KTT Rose vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the KTT Rose 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 to consider are the KTT Rose and the Durock White Lotus. The Rose switches are known for their beautiful design and offer a unique typing experience with the use of progressive springs. Typing on these switches feels substantial yet not heavy, reminiscent of bassy raindrops. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished, the Rose switches provide a satisfying tactile feedback. On the other hand, the White Lotus switches are designed with the discerning typist in mind. These switches offer a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance, making them ideal for work and extended typing sessions. With a removable light column, the White Lotus switches allow for vibrant and luminous RGB lighting effects, enhancing the visual appeal of your keyboard setup. Categorized as easy-to-press, low-pitched, mild, neutral, and subtle, the White Lotus switches offer a tranquil typing experience. 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
N/A
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Progressive spring
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Rose and the Durock White Lotus differ in their composition, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Rose utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which enhances the sound characteristics of the switch. Its stiffer plastic creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for the utilization of RGB lighting, making it visually appealing. On the other hand, the White Lotus features a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, providing a unique and premium feel. While no specific sound characteristics are mentioned, it can be inferred that this blend offers a different auditory experience compared to polycarbonate.
Both switches share a commonality in their choice of nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is a classic housing material known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Consequently, both the Rose and the White Lotus benefit from the use of nylon in their bottom housings. In terms of sound, users can expect a similar experience from the two switches, with a deeper and more resonant typing sound.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are distributed differently between the top and bottom housings in a switch. The bottom housing contributes more significantly to the sound and feel when the key is pressed, affecting the bottom-out sound. The nylon bottom housing of both the Rose and the White Lotus will play a major role in the typing experience, producing a deep and satisfying sound when keys are pressed down. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the polycarbonate top housing of the Rose and the modified PC & UPE Blend top housing of the White Lotus will affect the sound when keys are let go, providing a distinct auditory feedback upon release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Rose linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it becomes evident that they offer different experiences. The actuation force of the Rose switch is unknown, while the White Lotus requires 46 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. This means that the White Lotus has a lighter actuation force compared to the Rose switch. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Rose switch requires 63.5 grams of force, making it medium-heavy, whereas the White Lotus requires 56 grams, making it medium-light.
Considerations of weight are crucial, as they can greatly impact one's typing experience. For individuals who prefer a lighter feel, allowing them to type for extended periods, the White Lotus would be a suitable choice. This light actuation force would be beneficial for those using the keyboard at work or engaging in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more pronounced and substantial typing experience may prefer the Rose switch. The heavier bottom out force of the Rose switch provides a stronger push feel when typing.
Although the actuation forces of the switches are different, both can offer a similar experience when it comes to bottoming out. As the actuation force of the Rose switch is unknown, it is possible that it could align with the 46-gram actuation force of the White Lotus switch. In this scenario, both switches would provide a medium-light actuation force and differentiate only in terms of bottom out force. However, without specific information regarding the actuation force of the Rose switch, it is difficult to draw a direct comparison between the two switches in this aspect.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Rose linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, both switches will travel a distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance you feel when using either switch.
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 Rose comes in at $3.01 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 Rose linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch have similar low-pitched profiles. Low-pitched switches typically produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, both switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, meaning they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a balanced sound. This makes them suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or an advanced typist, and whether you plan to use them at home or in a work environment. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Rose linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. A mild switch provides a gentle typing experience without pronounced characteristics, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, a polished switch indicates a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is described as easy-to-press, providing gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The White Lotus switch also has a mild and subtle tactile feel, offering a gentle resistance without being too feather-light. Moreover, its sound signature is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces.
In conclusion, both the KTT Rose linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offer desirable qualities in terms of sound and feel. While their sound profiles are similar, with a low-pitched and neutral characteristic, their tactile feel differs slightly. The Rose switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, while the White Lotus switch offers an easy-to-press and low-impact feel. Both switches can deliver satisfying results, depending on the user's personal preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a substantial, yet not heavy, typing experience, then the KTT Rose linear switch is the one for you. Its progressive springs provide a unique and satisfying typing experience, reminiscent of bassy raindrops. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter tactile switch that strikes the perfect balance between tactility and comfort, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is the ideal choice. With its delicate tactility and removable light column, it offers a tranquil typing experience while adding a captivating glow to your keyboard setup.
Both switches have a low-pitched sound profile and a neutral actuation force requirement, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. However, the Rose switch is described as having a mild and polished feel, offering a more gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the White Lotus switch is known for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and enhancing the typing experience with its low-impact feel. Additionally, the White Lotus switch is also described as mild and subtle, making it suitable for shared spaces.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Rose linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch depends on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile. Consider the weight and feel you desire, as well as the level of tactility and lighting effects that you prioritize in your keyboard setup. With these considerations in mind, you can make an informed decision on which switch best suits your needs and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
