Durock Blue Lotus vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Blue Lotus, a tactile switch, to the KTT Miaowu, a linear switch, a distinct difference in typing experience becomes apparent. The Blue Lotus switches are praised for their tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, thanks to their reduced travel distance of 3.7mm. This makes them ideal for those who prefer a pronounced tactile feel while typing. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu switches offer a smoother keystroke action and enhanced stem stability, utilizing POK in their stem for a unique typing experience. The Miaowu switches are categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky', providing a different feel compared to the 'Accented', 'Bassy', 'Snappy', and 'Stepped' characteristics of the Blue Lotus switches. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Durock Blue Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, which provides a unique and premium feel to the switch. In contrast, the KTT Miaowu utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. While both materials offer a quality sound experience, the Blue Lotus's housing may offer a softer and more premium feel compared to the sharper sound profile of the Miaowu.
Both the Blue Lotus and Miaowu switches incorporate nylon as the bottom housing material, which enhances the sound profile by creating a deeper and fuller typing experience. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This characteristic makes typing on switches with nylon bottom housings more satisfying and comfortable, providing a unique tactile experience for users of both switches.
In terms of overall sound profile and typing experience, the Durock Blue Lotus and KTT Miaowu offer comparable results due to both utilizing nylon for the bottom housing material. However, the difference in top housing materials sets them apart, with the Blue Lotus's modified PC and UPE Blend providing a softer and premium feel, while the Miaowu's polycarbonate lends a sharper and crisper sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding the feel and sound profile desired.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, there is a clear distinction in weight. The Blue Lotus has a medium-heavy actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Miaowu features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a more effortless option for typing. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Miaowu switch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more pronounced keystroke may lean towards the Blue Lotus for a heavier push feel. Ultimately, the weight of the actuation and bottom out forces plays a significant role in determining the typing experience and preference for keyboard enthusiasts.
Travel distance
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, slightly longer than the KTT Miaowu linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum when it comes to travel distances, making them ideal for those who prefer faster response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distances offered by both switches. However, the difference between the two is minimal, so if you were to use either switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two would come down to personal preference in terms of tactile feedback and actuation force.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Blue 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 Blue Lotus for $4.57.
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 Durock Blue Lotus switch offers a bassy profile that provides a deeper and richer sound during key presses, giving a satisfying auditory experience to the user. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu switch produces a clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and percussive, adding a crisp and bright aspect to the typing experience. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a deeper bassy sound with the Blue Lotus or a sharp clacky sound with the Miaowu.
In terms of feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switch is accented, snappy, and stepped, providing a medium tactile experience that is both responsive and distinct without being overwhelming. The Miaowu switch, in contrast, offers a bouncy sensation that gives a spring-like feedback, making the keys feel lively and providing a rebound effect when pressed. Users looking for a more pronounced tactile feel may prefer the Blue Lotus, while those seeking a more elastic and lively typing experience may opt for the Miaowu.
Overall, the Durock Blue Lotus and KTT Miaowu switches both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Blue Lotus excels in tactile intensity, snappiness, and distinct feeling with a bassy sound profile, while the Miaowu focuses on smoother keystroke action, stem stability, and a bouncy feel with a clacky sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to individual preference in terms of both sound and feel, ensuring that users can achieve a satisfying typing experience tailored to their liking.
Conclusion
In closing, it is clear that both the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch have unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. If you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a marked tactile feel and snappy responsiveness, then the Durock Blue Lotus would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light linear switch with enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, then the KTT Miaowu would be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for tactile intensity, keypress sound, and overall typing experience.
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