TTC Gold Silver vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Silver and Durock White Lotus offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Gold Silver excels in rapid responsiveness with its shortened travel and solid bottom-out, providing a satisfying and decisive typing experience. On the other hand, the White Lotus switches prioritize a delicate tactility that strikes a perfect balance, ideal for extended typing sessions without overwhelming the user. While the Gold Silver leans towards speed, sound, and fluidity, the White Lotus offers a tranquil typing experience with the added bonus of vibrant RGB lighting effects. 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
45g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
1.40 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
NPI
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 housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the Durock White Lotus switches differ in their top housing composition. The Gold Silver utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the White Lotus features a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, providing a unique and premium feel to the switch. While the Gold Silver's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, the White Lotus's modified blend offers a different tactile experience for users.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Gold Silver and White Lotus switches make use of nylon. This classic switch housing material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches that use nylon. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. With both switches utilizing nylon for their bottom housing, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either the Gold Silver or White Lotus switches.
It is worth noting that the top and bottom housings of a switch play a significant role in the overall sound profile and tactile experience. The qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Gold Silver and White Lotus switches may have different housing materials for their top and bottom, users can expect a balanced and satisfying typing experience from both switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, we see that the Gold Silver has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the White Lotus's 46 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the White Lotus is noticeably heavier at 56 grams, while the Gold Silver's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the White Lotus offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel compared to the Gold Silver. When considering weight, lighter switches like the Gold Silver are preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming, while heavier switches like the White Lotus are favored for those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches cater to different preferences, with the Gold Silver being lighter and the White Lotus being heavier in comparison.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Durock White Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Gold Silver offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for individuals looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the White Lotus provides a longer travel distance, which may be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial key press. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold Silver being slightly shorter and the White Lotus being slightly longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Silver has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Silver for $2.90.
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 TTC Gold Silver switch has a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deep and satisfying typing experience that is not too intrusive. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switch also boasts a low-pitched sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is equally pleasing. Both switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various environments and preferences. Ultimately, whether you choose the Gold Silver or White Lotus, you can expect a pleasant and non-intrusive typing sound that enhances your overall typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Silver switch is polished and silky, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. Its mild and subtle characteristics provide a gentle resistance that is comfortable for most users. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switch is easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches share a mild and subtle typing feel, ensuring that the typing experience is approachable and enjoyable for a wide range of users. Whether you prefer the polished smoothness of the Gold Silver or the easy-to-press nature of the White Lotus, you can expect a comfortable and satisfying typing feel.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Silver excels in rapid responsiveness, producing a thocky sound and providing a polished and silky typing experience. On the other hand, the White Lotus is designed for a light tactile typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile and an easy-to-press feel. Both switches provide a balance of speed, sound, and comfort, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, whether you choose the Gold Silver for its rapid and precise typing experience or the White Lotus for its delicate tactility and smooth key presses, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Silver linear switch or the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for speed and precision versus a delicate balance of tactility and illumination. If you value rapid responsiveness, a solid bottom-out, and a smooth keystroke with a resonant sound, the Gold Silver switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a light tactile experience, a smooth and gentle typing feel, along with vibrant RGB lighting effects, the White Lotus switch could be the perfect fit for your typing needs. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, the decision rests in your hands to select the switch that will enhance your typing experience and elevate your keyboard setup.
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