Durock Blue Lotus vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch presents a unique opportunity for users to tailor their typing experience to their preferences. The Blue Lotus switch stands out for its tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, making it ideal for those who enjoy a marked tactile feel while also featuring vibrant RGB illumination for added visual appeal. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro switch offers a versatile and seamless typing experience with its neutral sound signature, fitting harmoniously in any setting. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Spring
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and TTC Gold Red Pro switches offer unique qualities that contribute to the overall typing experience. The Blue Lotus features a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, which provides a unique and premium feel. In contrast, the Gold Red Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials are high-quality, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches use nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. With both the Blue Lotus and Gold Red Pro featuring nylon bottom housings, typists can expect a consistent tactile experience that emphasizes the qualities nylon brings to the table. Whether it's the bottom-out sound or the overall typing feel, nylon bottom housings play a significant role in shaping the typing experience of these switches.
While the housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and TTC Gold Red Pro switches may differ in terms of top housing, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with distinct sound profiles. Whether it's the unique and premium feel of the Blue Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend top housing or the sharper and crisper sound profile of the Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top housing, typists can expect a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, with both switches utilizing nylon bottom housings, typists can enjoy a consistent and deep sound profile that enhances the overall typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of housing materials and the typing experience they provide.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, it is clear that the Blue Lotus is the heavier option. With an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, it offers a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro is lighter, with an actuation force of 43 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Gold Red Pro is not specified. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gold Red Pro, as the lighter actuation force allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. Meanwhile, the Blue Lotus may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, we find that the Blue Lotus has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gold Red Pro has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The difference between the two is minimal, with the Gold Red Pro being slightly longer. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular for their faster response times, especially among gamers. Ultimately, the decision between the two may come down to personal preference - if you prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more substantial feel, the Gold Red Pro may be the better choice. Conversely, if you prefer a more responsive and quicker keypress, the Blue Lotus would be the way to go. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, so the choice between them may come down to other factors such as switch type or overall feel.
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 TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 sound profile, providing a deep and rich auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro switch is described as having a thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound signature, making it versatile across different settings. The choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for sound, with the Blue Lotus appealing to those who enjoy a deeper bass tone and the Gold Red Pro catering to users who prefer a more neutral and versatile sound profile.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Blue Lotus is highlighted for its accented, snappy, and stepped tactile characteristics. These qualities contribute to a tactile feel that is pronounced yet not overwhelming, providing a responsive typing experience with a distinct tactile feedback. The Gold Red Pro, on the other hand, is described as polished, silky, mild, and subtle in feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance. This contrast in tactile attributes showcases the different typing experiences that can be achieved with each switch, catering to varying preferences for tactility.
Overall, the Durock Blue Lotus and TTC Gold Red Pro switches each offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Lotus excels in providing a bassy sound profile and a snappy tactile feel, perfect for users seeking a tactile switch with a striking auditory and tactile experience. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro offers a versatile sound signature and a polished, silky feel, making it a well-rounded choice for users looking for a smooth and refined typing experience across different environments. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on the individual's preference for sound and feel, with both options providing a satisfying and engaging typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch or the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and intended use. If you're someone who values a tactile typing experience with snappy feedback and vibrant RGB illumination, the Blue Lotus may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and versatile typing experience with a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various settings, the Gold Red Pro could be the better option. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and bottom out force when making your decision, and remember that both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Blue Lotus and Gold Red Pro switches will depend on what kind of typing experience you're looking for.
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