Durock Blue Lotus vs. KTT Darling
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the KTT Darling switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Blue Lotus and the KTT Darling each offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Blue Lotus from Durock is a tactile switch that is praised for its tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, thanks to its slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm. With a detachable light column for vibrant RGB illumination, the Blue Lotus not only performs well but also captivates visually. On the other hand, the KTT Darling is a linear switch known for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, complemented by a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. Acoustically, the Darling delivers a resonant, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, offering a distinct blend of tactile and auditory feedback. While both switches have their own strengths and categories, such as 'Accented' and 'Bassy' for the Blue Lotus and 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky' for the Darling, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 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 long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Blue Lotus and the KTT Darling switches both feature top housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Blue Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend top housing offers a unique and premium feel, while the Darling's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. Both materials have their own advantages, with the modified PC & UPE Blend providing a premium feel and the polycarbonate offering a clear and resonant sound. While they differ in terms of sound profile, both materials are known for their durability and translucency, making them ideal for switches with RGB lighting.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Blue Lotus and the Darling switches utilize nylon for its classic sound profile. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound when typing, as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Both switches benefit from the use of nylon in their bottom housings, as it helps to create a rounder and more muted sound profile. While the top and bottom housing materials may differ between the two switches, they both provide a similar typing experience with regards to sound profile and feel.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Blue Lotus and the KTT Darling switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and feel. The Blue Lotus's combination of modified PC & UPE Blend top housing and nylon bottom housing offers a unique and premium typing experience with a deep and full sound profile. On the other hand, the Darling's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing provide a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more high-pitched typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer quality materials that contribute to a satisfying typing experience, making them both great choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the KTT Darling linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Blue Lotus also requires a higher force of 65 grams compared to the Darling's 53 grams. This means that the Blue Lotus switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier feel, while the Darling switch offers a lighter touch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Darling switch, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Blue Lotus switch is more suitable for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, which is slightly longer than the 3.5 mm travel distance of the KTT Darling linear switch. Both switches fall within the realm of shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may appreciate the slightly shorter travel distance of the KTT Darling switch for quicker response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Blue Lotus switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Blue 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 Blue Lotus for $4.57.
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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 Durock Blue Lotus switch offers a bassy profile, providing a deeper and richer sound during key presses, while the KTT Darling switch is described as clacky, high-pitched, and resonant, delivering a sharp, crisp, and immersive auditory experience. The Blue Lotus switch emphasizes a lower frequency range for a more bass-heavy sound, whereas the Darling switch focuses on a brighter and more percussive sound profile. The choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound, with the Blue Lotus offering a deeper, more resonant tone and the Darling providing a sharper, more lively sound.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switch is accentuated with medium tactile feedback that is not overpowering, characterized as snappy and stepped, offering a responsive and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Darling switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a rebound effect when pressed. The Blue Lotus switch offers a balanced tactile feel with a prominent amount of tactility, while the Darling switch focuses on a more playful and responsive typing sensation. Choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a more defined tactile bump or a bouncier, springier feel.
In conclusion, the Durock Blue Lotus switch and the KTT Darling switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Lotus switch excels in providing a rich and bass-heavy sound profile, along with a snappy and stepped tactile feedback, perfect for those who enjoy a marked tactile feel. Conversely, the KTT Darling switch delivers a sharp, high-pitched, and resonant sound experience, coupled with a bouncy and elastic typing sensation for a truly satisfying feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct advantages that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the Durock Blue Lotus and the KTT Darling switches will provide you with a customized typing experience based on your personal preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch or the KTT Darling linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference in typing experience. If you value a tactile intensity and swift responsiveness with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Blue Lotus would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a typing sensation that's chewy and substantial with a pronounced bounciness and a medium-light bottom out force, the Darling would be the better option. Additionally, if you enjoy a more bassy sound profile and accentuated tactile feedback, the Blue Lotus is the way to go. However, if you prefer a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile with a bouncy typing experience, then the Darling is more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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