TTC Honey vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a variety of options to choose from, each offering a different typing experience. Two popular switches that stand out in the market are the TTC Honey and the Durock White Lotus. The TTC Honey is a linear switch well-known for its smooth and creamy feel, providing a frictionless typing experience. It also boasts a deep and pleasant sound profile, enhancing the overall typing satisfaction. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus is a tactile switch specifically designed for typists who value a delicate tactility. With its light and balanced feedback, this switch is perfect for extended typing sessions without overwhelming the user. Additionally, the White Lotus features a removable light column, allowing for vibrant RGB lighting effects that add a captivating glow to your keyboard setup. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
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
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Honey and the Durock White Lotus switches differ in terms of their composition. The Honey utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, while the White Lotus features a modified PC and UPE blend top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate used in the Honey switch creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the White Lotus's modified PC and UPE blend housing provides a unique and premium feel, offering a different tactile experience compared to the Honey's polycarbonate construction.
In terms of sound profile, both switches have their own distinct characteristics. The TTC Honey's polycarbonate top and bottom housing contribute to a sharper and higher-pitched sound, emphasizing clarity and resonance. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of the nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the White Lotus switch. Therefore, users seeking a sharper and crisper sound may prefer the Honey, while those desiring a deeper and fuller sound may favor the White Lotus.
Despite their differences, both switches' housing materials play a crucial role in their overall performance. The bottom housing, whether polycarbonate or nylon, significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Honey and White Lotus vary in their housing materials, users can expect similar results when it comes to certain aspects of the switch's performance, such as their impact on keypress sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Honey linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it becomes apparent that there are differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. In terms of actuation force, the Honey switch requires a lighter touch with 42 grams, while the White Lotus switch is slightly heavier at 46 grams. This means that the Honey switch would be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter keystroke, allowing for longer typing periods or extended gaming sessions without excessive fatigue. On the other hand, the White Lotus switch offers a medium-light actuation force, providing a slightly more substantial typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Honey switch requires 50 grams of force to fully press down, while the White Lotus switch has a bottom out force of 56 grams. The difference here means that the White Lotus switch requires a slightly stronger push to fully engage the keystroke, providing a more tactile and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a more substantial push feel. However, it's worth noting that both switches fall within a similar range, ensuring a consistent and comfortable typing experience overall.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter switch for longer typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Honey switch as it offers a lower actuation force and bottom out force. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may find the White Lotus switch more appealing due to its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience, ensuring that there is a suitable option for every typist or gamer.
Travel distance
When it comes to travel distance, the TTC Honey linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch have slight differences. The Honey has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the White Lotus has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both of these distances fall within the range of what is considered normal for switch travel distances. A 4.0 mm travel distance is the most traditional, while a 3.0 mm travel distance is considered more shallow. However, the rise of gaming has led to a preference for shorter travel distances among gamers who desire faster response times. In this case, the Honey switch with its shorter travel distance would be the preferred option. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer a switch with a longer travel distance for a more satisfying key press. In this scenario, the Durock White Lotus switch with its slightly longer travel distance would be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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, the TTC Honey linear switch is best described as producing a deep and pleasant sound profile. While not completely silent, it offers a more subtle and dampened sound compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is characterized by a low-pitched sound. It features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, contributing to a pleasing auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience. However, it's important to note that the sound produced by a switch is influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Honey linear switch is known for its smooth and creamy typing experience. With a lubricated factory finish or specific materials, these switches offer a silky sensation. Typing on the Honey switch feels effortless and fluid, as if gliding your fingers across the keys. Additionally, it is described as having a frictionless and polished feel, with reduced resistance and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is designed to be easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate. It offers a low-impact typing feel that minimizes finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The White Lotus switch is also characterized as being mild, providing a gentle typing experience without being overly pronounced. Both switches offer a comfortable and approachable typing feel, catering to different preferences.
In conclusion, the TTC Honey linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Honey switch offers a smooth and creamy feel with a deep and pleasant sound profile, while the White Lotus switch provides an easy-to-press feel with a low-pitched sound. These switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, allowing users to find their preferred typing experience. It's important to consider other factors such as keycaps and keyboard boards to fully optimize the sound and feel of the switches. However, based on the available information, users can expect similar results in terms of subjective qualities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the TTC Honey linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, consider your personal preferences and needs. If you prioritize a light bottom out force and enjoy a smooth and creamy typing experience, the Honey switch may be the better choice for you. These switches offer a deep and pleasant sound profile, creating a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a delicate tactility, the White Lotus switch is a great option. These switches strike the perfect balance between tactile feedback and typing comfort, making them ideal for work and extended typing sessions. Additionally, the White Lotus switches feature a removable light column, allowing for vibrant RGB lighting effects. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities and it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences.
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