Durock Blue Lotus vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Durock Blue Lotus and the TTC Speed Silver. The Blue Lotus switches from Durock are known for their striking blend of tactile intensity and swift responsiveness. With a slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm, as opposed to the standard 4mm, these switches offer a snappy typing experience that is perfect for those who enjoy a marked tactile feel. Additionally, the Blue Lotus switches feature a detachable light column for vibrant and glowy RGB illumination, making them not only perform well but also visually appealing. On the other hand, the Speed Silvers from TTC are for those who value a fast and precise typing experience. These linear switches have a light-medium level of resistance and provide a pristine sound profile. With a reduced travel distance, they allow for quick and effortless actuation. Both switches have their unique characteristics and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 used in the Durock Blue Lotus and TTC Speed Silver switches exhibit noticeable differences. The Blue Lotus features a modified PC and UPE blend top housing, which provides a unique and premium feel. In contrast, the Speed Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it particularly suitable for switches with RGB lighting. While both materials offer distinct advantages, the Blue Lotus offers a more luxurious feel, while the Speed Silver emphasizes a clearer and more resonant sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches employ nylon, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Consequently, both the Blue Lotus and Speed Silver share a similar acoustic quality that provides a satisfying typing experience.
It is important to note that if a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material will be split between the top and bottom portions. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing's characteristics will be more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have more impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, although they differ in makeup, both the Blue Lotus and Speed Silver switches will yield similar results when it comes to the tactile and acoustic aspects of typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Blue Lotus has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams, compared to the Speed Silver's lighter 45 grams. This means that the Blue Lotus requires a slightly stronger push to register a keystroke, making it ideal for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Speed Silver has a lighter actuation force, which may be preferred by those who like a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions.
In terms of bottom out force, the Blue Lotus is again slightly heavier with a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Speed Silver has a bottom out force of 55 grams. The bottom out force measures the amount of force required to fully depress a key. Similar to the actuation force, the Blue Lotus offers a heavier bottom out force, providing a more solid and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Conversely, the Speed Silver's lighter bottom out force may be more suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter and less fatiguing typing experience over longer periods of time.
In summary, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch is the heavier option, with both its actuation force and bottom out force exceeding that of the TTC Speed Silver linear switch. However, it's important to note that while the Blue Lotus offers a more substantial typing experience, the Speed Silver provides a lighter touch, which may be preferable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is clear that there is a difference between the two. The Blue Lotus has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Speed Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. In terms of traditional standards, both switches fall within the range of what is considered typical. However, for those who prioritize faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Speed Silver may be more appealing. Gamers, for instance, often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, individuals who value a more substantial tactile experience may prefer the Blue Lotus, which offers a slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences 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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 are known for their bassy profile. The lower frequency range creates a deep and rich sound during key presses. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switches have a neutral sound profile. This means they offer a moderate sound that is suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user and whether you are using them at home or in the office. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switches have a combination of characteristics. They can be described as accented, meaning they provide a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, they are snappy, thanks to longer or dual-staged springs, which enhances the typing experience. Lastly, these switches have a stepped feel, which means there is some pre-travel and/or post-travel, giving a more mild tactile experience compared to hypertactile switches.
On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switches offer a mild typing experience. They provide a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, these switches are polished, which indicates a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
When considering all the available information, it is clear that the Durock Blue Lotus switches excel in providing a tactile and snappy typing experience with a bassy sound profile. They are visually appealing with detachable light columns for vibrant RGB illumination. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switches prioritize a fast and precise typing experience, offering a mild and polished feel with a neutral sound profile.
If you are looking for a switch with a similar tactile experience to the Durock Blue Lotus but prefer a linear switch, the TTC Speed Silver would be a good choice. Although the sound and feel may be different, the Speed Silver switches still offer a quick and effortless actuation that some users may prefer. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the specific typing requirements of the user.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you prioritize a marked tactile feel and vibrant visual appeal, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, these medium-heavy switches deliver a satisfying tactile intensity combined with swift responsiveness. The slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm adds to the snappiness of the Blue Lotus switches. Additionally, the detachable light column allows for captivating RGB illumination. On the other hand, if you value a fast and precise typing experience, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is your best choice. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, these medium-light switches offer a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile. The reduced travel distance enables quick and effortless actuation. Overall, the Blue Lotus is known for its accented and snappy feel, while the Speed Silver is characterized by its mild and polished typing experience. Consider your preferences for tactility, sound, and feel when making your decision between these two switches.
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