KTT Cream Yellow vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Cream Yellow and the Durock White Lotus. The Cream Yellow switch is known for its distinctively clacky sound, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem that provide resonant audio feedback. Additionally, its lengthened spring contributes to a uniquely bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the White Lotus switch is designed with the discerning typist in mind, offering a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance. It is ideal for work and extended typing sessions without overwhelming the user. The White Lotus switches also feature a removable light column, allowing for vibrant and luminous RGB lighting effects that add a captivating glow to your keyboard setup. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The KTT Cream Yellow and the Durock White Lotus both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Cream Yellow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound experience. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting. In contrast, the White Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, resulting in a unique and premium feel. While the specifics of this blend are not mentioned, it can be inferred that it offers a different sound profile compared to the Cream Yellow's polycarbonate housing.
On the other hand, both the Cream Yellow and the White Lotus have nylon bottom housings. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This characteristic is found in both switch models, allowing for a similar typing experience in terms of sound.
With the differences in top housing material, the Cream Yellow and the White Lotus will have varied sound profiles when pressing down on the keys. The Cream Yellow's polycarbonate top housing will contribute to a sharper and crisper sound upon bottoming out, while the modified PC and UPE Blend top housing of the White Lotus may produce a different, yet still premium, sound experience. However, the nylon bottom housing in both switches will provide a consistent and fuller sound when typing, as it absorbs sound in a similar manner for both models.
In terms of the overall typing experience, the choice between the KTT Cream Yellow and the Durock White Lotus will come down to personal preference. The Cream Yellow with its polycarbonate top housing will offer a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the White Lotus, featuring a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, will provide a unique and premium feel. However, both switches have the advantage of a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that should satisfy typists looking for a more distinct auditory experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, some notable differences can be seen. The Cream Yellow has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the White Lotus, which has an actuation force of 46 grams. However, both switches fall under the category of medium force.
In terms of bottom out force, the Cream Yellow has a slightly higher force requirement of 58 grams, while the White Lotus has a bottom out force of 56 grams. Both switches again fall within a medium force range, with the Cream Yellow being slightly heavier.
Considering the weight of the switches, some individuals may prefer the lighter option for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions. In this case, the White Lotus with its lower actuation and bottom out force could be more suitable. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience and stronger push feel may lean towards the Cream Yellow and its slightly higher actuation and bottom out force.
Overall, while there are slight differences in the actuation and bottom out forces between these two switches, both provide similar results within the medium force range. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it is evident that the Cream Yellow has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, whereas the White Lotus has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This distinction in travel distance can greatly impact the typing experience. The Cream Yellow, with its shorter travel distance, would be ideal for gamers or individuals seeking faster response times. The shorter distance allows for quicker keystrokes, resulting in improved efficiency and agility. On the other hand, the White Lotus, with its longer travel distance, offers a more substantial depth to each keystroke. This may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more tactile and immersive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user. Whether opting for the Cream Yellow's shorter travel distance or the White Lotus' longer travel distance, both switches can deliver satisfying results, catering to individuals seeking different typing experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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
In terms of sound, the Cream Yellow switch is best known for its distinctively clacky sound. When pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the White Lotus switch is described as having a low-pitched sound. This means it features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, the White Lotus has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Cream Yellow switch provides a uniquely bouncy typing experience. The keys have a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving them a lively feel and providing rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the White Lotus switch offers an easy-to-press experience. It has a gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The White Lotus switch can be described as having a mild feel, meaning it offers a gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Its qualities stand in a safe, middle-ground zone that is approachable to most typists. Moreover, the White Lotus switch has a subtle resistance, providing a light typing feel without being too feather-light. This also means that its sound signature is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces.
In conclusion, the Cream Yellow linear switch and the White Lotus tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Yellow switch delivers a clacky sound with its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, providing resonant audio feedback. It also provides a bouncy typing feel due to its lengthened spring. On the other hand, the White Lotus switch offers a low-pitched sound and a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance. It has an easy-to-press feel with a gentle resistance and provides a low-impact and low-fatigue typing experience. Additionally, the White Lotus switch features a removable light column for vibrant RGB lighting effects. Both switches have their unique characteristics, satisfying different preferences and typing styles. However, if you are looking for a similar sound profile to the White Lotus switch but still desire a linear switch, you can achieve comparable results by pairing the Cream Yellow switch with a keyboard board and keycaps that complement its characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a distinct and clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, it provides resonant audio feedback and a uniquely lively typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter tactile option with a delicate tactility, the White Lotus switch would be the perfect fit. It strikes the perfect balance between its gentle resistance and low-impact typing feel, making it suitable for extended typing sessions without overwhelming you. Additionally, the White Lotus switch offers the added benefit of vibrant and luminous RGB lighting effects, enhancing the aesthetics of your keyboard setup. Therefore, when it comes to choosing between the Cream Yellow and the White Lotus, consider your preference for sound and feel, and select the switch that aligns with your typing style and preferences.