Durock Blue Lotus vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Durock Blue Lotus and the KTT Lightning. The Blue Lotus switch from Durock is well-known for its tactile intensity and swift responsiveness. With a slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm, these switches deliver a marked tactile feel, perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying tactile experience. Additionally, the detachable light column adds a vibrant, glowy RGB illumination, combining performance with captivating visual appeal. On the other hand, the KTT Lightnings are linear switches that prioritize speed and precision. These switches are designed for situations where milliseconds can make all the difference in winning or losing. With a slick typing feel and a clacky sound profile, the Lightning switches provide an approachable and polished typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide the ideal switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the KTT Lightning differ in terms of their composition. The Blue Lotus features a modified PC and UPE blend for its top housing, which results in a unique and premium feel. On the other hand, the Lightning utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer a clear housing for RGB lighting, the Blue Lotus's modified PC and UPE blend may provide a different tactile experience compared to the stiffer polycarbonate of the Lightning.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon as their material of choice. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, whether it is the Blue Lotus or the Lightning, the nylon bottom housing contributes to the overall typing experience by providing a satisfying and immersive sound profile.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall performance of the switches, it is important to note that they play distinct roles. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, making it more influential when pressing down on the switch. On the contrary, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite the differences in their composition, both the Blue Lotus and the Lightning benefit from the qualities each housing material brings to the switch, ensuring a well-rounded and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Blue Lotus requires an actuation force of 55 grams, providing a medium-heavy push feel, while the Lightning only requires 43 grams of force for actuation, making it considerably lighter. Similarly, the Blue Lotus has a bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating a more substantial typing experience, whereas the Lightning has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is comparatively lighter.
Considering weight, those who prefer a lighter feel may opt for the Lightning switch as it allows them to type for longer periods of time without fatigue, making it ideal for both work and gaming. On the other hand, individuals seeking a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience would lean towards the Blue Lotus, as its heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a satisfying tactile response.
Overall, while the Blue Lotus offers a medium-heavy experience in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, the Lightning provides a lighter and more effortless typing experience. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preferences and the desired feel while using the keyboard.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch is 3.7 mm, while the KTT Lightning linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, particularly among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel when typing or gaming, the KTT Lightning switch with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt and prefer a switch with more depth. In this case, the Durock Blue Lotus switch with its longer travel distance would be a better fit. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing or gaming 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 KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Blue Lotus switches provide a bassy sound profile during key presses. This means that the sound has a deeper and richer quality, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning switches have a clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The sound is described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Additionally, the Lightning switches have a higher-pitched sound and even a chirpy quality to them. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Blue Lotus switches are described as accented, snappy, and stepped. Being an accented switch means that it provides a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The snappiness of these switches is attributed to longer or dual-staged springs, making the typing experience feel more alive. Additionally, the Blue Lotus switches have a stepped feel, meaning that there is a sense of pre-travel and/or post-travel in the keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning switches are described as subtle and polished. A subtle switch offers a gentle resistance while maintaining a light typing feel. The sound signature of the Lightning switches is not resonant, making them suitable for shared spaces. As for the polished aspect, it refers to a smooth and refined finish of the switch, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Durock Blue Lotus switches are known for their tactile intensity and swift responsiveness. They offer a unique blend of features, including a slightly reduced travel distance, which enhances the snappiness of the switches. With their detachable light columns, these switches also provide captivating visual appeal through vibrant RGB illumination. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning switches are popular "speed" switches, ideal for situations where split-second decisions can determine success or failure. They provide a slick typing feel and have a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. While the Blue Lotus switches deliver a bassy sound and an accented, snappy, and stepped feel, the Lightning switches offer a more subtle and polished experience. Depending on personal preferences and the desired typing experience, both switches can provide satisfactory results.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, consider your priorities and preferences. If you prioritize a marked tactile feel and swift responsiveness, the Blue Lotus switches are an excellent choice. With their reduced travel and detachable light column for vibrant RGB illumination, they offer both performance and captivating visual appeal. Additionally, if you prefer a bassy sound profile during key presses, the Blue Lotus switches deliver a deeper and richer sound.
On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and a slick typing feel, the KTT Lightning linear switches are perfect for you. These switches are known for their approachable "speed" characteristics and are ideal when milliseconds can make a difference. The clacky sound profile adds to their crisp and bright typing experience. If you prefer a high-pitched or chirpy sound, the Lightning switches provide a unique acoustic signature.
Ultimately, your choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing feel. So, consider what matters most to you and make an informed decision based on the information provided. Whether you choose the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch or the KTT Lightning linear switch, you can be confident that you'll have a keyboard switch that suits your needs.
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