Durock Black Lotus vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Durock T1 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, a linear switch, and the Durock T1, a tactile switch. The Black Lotus is renowned for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, ensuring reduced housing and stem wobble for maximum typing pleasure. With a substantial actuation weight of 55g, it provides a satisfying level of resistance without being too hefty. Additionally, the unique light column of the Black Lotus offers in-switch lighting that is fully removable. On the other hand, the T1 stands out for its comfortability during typing sessions. Users can expect a medium bump when pressing down, providing a tactile feedback that mimics the sound of rain falling on a window. The T1 is characterized by its stepped, low-pitched feel and neutral, accented sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your specific preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Durock T1 switches offer distinct characteristics that contribute to their overall performance and sound profile. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE blend top housing, which provides a unique and premium feel. In contrast, the T1 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer durability and a satisfying typing experience, the Black Lotus is likely to offer a more luxurious sensation, while the T1 leans towards a brighter and more defined sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Black Lotus and the T1 employ nylon as the chosen material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer plastic and its ability to absorb sound. However, the impact of these qualities may differ between the two switches. As the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, it can be expected that both the Black Lotus and the T1 will deliver a satisfying and resonant typing experience.
Despite their differences, it is worth noting that the top and bottom housings of both switches play a significant role in the overall sound and feel. The top housing contributes to the sound profile when the key is released, while the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and overall typing experience. Consequently, although the Black Lotus and T1 may have variations in their materials, both switches are engineered to provide a high-quality typing experience, ensuring similar results in terms of performance and satisfaction.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, there are both similarities and differences to consider. The Black Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams, whereas the actuation force of the T1 switch is unavailable. Both switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams, making them both fall under the category of medium-heavy switches.
For individuals who prefer a lighter feel while typing or gaming, the lighter actuation force of the Black Lotus may be more suitable. This allows for longer periods of typing without experiencing as much fatigue. On the other hand, those who crave a stronger push and a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the T1 switch due to its heavier bottom out force.
While the actuation force of the T1 switch is unknown, it is important to note that the bottom out force is higher than that of the Black Lotus. Therefore, if the actuation force of the T1 switch is similar to the Black Lotus, users can expect to achieve a comparable typing experience in terms of force required to trigger keystrokes.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch comes down to personal preference. Whether one prefers a lighter actuation force or a heavier bottom out force, both switches offer medium-heavy options for a satisfying typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm, providing a similar experience when pressing down on a key. Both switches will offer a consistent feel and response due to their equal travel distance. The similarity in travel distance ensures that users will have a similar typing experience regardless of which switch they choose.
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 Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 switch is best described as unknown based on the information provided. However, the T1 switch is described as having a low-pitched sound profile. Low-pitched switches typically produce a bass-heavy and mellow tone, similar to the sound of rain falling on a window. Please note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Black Lotus switch is known for its silky, buttery, mild, and polished typing experience. These descriptors indicate that the Black Lotus offers an exceptionally smooth keystroke with minimal resistance. It provides a seamless and effortless typing sensation, while also having a gentle and approachable feel. The polished finish further enhances the smoothness of the typing experience by reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the T1 tactile switch is described as having a stepped, accented, and polished feel. Stepped switches are tactile switches with a two-stage keystroke, offering a mild tactile bump with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The accented description suggests that the T1 provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Like the Black Lotus, the T1 also features a polished switch design, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Based on the available information, it can be concluded that the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Black Lotus has an unknown sound profile, while the T1 has a low-pitched sound similar to rain falling on a window. In terms of feel, the Black Lotus provides a silky, buttery, mild, and polished typing experience, while the T1 offers a stepped, accented, and polished feel. Both switches prioritize smoothness and the reduction of wobble for maximum typing pleasure. If you prefer a linear switch, the Black Lotus will provide similar smoothness and precision as the T1's tactile experience.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, both the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience. If you value a smooth and precise keystroke with minimal wobble, the Black Lotus is the switch for you. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it strikes a balance between substantial actuation weight and comfortable typing. Additionally, its unique light column feature adds a touch of customizable lighting to your keyboard.
On the other hand, if you prioritize comfort while typing, the T1 tactile switch is an excellent choice. It offers a medium bump when pressing down, reminiscent of rain falling on a window. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, it provides a satisfying tactile feedback without being too heavy. Its polished finish ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel, further enhancing your typing experience.
In terms of sound, the Black Lotus offers a yet-to-be-described sound profile, while the T1 produces a low-pitched sound that adds a bass-heavy and mellow tone to your typing experience. Therefore, if you prefer a more neutral and moderate sound profile, the T1 switch is suitable for various situations, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work.
In summary, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch is ideal for those seeking a smooth and precise typing experience with customizable lighting features. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch prioritizes comfort, offering a satisfying medium bump and a low-pitched sound. Consider your preferences in terms of feel, sound, and typing experience to choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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