Durock Black Lotus vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Strawberry 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 Strawberry. The Black Lotus is a linear switch that is best known for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision. This switch offers a reduction in housing and stem wobble, ensuring maximum typing pleasure. With a 55g actuation weight, it provides a substantial but not overly hefty feel. Additionally, the Black Lotus features a unique light column that provides in-switch lighting and is fully removable. On the other hand, the Strawberry is also a linear switch, but it is best known for its delectable aesthetics. With attractive pink and clear housings, this switch not only looks great but also offers a smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. Both switches have their own set of qualities that make them appealing options for keyboard enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Yes
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Strawberry differ in their choice of housing materials. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE blend in its top housing, whereas the Strawberry opts for a polycarbonate top housing. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a unique and premium feel. The modified PC and UPE blend in the Black Lotus creates a smooth and luxurious sensation when typing, while the use of polycarbonate in the Strawberry adds a sharper and crisper sound profile. Therefore, although the materials differ, both switches strive to offer a high-quality experience to users.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Black Lotus utilizes a nylon material, whereas the Strawberry employs polycarbonate. Nylon is well-known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, resulting in a more rounded and duller sound during typing. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Strawberry contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Despite these contrasting sound profiles, both switches aim to provide an enhanced auditory experience. While the nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller typing sound, the polycarbonate bottom housing emphasizes clarity and resonance.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by the different housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switches. When pressing down on either switch, you will feel the qualities of the respective bottom housing, as it significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a more pronounced impact when you release a key, influencing the sound generated. Whether it is the Black Lotus with its modified PC and UPE blend top housing and nylon bottom housing, or the Strawberry with its polycarbonate top housing and bottom housing, both switches focus on enhancing the overall typing experience by utilizing the unique qualities each housing material brings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, there are notable differences. The Black Lotus is slightly heavier in both regards, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy. Conversely, the Strawberry switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, categorizing it as medium.
For those seeking a lighter typing experience, the Strawberry switch provides the advantage of a lower actuation force, allowing for extended periods of comfortable typing. This feature is ideal for those who frequently use their keyboard for work or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Black Lotus switch. Its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces offer a stronger push sensation, enhancing the overall typing experience.
While the actuation forces and bottom out forces of the two switches differ, it is important to note that both fall within the medium range. Therefore, regardless of which switch is chosen, users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Strawberry hinges on personal preference – whether one prefers a lighter or heavier touch when typing.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches have a consistent and equal distance that they travel from the top to the bottom when a key is pressed. With their identical travel distances, users can expect similar results in terms of the tactile sensations and feedback experienced when typing or gaming with either switch.
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 Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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 description provided. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced by various factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is described as having a low-pitched sound. Low-pitched switches typically produce a bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It is also worth mentioning that the sound experience of both switches can be further customized based on the user's choice of keyboard setup.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Black Lotus switch is described as having several characteristics. It is referred to as silky, buttery, mild, and polished. A silky switch offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This switch also provides a seamless and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, its mild characteristics make it approachable to most users while maintaining a smooth and refined finish due to polished materials or factory lubing.
Similarly, the KTT Strawberry switch is also described as silky, buttery, and polished. It offers a frictionless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. This switch also provides a smooth and fluid travel. Similar to the Black Lotus switch, its polished characteristics contribute to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, while the specific sound qualities of the Durock Black Lotus switch are not mentioned, it is evident that both switches aim to provide a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. The Black Lotus switch offers a silky, buttery, mild, and polished feel, while the Strawberry switch focuses on a silky, buttery, and polished feel with a frictionless typing experience. Based on the information provided, it can be inferred that both switches are designed to deliver similar results of smooth and refined typing experiences, each with its own unique qualities. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-heavy switch with unparalleled precision and reduced wobble, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch is an excellent choice. Its silky and buttery feel, along with a medium actuation weight, provide a smooth and comfortable typing experience. The unique light column also adds a stylish touch. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium switch with an attractive pink and clear housing, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is worth considering. It offers smooth actuation, a comfortable feel, and reliable performance. Additionally, its low-pitched sound provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer frictionless and polished characteristics that further enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Black Lotus and the Strawberry boils down to your personal preferences in terms of weight, aesthetics, and sound profile.
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