TTC Bluish White vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are endless options to choose from. Two popular choices in the tactile switch category are the TTC Bluish White and the Durock White Lotus. The Bluish White switches are known for their satisfyingly poppy typing experience and snappy sound profile. They have a buttery and polished feel with a low-pitched sound. On the other hand, the White Lotus switches offer a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance, making them ideal for work and extended typing sessions. These switches also feature a removable light column, allowing for vibrant and luminous RGB lighting effects to enhance your keyboard setup. While both switches share qualities such as a low-pitched sound and subtle tactility, there are specific differences that may sway your decision. 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
42g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Bluish White and the Durock White Lotus differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Bluish White boasts a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances resonance and clarity, making it ideal for users who prioritize a distinct sound experience. In contrast, the White Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, known for its unique and premium feel. While specific sound characteristics are not mentioned, it can be inferred that this material choice enhances the overall tactile experience without sacrificing quality.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, a classic housing material known for its sound absorption capabilities. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon helps to create a duller and rounder sound, further enhancing the overall typing experience. While both switches share this material choice, it is important to note that the individual design and construction of the bottom housing may still play a role in the overall typing feel and sound.
In terms of impact on sound and feel, the distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housings is something to consider. The bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Meanwhile, the top housing is primarily responsible for the sound when releasing a key. While the specific attributes of the housing materials may differ between the two switches, this understanding applies to both, ensuring that users can expect similar results in terms of the overall typing experience and sound feedback.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Bluish White has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, whereas the White Lotus requires a slightly heavier force of 46 grams to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, in terms of bottom out force, the Bluish White requires 50 grams while the White Lotus requires a slightly higher force of 56 grams. Therefore, the White Lotus is both heavier in terms of actuation and bottom out force compared to the Bluish White. This means that individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Bluish White, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may find the White Lotus tactile switch to be more suitable. Overall, while the TTC Bluish White and Durock White Lotus offer similar tactile feedback, their actuation and bottom out forces provide users with distinct options to cater to their personal preferences and typing needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it is clear that the Bluish White has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the White Lotus has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, 4.0 mm is considered the most common, while 3.0 mm is more shallow. However, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the shorter travel distance of the Bluish White may be your preferred choice. On the other hand, some individuals might find the shorter travel distance too abrupt and prefer a switch with a longer travel distance like the White Lotus, which provides a deeper and more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for travel distance and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
The Durock White 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 White Lotus for $4.57.
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, both the TTC Bluish White and the Durock White Lotus switches have a low-pitched profile. This means that they offer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used. So while both switches have a similar low-pitched sound, the overall sound experience may vary depending on these additional elements.
In terms of feel, the TTC Bluish White switch is described as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished. This means that it provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with a gentle typing feel that is approachable to most typists. The switch also offers some pre-travel and/or post-travel, giving it a mild tactile sensation. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch contributes to reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switch is described as easy-to-press, mild, and subtle. This means that it offers a low-impact typing feel, requiring minimal force to activate. The switch enhances the typing experience by offering gentle resistance, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Similar to the Bluish White, the White Lotus switch has a gentle resistance and a sound signature that is suitable for shared spaces.
In conclusion, both the TTC Bluish White and the Durock White Lotus switches provide a satisfying and tactile typing experience. They share similarities in terms of sound, with a low-pitched profile. They also share qualities such as being mild and subtle, offering a gentle typing feel that is approachable to most users. However, the Bluish White switch has additional descriptors such as buttery and stepped, which indicate a smoother and more pronounced tactile experience. Additionally, the White Lotus switch is easy-to-press, providing an effortless and low-impact typing feel. Depending on the specific preferences and requirements of the user, either switch can deliver a delightful typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you desire a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a lighter bottom out force, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch would be your ideal choice. These switches offer a snappy sound profile and provide a seamless and effortless typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a delicate tactility and a slightly higher bottom out force, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch would be more suitable. These switches strike the perfect balance between light and medium-light, making them ideal for work and extended typing sessions without overwhelming the user. Additionally, the White Lotus switches feature a removable light column, allowing for vibrant RGB lighting effects that add a captivating glow to your keyboard setup. Ultimately, the decision between the Bluish White and White Lotus switches will depend on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Both switches offer their unique qualities, so choose the one that aligns with your typing preferences and enhances your overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
