Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Durock White Lotus both present compelling options for tactile switch enthusiasts, but they cater to distinct preferences. The Cherry MX Purple is celebrated for its refined tactile feedback, featuring a medium-strength bump that offers a satisfying yet controllable typing experience, making it a great choice for users who seek precision without sacrificing comfort. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus is designed with the discerning typist in mind, boasting a gentle tactility that ensures an enjoyable typing experience, particularly during long work sessions. With its easy-to-press action and vibrant RGB illumination, the White Lotus can add a touch of aesthetic flair to your setup while keeping distractions to a minimum. Both switches have their unique strengths: the Cherry MX Purple excels in tactile feedback for a pronounced feel, while the White Lotus emphasizes subtlety and ease of use. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on which switch fits your typing style and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Nylon
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Durock White Lotus switches, it is important to note the differences presented in their top housings. The Cherry MX Purple RGB features a nylon top housing, which is recognized for contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer texture. This characteristic allows nylon to absorb more sound than harder plastic materials, resulting in a more muted and rounded auditory experience with each keystroke. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus is equipped with a modified blend of polycarbonate (PC) and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UPE) for its top housing. This unique combination offers a premium feel that may lend itself to a different sound signature compared to the softer feel of nylon, potentially resulting in a sharper and more resonant sound during key releases.
The bottom housings of these switches present a more unified comparison, as both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Durock White Lotus utilize nylon for this component. The nylon bottom housing across both switches plays a crucial role in producing a deeper and more defined typing sound and experience. Given the similar materials used for the bottom housing, users can expect a consistent auditory feedback and tactile sensation, regardless of the switch they choose. This consistency in bottom housing creates a common ground in how the switches perform during continual typing, emphasizing a fuller sound profile attributed to the properties of nylon.
In summary, while the top housing materials show a clear divergence between the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Durock White Lotus—with nylon providing a softer experience versus the modified PC and UPE blend offering a more premium feel—the bottom housings mirror each other in their use of nylon, contributing to a shared sound quality. Consequently, users looking for similar auditory responses can anticipate a harmonious performance from the two switches during use, especially in terms of sound produced by the bottom housing. However, the unique characteristics of the distinct top housings will ultimately determine the overall experience, providing enthusiasts with varying choices tailored for their personal preferences in tactile and auditory feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, there are notable differences. The MX Purple RGB features an actuation force of 45 grams, while the White Lotus requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 46 grams. This minor difference indicates that both switches are relatively light, but the MX Purple RGB is marginally easier to press down, making it potentially more suitable for long typing sessions without fatigue. In terms of bottom out force, the White Lotus has a measured bottom out force of 56 grams, while the bottom out force for the MX Purple RGB is unspecified. This absence of data means we can't compare the bottom out forces directly, but it is safe to state that the White Lotus will present a more substantial resistance if pressed fully down. Overall, for users who prefer a lighter switch for comfort in extended use, the Cherry MX Purple RGB is the better choice, while those seeking a more pronounced tactile and audible feedback with a heavier feel could opt for the Durock White Lotus.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is the same, with each boasting a travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable tactile experience when pressing down on keys featuring either switch. Since both switches exhibit identical travel distances, they will deliver similar results in terms of keypress feedback and responsiveness, making them suitable options for users who prioritize tactile sensations in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 Cherry MX Purple RGB switches offer a refined audio experience that is generally well-balanced but specific attributes are not explicitly mentioned. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus switches are characterized by a low-pitched sound, which presents a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Additionally, their neutral sound profile enhances their versatility, making them suitable for various environments, whether at home or in an office setting. While the sound of both switches can be influenced by factors like board construction and keycap material, the White Lotus leans towards a more soothing auditory experience, perfect for those who prefer quieter environments.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB presents a refined tactile experience with a medium-strength bump, offering a comfort level that appeals to both casual typists and keyboard enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the Durock White Lotus switches prioritize a gentle and effortless typing experience characterized by an easy-to-press action. Their mild and subtle tactile feedback ensures that even extensive typing sessions remain fatigue-free. Both switches aim to provide a responsive typing feel, but the White Lotus may cater more specifically to those seeking a lighter touch and a gentler tactile response, making it an attractive option for prolonged use.
In summary, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Durock White Lotus switches each boast their own strengths, they cater to slightly different preferences in sound and feel. The MX Purple RGB is more about a refined tactile experience with a balanced sound profile for a versatile typing experience, whereas the White Lotus excels with its gentle, easy actuation and low-pitched sound that enhances a tranquil typing atmosphere. Depending on your specific needs—whether you seek more pronounced tactility or a softer touch—both switches can result in a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different nuances.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Cherry MX Purple RGB and Durock White Lotus tactile switches, your choice ultimately hinges on your typing style and the specific environment in which you’ll be using them. If you prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback combined with a robust build, the Cherry MX Purple RGB is an excellent choice, especially if you enjoy a responsive feel that enhances your typing experience. This switch is well-suited for fast typists and gamers alike, providing a short yet defined bump that can contribute to your overall performance. On the other hand, if you're looking for a smoother, quieter typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue during those long working hours, the Durock White Lotus will cater to your needs. Its low-pitched sound profile and easy-to-press action make it ideal for both office settings and home use, striking a perfect balance between comfort and functionality without overwhelming your senses. Ultimately, the choice comes down to whether you value pronounced tactile feedback or a gentler, yet still delightful, typing experience—both of which offer their unique benefits to enhance your keyboard journey.
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