Durock Medium Tactile vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are plenty of options to consider. Two popular choices are the Durock Medium Tactile and the Durock White Lotus, both of which offer a tactile typing experience. The Medium Tactile is beloved for its balanced yet pronounced tactility, providing a satisfying feedback with its jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the White Lotus is designed with the discerning typist in mind, offering a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance for work and extended typing sessions. Additionally, the White Lotus features a removable light column, allowing for vibrant and luminous RGB lighting effects that can truly enhance your keyboard setup. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the Durock White Lotus differ in their composition but ultimately provide similar results in terms of sound and feel. The Medium Tactile features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is thanks to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the White Lotus utilizes a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, which provides a unique and premium feel. While the specific characteristics of the blend are not mentioned, it is likely that it adds to the overall tactile experience of using the switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Medium Tactile and the White Lotus make use of nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that utilize this material. Both switches benefit from this quality, creating a satisfying auditory experience for typists.
It is worth noting that the differences in top and bottom housings of these switches lead to slightly varied sound experiences. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more prominent, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite these distinctions, users can expect similar outcomes in terms of sound and feel from both the Durock Medium Tactile and the Durock White Lotus, as they each employ materials that enhance the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, there are notable differences. The actuation force of the Medium Tactile switch is unavailable, while the White Lotus requires an actuation force of 46 grams. This means that the White Lotus switch will be lighter to activate, providing a more sensitive and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the bottom out force of the Medium Tactile switch is 65 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the White Lotus has a bottom out force of 56 grams, positioning it in the medium-light range. As a result, the Medium Tactile switch will require more force to fully press the keys, offering a more solid and substantial key press.
Weight is an essential factor to consider when deciding between these switches. Some individuals may prefer the lighter actuation force of the White Lotus for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming, as it allows for less fatigue over time. On the other hand, those seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback may opt for the heavier actuation force of the Medium Tactile switch, providing a satisfying and substantial keystroke experience. Both switches offer their unique typing experiences, catering to individual preferences and purposes.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience a consistent 4 mm of travel distance. As a result, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance you feel when using either switch. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile feedback and a consistent travel distance, making them suitable options for those seeking a reliable typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile for $4.25.
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 Durock Medium Tactile switch is known for its jelly-like sound signature, providing a unique auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switch is described as having a low-pitched sound profile. Low-pitched switches tend to produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This means that the sound produced by the White Lotus switches will be deeper and less sharp. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, both switches offer distinct sound qualities that can enhance the typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is best described as accented, stepped, mild, and polished. This combination of qualities results in a switch that provides a prominent amount of tactility without overwhelming the user. Additionally, the stepped feel of the switch adds a mild and refined typing experience, with noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel. The Durock White Lotus switch, on the other hand, is known for being easy-to-press, mild, and subtle. These switches offer gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. The low actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Similarly, the mild and subtle qualities of the White Lotus switch provide a gentle typing feel without being feather-light. In conclusion, both switches offer different combinations of tactile feedback and smoothness, catering to users with varying preferences.
Taking all the available information into account, it is clear that both the Durock Medium Tactile and the Durock White Lotus switches have their own unique qualities. The Medium Tactile switch stands out with its pronounced yet balanced tactility, jelly-like sound signature, and polished finish for a smoother typing experience. On the other hand, the White Lotus switch excels in providing delicate tactility, a low-pitched sound profile, an easy-to-press feel, and subtle characteristics suitable for shared spaces. While the feel and sound of these switches may differ, it's worth noting that they both fall within the mild and approachable range in terms of overall typing experience. So whether you choose the Medium Tactile or the White Lotus switches, you can expect similar results in terms of comfort and usability.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-heavy switch with a balanced tactility and jelly-like sound signature, then the Durock Medium Tactile switch is the one for you. It offers a pronounced yet not overwhelming amount of tactility, making it suitable for those who prefer a medium tactile experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a delicate tactility that won't overwhelm you during long typing sessions, then the Durock White Lotus switch is the better choice. With its light actuation force and subtle resistance, it provides a gentle and low-impact typing feel that reduces finger fatigue. Additionally, the White Lotus switch offers the added bonus of vibrant RGB lighting effects, creating a mesmerizing glow for your keyboard setup. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and typing needs.