Durock Blue Lotus vs. TTC Gold Silver
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the TTC Gold Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Blue Lotus and TTC Gold Silver offer unique features for different preferences. The Blue Lotus switch from Durock is known for its tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a marked tactile feel while also offering vibrant RGB illumination with a detachable light column. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver switch is lauded for its rapid responsiveness and smooth bottom-out, providing a sense of closure with each keystroke and a resonant sound signature. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, but offer high performance and quality. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 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
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
18mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the TTC Gold Silver, there are some notable differences. The Blue Lotus features a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, which gives it a unique and premium feel. On the other hand, the Gold Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer their own advantages, the polycarbonate used in the Gold Silver leads to a more clear and resonant sound, especially when combined with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
While the top housings may differ between the Blue Lotus and Gold Silver, both switches share a nylon bottom housing. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that enhances the overall typing experience for both switches. Despite having different top housings, the similar bottom housing materials in these switches provide a consistent sound profile when typing, creating a satisfying keystroke experience for users.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch can greatly impact the sound and feel of typing. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a combination of qualities in each switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Whether it be the unique and premium feel of the Blue Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend top housing or the sharper sound profile of the Gold Silver's polycarbonate top housing, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their combination of housing materials.
Weight
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Blue Lotus requires 65 grams, while the Gold Silver's bottom out force is unknown. The Blue Lotus provides a medium-heavy typing experience, while the Gold Silver's typing experience is not specified. The difference in weight between the two switches may affect typing preferences, with some users preferring a lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions and others opting for a heavier force for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, the Blue Lotus has a slightly longer travel distance at 3.7 mm compared to the Gold Silver's 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with 4.0mm being the traditional distance. Gamers may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Gold Silver for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the Blue Lotus. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Silver 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 Silver 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 is characterized by its bassy sound profile, offering a deep and rich tone during key presses. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver switch is known for its thocky, low-pitched sound that provides a satisfying and resonant experience. While the Blue Lotus delivers a deeper bass tone, the Gold Silver's sound signature is more varied with a rich thud-like response. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, but overall, the Gold Silver provides a broader range of sound options.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switch is praised for its accented tactility, providing a medium level of tactile feedback that is not overwhelming but still noticeable. Its snappy and stepped design offers a responsive and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver switch boasts a polished and silky feel, allowing for smooth key travel and reduced friction. With a mild and subtle typing experience, the Gold Silver switch offers a gentle resistance that is approachable to most users. While the Blue Lotus focuses on tactile responsiveness, the Gold Silver prioritizes smoothness and refinement.
Overall, the Durock Blue Lotus switch stands out for its tactile intensity and snappy responsiveness, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a pronounced tactile feel. Paired with vibrant RGB illumination, the Blue Lotus offers a visually captivating experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver switch excels in rapid responsiveness and smooth key travel, providing a seamless blend of speed, sound, and fluidity in each keystroke. Both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Whether you prefer a bassy and accented tactile experience with the Blue Lotus or a thocky and polished linear feel with the Gold Silver, you can expect satisfying results from either switch option.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, consider your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile. If you prioritize a pronounced tactile feel with snappy responsiveness and vibrant RGB illumination, the Blue Lotus may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value rapid responsiveness, a solid bottom-out, and a resonant sound signature without a tactile bump, the Gold Silver switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the typing experience you prefer, whether it be a tactile adventure with the Blue Lotus or a swift and smooth typing experience with the Gold Silver. Choose wisely based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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