Durock Blue Lotus vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Blue Lotus, a tactile switch, to the KTT Purple Star, a linear switch, it is clear that they each offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Blue Lotus stands out for its tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, making it ideal for those who enjoy a marked tactile feel while typing. Additionally, the detachable light column adds a visually appealing touch to the overall performance of the switch. On the other hand, the Purple Star is praised for its buttery smooth typing experience and neutral sound signature, providing ease and comfort for light typists. While the Blue Lotus is categorized as 'Accented', 'Bassy', 'Snappy', 'Stepped', the Purple Star falls under 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', 'Easy-to-press'. Both switches have their strengths and it ultimately depends on personal preference. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Blue Lotus and the KTT Purple Star both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall feel and sound. The Blue Lotus utilizes a Modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, which gives it a premium and unique feel. On the other hand, the Purple Star features a POM top housing that creates a pleasing and deep sound profile. While both switches have distinct qualities in their top housing materials, they both offer a premium feel and sound experience for users.
In terms of bottom housing, the Blue Lotus comes with a nylon bottom housing that is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic material. This results in a more muted and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the Purple Star also has a POM bottom housing that contributes to its deep and relatively muted sound profile. Both switches create a unique sound experience for users, with the housing materials playing a significant role in the overall sound output of the switches.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the switches, it is important to note that they each bring different qualities to the overall feel and sound. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when a key is released. Despite the differences in housing materials between the Blue Lotus and the Purple Star, both switches offer users a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles and premium feel. Whether it be the nylon and UPE blend of the Blue Lotus or the POM material of the Purple Star, users can expect a high-quality typing experience from both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Lotus is heavier in both aspects. The Blue Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Purple Star is lighter, with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Generally, a lighter switch like the Purple Star is preferred by those who type for long periods or engage in extended gaming sessions, as it requires less force to actuate. Conversely, the heavier Blue Lotus provides a more substantial typing experience and may be favored by those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing experience. For those who prefer a quicker response time and a shallower press, the Purple Star may be the better choice. On the other hand, the Blue Lotus provides a slightly deeper press, which some users may find more comfortable for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer a unique feel and performance, so trying them out firsthand is the best way to determine which one suits your needs best.
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 Star comes in at $4.88 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 switch is known for its bassy profile, providing a deeper and richer sound during key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star switch offers a low-pitched tone, delivering a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences that can be enhanced or altered based on the keyboard and keycap setup used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switch is characterized as accented, snappy, and stepped, providing a tactile typing experience that is both responsive and engaging. In comparison, the KTT Purple Star switch is described as mild and easy-to-press, offering a gentle typing feel with minimal force required for activation. While the Blue Lotus offers a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Purple Star focuses on providing a comfortable and effortless typing experience suitable for light typists.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel differences between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is evident that they cater to distinct preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Blue Lotus excels in providing a tactile and responsive typing experience with a bassy sound profile, ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feel. On the other hand, the Purple Star offers a smooth and easy-to-press typing experience with a low-pitched sound signature, making it a great choice for those who prefer a gentler typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing comfort.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience and sound. If you enjoy a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and snappy, accented feel, then the Blue Lotus would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light linear switch with a buttery smooth typing experience and low-pitched sound, then the Purple Star would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
