KTT Purple Click vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Click and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the KTT Purple Click and the Durock White Lotus. The Purple Click switch is known for its satisfying, high-pitched click, offering a balanced blend of light keystrokes and pronounced tactility. On the other hand, the White Lotus switch is designed for discerning typists, providing a delicate and light tactile feel that is ideal for extended typing sessions. Additionally, it features a removable light column, allowing for dazzling RGB lighting effects to enhance your keyboard setup. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Purple Click and the Durock White Lotus differ in their compositions. The Purple Click utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, creating a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the White Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, providing a unique and premium feel. While both housings contribute to sound, the polycarbonate of the Purple Click emphasizes a clearer sound, while the modified PC and UPE Blend of the White Lotus offers a distinct tactile experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches rely on nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both the Purple Click and the White Lotus benefit from the sound-absorbing qualities of nylon, adding to the overall acoustic experience of the switches.
Overall, the contrasting housing materials of the KTT Purple Click and the Durock White Lotus contribute to their unique sound profiles and tactile experiences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Purple Click emphasizes a sharper and crisper sound, while the modified PC and UPE Blend top housing of the White Lotus provides a premium feel. Additionally, both switches share the deep and full sound profile created by their nylon bottom housings. So, while the top and bottom housing materials differ, users can expect similar results in terms of the immersive sound experience offered by these switches.
Weight
The KTT Purple Click clicky switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch have slightly different actuation and bottom out forces. The Purple Click has an actuation force of 40 grams, while the White Lotus has an actuation force of 46 grams. This means that the White Lotus requires slightly more force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Purple Click. However, both switches fall under the category of medium-light actuation force.
In terms of bottom out force, the Purple Click has a force of 55 grams, while the White Lotus has a force of 56 grams. Here, the difference between the two switches is minimal, with the White Lotus being slightly heavier. This indicates that both switches provide a similar level of resistance when fully pressed down.
When considering weight, some individuals may prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for extended periods without experiencing fatigue. This is particularly beneficial for keyboards used in work environments or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are users who prefer a more substantial typing experience and enjoy the sensation of a stronger push. For them, switches with heavier forces are more suitable.
Overall, the Purple Click is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the White Lotus, while the two switches have a similar bottom out force. Therefore, those seeking a lighter keystroke experience may prefer the Purple Click, while those who enjoy a slightly stronger push may lean towards the White Lotus.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Purple Click clicky switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. Both switches provide a consistent and satisfying tactile feedback during typing, ensuring a pleasant typing experience. So, whether you opt for the KTT Purple Click or the Durock White Lotus, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
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 KTT Purple Click switch is best described as crunchy and resonant. The crunchy sound of these clicky switches is often associated with stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves, providing a satisfying and tactile auditory experience. Additionally, the Purple Click switch produces a clean and sharp sound profile with a higher-pitched tone, immersing the user in an auditory sensation. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. The low-pitched tone provides a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. Being neutral, the White Lotus switch offers a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, and whether you plan to use it 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 chosen.
As for the feel, the KTT Purple Click switch offers an invigorating and stepped typing experience. With pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force, these switches provide a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. The stepped characteristic of the Purple Click switch means that it has a two-stage feel, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switch offers an easy-to-press and mild typing experience. With gentle resistance during key presses and a light actuation force requirement, these switches require minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. The low-impact typing feel of the White Lotus switch reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, while still offering a responsive typing experience. The White Lotus switch can be described as subtle, providing a gentle resistance that maintains a light typing feel. Additionally, the sound signature of these switches is not resonant, making them suitable for shared spaces.
In conclusion, the KTT Purple Click switch is best known for its high-pitched and satisfying click sound, along with an invigorating and stepped feel during typing. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, as well as an easy-to-press and mild typing experience. Both switches strike a balance between tactile feedback and actuation force, providing a pleasant typing experience without overwhelming the user. Keep in mind that the choice of board and keycaps can influence the sound of the switch. If you are looking for a similar result in terms of sound and feel, either switch would be a suitable choice depending on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering which switch to choose between the KTT Purple Click clicky switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your individual preferences and needs.
If you are someone who enjoys a satisfyingly high-pitched click with a light keystroke, the Purple Click switch is the way to go. It strikes a perfect balance between lightness and tactility, offering an invigorating and reactive typing sensation. Additionally, if you appreciate a crunchy and resonant sound profile, the Purple Click switch will provide an immersive auditory experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a delicate tactility and gentle resistance, the White Lotus switch is the better choice. It offers a tranquil typing experience without overwhelming the user, making it ideal for long work or typing sessions. The White Lotus switch also features a low-pitched sound profile, adding a mellow and bass-heavy tone to your typing experience.
Overall, both switches have their own unique characteristics and advantages. Consider your typing style, preferences for sound and feel, as well as any specific requirements you may have for your keyboard setup. By doing so, you will be able to make an informed decision and choose the switch that best suits your needs.