Durock T1 vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Durock T1 and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a satisfying tactile feel, the Durock T1 and the Durock White Lotus are two notable options worth considering. The T1 is known for its supremely comfortable typing experience, boasting a medium bump when pressed and a soothing rain-like sound. On the other hand, the White Lotus is designed with the discerning typist in mind, offering a delicate tactility that strikes a perfect balance for work and extended typing sessions. In addition to their tactile qualities, the White Lotus switches also feature a removable light column, allowing for vibrant RGB lighting effects that add a captivating glow to your keyboard setup. These general distinctions may help you decide which switch aligns with your preferences; however, let's delve deeper into their characteristics to ensure you make the best choice for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock T1 and the Durock White Lotus, one noticeable difference lies in their top housings. The T1 features a polycarbonate top housing, which gives it a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the White Lotus utilizes a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing. This unique blend creates a premium feel, though specific sound characteristics are not mentioned. Both housings, however, offer translucency that complements the use of RGB lighting. Therefore, while the T1 uses polycarbonate for its top housing, the White Lotus employs a modified blend, both resulting in housing options suitable for housing switches with RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housings, we find that both the T1 and the White Lotus utilize nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Thus, typing on either the T1 or the White Lotus with nylon bottom housing will offer similar sound characteristics. Both switches excel in producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the use of nylon in their bottom housings.
It is important to note that the interplay between the top and bottom housings affects the overall sound and feel of a switch. While the bottom housing primarily impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound when the key is released. This distinction means that the specific qualities of the T1's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing will have separate effects on the overall typing experience. Similarly, the White Lotus's modified blend top housing and nylon bottom housing will each contribute distinct elements to the switch's sound and feel. Therefore, although the materials used in the top and bottom housings may differ between the T1 and White Lotus, the overall sound and feel of the switches can still be comparable, albeit with slight variations.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock T1 tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, there are notable differences between the two. The T1's actuation force is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare to the White Lotus, which has an actuation force of 46 grams. However, both switches have different bottom out forces. The T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorized as medium-heavy, while the White Lotus has a bottom out force of 56 grams, which is considered medium-light.
Considering weight, the lighter option is often favored by individuals who value prolonged typing sessions or long gaming sessions. This lightweight characteristic is suitable for keyboards taken to work or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience may prefer a stronger push feel associated with switches having heavier forces.
In terms of actuation force, it is challenging to provide a direct comparison between the T1 and the White Lotus due to the unavailability of the T1's specific force. However, if the actuation forces were to be similar, users would be able to achieve comparable results in terms of keystroke triggering regardless of the switch they choose.
In conclusion, while the Durock T1 and Durock White Lotus switches differ in their bottom out forces, with the T1 being medium-heavy and the White Lotus being medium-light, the actuation force of the T1 is lacking specific information. Therefore, individuals who prioritize a heavier typing experience may lean towards the T1, while those seeking a lighter typing feel may opt for the White Lotus.
Travel distance
The Durock T1 tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and overall typing experience provided by both of these switches. Neither one is shorter or longer than the other when it comes to travel distance. So whether you choose the Durock T1 or the Durock White Lotus, you can rest assured that the travel distance will be consistent.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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, both the Durock T1 and the Durock White Lotus switches have similar qualities. Both switches are described as having a low-pitched sound profile, which means they produce a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Additionally, both switches are considered to have a neutral sound profile, meaning they have a moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile that suits a wide range of typing preferences. It should be noted that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, if you use the T1 or the White Lotus switches with the same board and keycaps, you can expect similar results in terms of sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Durock T1 is described as having a stepped and accented tactile feel. Stepped switches have a two-stage tactile feedback, providing a more mild and controlled typing experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Accented switches, on the other hand, offer a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy. The polished finish of the T1 switches also contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction.
In contrast, the Durock White Lotus switches are described as having an easy-to-press and mild tactile feel. Easy-to-press switches require minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable while reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The mild tactile characteristics of the White Lotus switches provide a gentle typing experience that is approachable for most users. Additionally, these switches have a subtle sound profile that is suitable for shared spaces.
To conclude, both the Durock T1 and the Durock White Lotus switches have appealing subjective qualities. In terms of sound, both switches have a low-pitched and neutral profile, ensuring a bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various environments. When it comes to feel, the T1 offers a stepped, accented, and polished experience, while the White Lotus provides an easy-to-press, mild, and subtle typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences and the desired typing experience. However, based on the available information, it is safe to say that both switches offer satisfying results in their respective qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a comfortable typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Durock T1 tactile switch is a great choice. It offers a medium bump when pressing down, providing a satisfying tactile feedback. Additionally, the sound of the T1 switch is low-pitched and neutral, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various environments. The T1 switch is described as stepped, accented, and polished, meaning it has a mild tactile feel with smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and desire a delicate tactility, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is the ideal option. With a bottom out force of 56 grams, it offers a lighter typing experience compared to the T1 switch. The White Lotus also features a removable light column, allowing for vibrant RGB lighting effects that can enhance your keyboard setup. The sound of the White Lotus switch is also low-pitched and neutral, making it suitable for shared spaces. It is described as easy-to-press, mild, and subtle, providing a low-impact and comfortable typing feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock T1 and White Lotus switches depends on your preferences for key resistance, sound, and typing feel. Consider whether you prefer a medium-heavy or medium-light bottom out force, a more pronounced or gentle tactile feel, and the level of sound resonance. Both switches offer their own unique advantages, so choose the one that best fits your typing style and preferences.
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