Durock Blue Lotus vs. KTT Semi Mute

Overview

The Durock Blue Lotus and the KTT Semi Mute are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and benefits to cater to different preferences. The Blue Lotus switches, known for their tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, are perfect for those who enjoy a pronounced tactile feel while typing. With a slightly reduced travel distance and a detachable light column for vibrant RGB illumination, these switches not only provide an immersive typing experience but also add a captivating visual appeal to your keyboard. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switches, despite their name, offer completely silent operation, making them ideal for individuals who prioritize a noise-free environment and undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions. Featuring a linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, the Semi Mute switches provide a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.

By the numbers

Durock Blue Lotus Tactile

KTT Semi Mute Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

$3.97

$3.55 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and KTT Semi Mute switches differ, bringing unique characteristics to each switch. The Blue Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, which provides a premium feel and potentially a different sound profile. On the other hand, the Semi Mute utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. While they both have distinct advantages, the Blue Lotus offers a unique and premium feel, while the Semi Mute focuses on creating a clear and resonant sound profile.

Similarly, the bottom housing materials of these switches also differ in their impact on the overall typing experience. The Blue Lotus employs a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to the softer nature of nylon, allowing it to absorb more sound and create a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Semi Mute utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's relatively stiffer composition provides a more clear and resonant sound. Therefore, the Blue Lotus produces a sound profile that emphasizes depth and fullness, while the Semi Mute accentuates sharpness and clarity.

Generally, if a switch features different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the bottom-out and release sounds and feelings. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will affect the sound when the key is released. While the Blue Lotus and Semi Mute have different materials for their top and bottom housings, the overall typing experience will be influenced by these distinct characteristics. It is essential to consider this when choosing between the switches, taking into account the desired sound profile and tactile feel for an optimal typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The Blue Lotus has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Semi Mute's 43 grams, making it slightly heavier to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out force of the Blue Lotus is also higher at 65 grams, while the Semi Mute has a bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that when fully pressed down, the Blue Lotus requires a slightly heavier force. Overall, both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, with the Blue Lotus being the slightly heavier option. Individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Semi Mute, as its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for longer periods of comfortable typing. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Blue Lotus, as its higher forces provide a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.

Travel distance

In terms of travel distance, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the KTT Semi Mute linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances for keyboards. The Blue Lotus provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which is preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Semi Mute offers a longer travel distance, providing a deeper and more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a greater sense of depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Durock Blue Lotus switches have a bassy sound profile, characterized by a deeper and richer sound during key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switches have a muted sound, which is softer and quieter than regular mechanical switches. The Semi Mute switches aim to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.

Moving on to the feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switches are described as accented, snappy, and stepped. Accented describes a medium tactile switch that provides a noticeable amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. The snappiness of these switches is attributed to longer or dual-staged springs, enhancing the responsiveness of the typing experience. Additionally, the stepped characteristic means that there is a noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel in the key press. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switches are described as buttery and mild. A buttery switch offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The mild characteristic implies a more gentle typing experience, appealing to most users with its approachable qualities.

Based on the available information, the Durock Blue Lotus switches excel in providing a tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, coupled with a detachable light column for vibrant RGB illumination. They are perfect for those who enjoy a marked tactile feel. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switches prioritize a noise-free environment, offering completely silent operation with advanced dampening technology. They provide a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. While the Blue Lotus switches have a bassy sound profile, the Semi Mute switches focus on minimizing noise. In terms of feel, the Blue Lotus switches are accented, snappy, and stepped, while the Semi Mute switches are described as buttery and mild. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a marked tactile feel and vibrant RGB illumination, the Durock Blue Lotus would be a great choice. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, these switches deliver a snappy and accented typing experience. Additionally, if you enjoy a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, the Blue Lotus switches offer a bassy sound. On the other hand, if a noise-free environment and undisturbed typing are your priorities, the KTT Semi Mute linear switches are tailor-made for you. With a bottom out force of 58 grams, these switches provide a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. Their dampening technology ensures a softer and quieter sound, making them ideal for late-night sessions. Furthermore, the Semi Mute switches offer a buttery and mild typing experience, characterized by a smooth and fluid keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the Blue Lotus and the Semi Mute will depend on your preference for tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing feel.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Blue Lotus Tactile

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more

KTT Semi Mute Linear

$3.97

$3.55 per 10

Learn more