KTT Kang White vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the KTT Kang White and the Durock White Lotus. The Kang White is a linear switch, known for its exquisite representation of a poppy linear switch and dazzling typing sound. Its self-lubricating material provides an unparalleled smoothness while typing. On the other hand, the White Lotus is a tactile switch designed with the discerning typist in mind. It offers a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance, making it ideal for work and extended typing sessions without overwhelming the user. Additionally, it features a removable light column, allowing for vibrant and luminous RGB lighting effects. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Kang White and the Durock White Lotus differ in terms of their composition but share similar outcomes. The Kang White features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting purposes. On the other hand, the White Lotus utilizes a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, which offers a unique and premium feel. Although the specific qualities of this blend are not highlighted, it can be inferred that it provides a desirable typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both keyboards utilize nylon. The Kang White's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the White Lotus elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. These shared characteristics indicate that typing on both keyboards would provide a similar auditory experience.
When considering the impact of the different housing materials, it's important to note that the top and bottom housings play distinct roles. The qualities attributed to each material are split between the top and bottom of the switches. When pressing down on a key, the bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced. Therefore, despite the differences in materials between the Kang White and the White Lotus, the overall typing experience may be comparable in terms of sound, albeit with slight variations based on the specific qualities of each housing material.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, we can see some notable similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Kang White requires 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the White Lotus requires 46 grams, making them fairly similar in this aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Kang White requires 58 grams, while the White Lotus requires 56 grams. This indicates that the Kang White has a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the White Lotus.
Considering weight in the decision-making process, some users may prefer a lighter switch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. In this regard, both switches offer a relatively light actuation force, ensuring a comfortable typing experience over longer periods of time. On the other hand, there are users who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, opting for switches with heavier forces, such as the Kang White with its higher bottom out force, might provide a more satisfying typing sensation.
In summary, while the actuation forces of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch are similar, the Kang White has a slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice of which switch to use will depend on the user's preferences and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of distance traveled. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and overall typing experience provided by both switches. The travel distance of 4 mm ensures a satisfying and comfortable keystroke, allowing for efficient and accurate typing. Whether you choose the KTT Kang White or the Durock White Lotus, you can be confident that the travel distance will be consistent and provide a pleasurable typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 per 10 switches.
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, both the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch are described as having a low-pitched sound profile. This means that they both produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, they are both described as having a neutral sound, meaning that they have a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, or if you are using them at home or work. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Kang White linear switch does not have any specific descriptors provided. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is described as having an easy-to-press feel. These switches offer 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. Additionally, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is described as having a mild typing experience, offering a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Overall, the White Lotus switches provide a responsive and low-impact typing feel. They are also described as having a subtle resistance, which is not too feather-light but still maintains a light typing feel. The sound signature of the White Lotus switches is said to not be resonant, making them suitable for shared spaces.
In conclusion, both the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch have their own unique subjective qualities. The Kang White is known for its dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness due to its self-lubricating material. The White Lotus, on the other hand, is designed with the discerning typist in mind, offering a delicate tactile feedback that strikes the perfect balance. Both switches have a low-pitched sound profile and a neutral sound, making them suitable for a wide range of users and environments. While the Kang White's feel is unspecified, the White Lotus switches are described as easy-to-press, providing a low-impact and comfortable typing experience. Overall, both switches offer their own distinct features and advantages, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences and typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a dazzling typing sound, the KTT Kang White switch is the way to go. Its self-lubricating material ensures unparalleled smoothness when typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a light tactile switch with a slightly lower bottom out force, the Durock White Lotus switch is the perfect choice. It offers a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance, making it ideal for work and extended typing sessions without overwhelming the user. Additionally, the White Lotus switch features a removable light column, allowing for vibrant and luminous RGB lighting effects.
In terms of sound, both switches have a low-pitched profile, resulting in a more bass-heavy and mellow typing experience. They also share a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various environments and user preferences.
When it comes to feel, the Kang White switch lacks specific descriptors, but it can be inferred that it offers a standard linear typing experience. However, the White Lotus switch offers an easy-to-press feel, with gentle resistance during key presses. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The White Lotus switch can also be described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience without any extreme characteristics. Additionally, its subtle resistance and non-resonant sound signature make it suitable for shared spaces.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch depends on your personal preferences and requirements. Consider the typing sound, feel, and lighting options when making your decision. You can't go wrong with either option as they both offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Happy typing!