KTT Purple Star vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Star and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Purple Star and Durock White Lotus both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Purple Star is a linear switch known for its buttery smooth typing experience and light 45g bottom-out, making it a great choice for light typists seeking comfort and ease. On the other hand, the White Lotus is a tactile switch designed for discerning typists, offering a delicate tactility perfect for work and extended typing sessions. Additionally, the White Lotus features a removable light column for vibrant RGB lighting effects, adding a touch of elegance to your keyboard setup. While the Purple Star is perfect for those looking for a smooth and neutral typing experience, the White Lotus caters to users who appreciate a subtle tactile feedback and customizable lighting. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Purple Star and Durock White Lotus switches both offer unique sound profiles, with the Purple Star featuring POM housings for both the top and bottom. POM housings create a deeper and more muted sound, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the White Lotus utilizes a modified PC & UPE Blend for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The UPE Blend top housing gives the switch a premium feel, while the nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile.
In terms of sound, the POM housing of the Purple Star and the nylon bottom housing of the White Lotus both contribute to a deeper and more muted sound profile. However, the White Lotus's UPE Blend top housing provides a unique and premium feel that sets it apart from the Purple Star. The combination of these different housing materials results in switches that offer a mix of satisfying sound and premium tactile feedback.
Overall, while the housing materials of the KTT Purple Star and Durock White Lotus switches may differ in terms of top and bottom housing composition, they both aim to provide a unique and pleasing typing experience. The POM and nylon materials each have their own qualities that enhance the sound profile of the switches, creating a deeper and fuller sound. Whether you choose the Purple Star or White Lotus, you can expect a high-quality typing experience that is both satisfying and premium.
Weight
The actuation force of the KTT Purple Star linear switch is 43 grams, while the actuation force of the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is slightly higher at 46 grams. Both switches have a relatively light actuation force, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Purple Star requires 50 grams of force compared to the White Lotus's 56 grams. This means that the White Lotus has a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the White Lotus may be more suitable for users who prefer a slightly heavier keypress.
Travel distance
The KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Purple Star offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for fast and precise keystrokes. On the other hand, the White Lotus provides a bit more depth and feedback with its longer travel distance, catering to those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke feel. Both switches offer different characteristics in terms of travel distance, so choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming 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 Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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
When it comes to sound, both the KTT Purple Star and Durock White Lotus switches have a low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The White Lotus also brings in a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and users. However, the ultimate sound experience will also depend on factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Purple Star and White Lotus switches provide an easy-to-press typing experience with gentle resistance during key presses. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, both switches offer a mild and subtle typing experience, striking a balance between comfort and tactile feedback. The typing feel of these switches is gentle and approachable to most users, making them suitable for a wide range of typing preferences.
In conclusion, both the KTT Purple Star and Durock White Lotus switches offer a pleasant typing experience with low-pitched sound profiles and easy-to-press tactile feedback. While the Purple Star is known for its buttery smooth typing feel and light actuation force, the White Lotus stands out with its delicate tactility and vibrant RGB lighting effects. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and aesthetics. Nevertheless, users can expect a similar level of typing comfort and ease with either switch option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you value a buttery smooth typing experience with light actuation force and a neutral sound signature, the Purple Star may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a delicate tactile feedback that is not overwhelming, along with the option for vibrant RGB lighting effects, the White Lotus switch is a great option to consider. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and design features that suit your typing style and preferences.
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