Durock Blue Lotus vs. TTC Ice

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often comes down to personal preference and typing style, particularly when comparing tactile switches like the Durock Blue Lotus and linear options like the TTC Ice. The Blue Lotus is celebrated for its pronounced tactile feedback and swift responsiveness, making it ideal for users who appreciate a distinct bump on each keystroke. With a reduced travel distance of 3.7 mm and a detachable light column for striking RGB illumination, these switches offer both performance and aesthetic appeal. Conversely, the TTC Ice switches present a contrasting experience with their smooth, linear feel and crystal-clear design, catering to users who value a quieter, uninterrupted typing experience that is equally suitable for gaming and day-to-day tasks. The Ice's design enhances the overall typing experience with a satisfying bottom-out sound, providing a premium feel without the tactile interference. While both switches have their unique strengths—whether it's the tactile excitement of the Blue Lotus or the feathery smoothness of the Ice—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Durock Blue Lotus Tactile

TTC Ice Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the TTC Ice switches, notable differences arise in both the top and bottom housings. The Blue Lotus incorporates a modified polycarbonate and UPE blend for its top housing, which is designed to provide a unique and premium feel, while the Ice utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that is known for its rigidity, contributing to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The polycarbonate in the Ice switch enhances the auditory experience by offering a higher-pitched sound. This contrast in housing materials suggests that users of the Blue Lotus may experience a more cushioned typing feel compared to the more pronounced sound clarity offered by the Ice switches.

At the bottom housing level, significant differences continue to define the character of each switch. The Blue Lotus employs a nylon bottom housing, a traditional choice that provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's relatively softer nature. This material absorbs more sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate utilized in the Ice switch, which contributes to a high-pitched and resonant auditory experience. Consequently, users of the Blue Lotus will benefit from a smoother, more muted sound upon bottoming out, whereas the Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing will yield a more pronounced and crisp sound upon key release. The disparity in sound profiles between these two switches can thus be attributed to the bottom housing material's impact.

When considering the overall auditory and tactile experiences, the combination of different housing materials in the Blue Lotus and Ice switches yields distinct sensations while also creating opportunities for overlapping acoustic outcomes. The Blue Lotus's combination of modified polycarbonate and nylon produces an experience that leans towards softer, fuller sounds, while the Ice switch's polycarbonate components summon a sharper, more vibrant auditory signature. Although their sound profiles differ due to their contrasting materials, enthusiasts looking for specific qualities, such as RGB compatibility or sound depth, may find that despite their differences, both switches can still deliver commendable performance in terms of feel and sound, albeit in varying degrees.

Weight

The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the TTC Ice linear switch present distinct profiles in terms of actuation and bottom-out forces, catering to different typing preferences. The Blue Lotus has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the lighter 45 grams of the Ice switch, making the latter easier to press and potentially more comfortable for prolonged usage. Additionally, the bottom-out force of the Blue Lotus is 65 grams, which is slightly higher than the Ice's 60 grams. This means that while both switches require a noticeable amount of force to bottom out, the Ice provides a softer landing. Overall, if you prefer a lighter touch, the TTC Ice linear switch might be more suited for longer typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, if you enjoy the feel of a more substantial push, the Durock Blue Lotus offers a medium-heavy typing experience that some may find more satisfying.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Lotus offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Ice switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference is minor, yet notable; gamers and users who favor a more responsive experience might lean towards the shorter 3.6 mm travel of the Ice switch. Conversely, those who appreciate a deeper feel while typing may prefer the Blue Lotus due to its additional 0.1 mm. Overall, while both switches provide a satisfactory typing experience, the Blue Lotus is the better choice for those who prefer a slightly greater travel depth, whereas the Ice will cater to those who prioritize quicker key presses.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Durock Blue Lotus switches exhibit a bassy tone that delivers a deep and rich audio feedback with each keystroke. This lower frequency sound profile can create an immersive typing experience, giving a sense of weight and solidity to every action. In contrast, the TTC Ice switches produce a clacky sound, characterized by a sharp and snappy quality that is crisp and bright. This percussive sound adds a lively dynamic to typing sessions, and it can be particularly appealing to those who enjoy responsive auditory feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference—whether one favors the deeper, more resonant tones of the Blue Lotus or the vivacious, high-pitched chimes of the Ice.

Regarding the feel, the Blue Lotus switches provide an accented tactile experience, which allows for a prominent tactile feedback that is neither overwhelmingly aggressive nor too subtle. Their stepped design means there is a noticeable change in resistance during the key press, creating a tactile sensation that can be described as having two distinct stages. This makes the Blue Lotus ideal for users who appreciate a pronounced tactile response without feeling fatigued. On the other hand, the TTC Ice switches are defined by their feathery feel. They are exceptionally light to press, requiring minimal force to actuate, which translates to reduced finger fatigue during long typing sessions. This gentler approach caters particularly well to those who prioritize comfort and smooth key presses over tactile resistance.

In summary, the Durock Blue Lotus and TTC Ice switches each offer unique auditory and tactile qualities, catering to different user preferences. The Blue Lotus combines a bassy sound with an accented, stepped tactile feedback that makes for an engaging typing experience, while the TTC Ice features a clacky sound coupled with a feathery, lightweight feel that emphasizes ease of use and comfort. Depending on whether a keyboard enthusiast values a rich tonal experience or a lightweight, agile touch, either of these switches will provide a satisfying typing experience, showcasing how personal comfort and sound preference can significantly impact one’s enjoyment of mechanical keyboards.

Conclusion

To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, your decision should largely depend on your specific preferences in typing feel, sound, and intended usage. If you enjoy a prominent tactile experience that provides both feedback and a satisfying sound, such as the deep, bassy tones of the Blue Lotus, then these switches would be perfect for you. Their medium-heavy actuation force of 65 grams ensures that you feel each keystroke distinctly, making them ideal for typists or gamers who appreciate tactile sensations and responsiveness. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more linear feel with a lighter touch, the TTC Ice switch may be the better choice. With its 60-gram actuation force and a feathery feel that encourages minimal finger fatigue, the Ice switch is excellent for longer typing sessions, be it for work or gaming. The clacky sound profile adds a lively auditory feedback that many users find enjoyable. Ultimately, the choice boils down to whether you prioritize tactile feedback and auditory experience with the Blue Lotus or a smooth, less demanding typing experience with the Ice switches.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Blue Lotus Tactile

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more

TTC Ice Linear

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn more