. If you are looking for a quieter typing experience, the TTC Silent Brown switch would be a suitable choice, while the sound profile of the Black Lotus switch remains unknown.

In terms of feel, both the Durock Black Lotus and TTC Silent Brown switches share some similar descriptors. The Black Lotus is described as silky, buttery, mild, and polished. Silky switches offer an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The buttery descriptor implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The mild characteristic of the switch ensures a gentle typing experience, falling within a safe middle-ground zone that most people find approachable. Finally, the polished attribute indicates a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the TTC Silent Brown switch is described as buttery, mild, and polished, sharing these qualities with the Black Lotus switch. Both switches are designed to provide a smooth and effortless typing experience, making them suitable for those who prefer a gentle and polished feel.

Taking into account the available information, the Durock Black Lotus and TTC Silent Brown switches offer similar qualities in terms of feel. Both switches are described as silky, buttery, mild, and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. However, it is important to note that the sound profile of the Black Lotus switch remains unknown. If you are looking for a quieter typing experience, the TTC Silent Brown switch stands out with its muted sound profile. Ultimately, your choice between these switches may depend on your preference for sound and your desire for a specific tactile bump, as the Black Lotus is a linear switch and the Silent Brown is a tactile switch.

Conclusion

Bringing it all together, when it comes to choosing between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are a few key factors to consider.

If you prioritize a smooth and precise typing experience, the Black Lotus is an excellent choice. With its silky smooth feel and reduced wobble, these switches offer unparalleled typing pleasure. The 55g actuation weight provides a substantial feel without being too heavy, and the unique light column adds a visually appealing touch. However, it's important to note that the Black Lotus is not known for its sound profile.

On the other hand, if you value a comfortable typing experience with a satisfying tactile bump and a muted sound profile, the TTC Silent Brown is a great option. These switches offer a light-medium level of resistance, making them ideal for those who prefer a gentler typing feel. Additionally, the muted sound profile reduces the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, creating a quieter environment.

Ultimately, the decision between the Black Lotus and the Silent Brown depends on your personal preferences and priorities. If smoothness and precision are your top concerns, the Black Lotus is the way to go. However, if you prioritize comfort and a quieter typing experience, the Silent Brown is the better choice. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired level of resistance to make an informed decision.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Black Lotus Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more

TTC Silent Brown Tactile

$5.00

$3.68 per 10

Learn more