Durock Blue Lotus vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Blue Lotus and the KTT Purple Click offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Blue Lotus switches from Durock are known for their tactile intensity and swift responsiveness. With a slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm, these switches provide a marked tactile feel, making them perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying keystroke. Additionally, the Blue Lotus switches come with a detachable light column for vibrant RGB illumination, adding an appealing visual element to their performance. On the other hand, the Purple Click switches, also known as Purple Sauce, offer a fairly high-pitched, satisfying click. These keystrokes are light and offer a pronounced tactility that strikes a perfect balance without overwhelming the user. With their crunchy and resonant feel, the Purple Click switches provide an invigorating typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Durock Blue Lotus and the KTT Purple Click have some similarities in their housing materials, but also some key differences. Both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound overall. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound with both switches.
However, where the switches differ is in their top housing materials. The Blue Lotus utilizes a modified PC and UPE blend housing, which gives it a unique and premium feel. This material is known for its durability and provides a solid and sturdy typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Click features a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It also offers the advantage of being translucent, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting.
The distinction in the top housing material means that the Blue Lotus will have a different overall feel and sound when releasing a key compared to the Purple Click. The modified PC and UPE blend of the Blue Lotus contributes to a more solid and satisfying "letting go" sensation. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Purple Click creates a clearer and resonant sound upon key release. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique characteristics, allowing users to choose according to their preference for feel and sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, there are notable differences to consider. Firstly, the Blue Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams, which is heavier than the Purple Click's 40 grams. This means that the Blue Lotus requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke compared to the Purple Click. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Blue Lotus is 65 grams, while the Purple Click requires 55 grams of force to fully press down. This indicates that the Blue Lotus provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
On the other hand, the lighter actuation force of the Purple Click makes it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. With only 40 grams of force needed to trigger a keystroke, it allows for smoother and quicker typing, which can be beneficial for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions. The lighter bottom out force of 55 grams also contributes to a lighter overall typing feel, making it more comfortable for extended periods of use.
While the Durock Blue Lotus and KTT Purple Click have different actuation and bottom out forces, it is important to note that both fall within the medium range, albeit on different ends. This means that regardless of the choice, users can expect a moderate amount of force required for typing. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience, whether it be a heavier and more substantial feel with the Blue Lotus or a lighter and smoother touch with the Purple Click.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch is 3.7 mm, while the KTT Purple Click clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Purple Click has a slightly longer travel distance than the Blue Lotus. The traditional travel distance for switches is 4.0 mm, while 3.0 mm is considered more shallow. However, shorter travel distances have become popular, especially among gamers who prefer faster response times. So, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Blue Lotus with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a switch with a more substantial depth. In such cases, the Purple Click with its longer travel distance might be a preferable option. Overall, both switches offer different travel distances, catering to the preferences and requirements of different users.
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 Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
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 switch provides a bassy profile, resulting in a deeper and richer sound during key presses. This sound is characterized by lower frequency tones resembling the depth and richness associated with bass. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch offers a crunchy and resonant sound. The clicky nature of these switches produces a sound reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. Additionally, the Purple Click switch provides a higher-pitched sound profile, creating an immersive auditory experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. However, both switches offer unique and satisfying sound profiles, providing users with enjoyable auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switch is accented, offering a medium level of tactility. It provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. These switches also have a snappy feel, thanks to their super responsiveness. This responsiveness can be attributed to the longer or dual-staged springs used in the switch, enhancing the typing experience. Additionally, the Blue Lotus switch has a stepped feel, meaning it provides a mild tactile experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch offers an invigorating feel. These switches offer pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. Similar to the Blue Lotus, the Purple Click switch also has a stepped feel that provides a milder tactile experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation.
In conclusion, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Lotus switch delivers a bassy sound profile and a medium level of tactility with a snappy and stepped feel. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch provides a crunchy and resonant sound with an invigorating and stepped feel. Both switches offer unique and enjoyable experiences for users, allowing them to tailor their typing experience to their preferences. Whether you prefer a deeper, bassy sound with a medium level of tactility or a crunchy, resonant sound with an invigorating feel, both switches will provide satisfactory results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a switch with a slightly heavier bottom-out force and a marked tactile feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switches would be a great choice. These switches offer a balance between tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, making them perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the detachable light column allows for vibrant RGB illumination, adding a visually appealing element to your mechanical keyboard setup. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom-out force and a satisfying click, the KTT Purple Click switches would be ideal. These switches provide a pronounced yet not overwhelming tactile feedback, creating a perfect equilibrium between actuation force and tactility. The high-pitched click sound adds an enjoyable auditory experience to your typing sessions. Whether you prioritize a deeper and richer sound profile (Blue Lotus) or a crunchy and resonant sound profile (Purple Click), both switches offer unique qualities to cater to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between Durock Blue Lotus and KTT Purple Click switches depends on your desired tactile feedback, actuation force, sound profile, and visual aesthetics.