Durock Black Lotus vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus linear switch to the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is clear that they offer users distinct advantages depending on their preferences. The Black Lotus is favored for its silky smooth feel with unmatched precision, as well as reduced housing and stem wobble for an optimal typing experience. With a moderate 55g actuation weight and a unique light column feature, this switch is categorized as smooth, buttery, mild, polished. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch is known for its clicky feedback with no specific standout features mentioned. However, it meets the preferences of users who enjoy the audible click sound and tactile feedback of clicky switches. While these general descriptions can be helpful in choosing a switch, diving deeper into the specifics will allow you to make the best decision for your individual typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Blue switches feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile and feel. The Black Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend top housing provides a premium and unique feel, while the Blue's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The Black Lotus stands out for its use of a modified blend of materials, while the Blue leverages the stiffness of polycarbonate to enhance sound clarity. Both switches feature a clear housing, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both switches utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing of both the Black Lotus and the Blue switches reflects a preference for a more muted and rounded sound profile. While the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released, highlighting the importance of housing materials in overall switch performance.
While the Black Lotus and the Outemu Blue switches differ in their top housing materials, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, emphasizing the desire for a deeper and fuller sound profile. The unique blend of materials in the Black Lotus's top housing gives it a premium and distinct feel, while the Blue's polycarbonate top housing enhances sound clarity. Despite these differences, both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to their overall performance, making them suitable options for individuals seeking a specific sound profile and feel in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Outemu Blue clicky switch which has an actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Black Lotus requires 63.5 grams while the Blue switch does not specify a bottom out force. This makes the Black Lotus switch slightly heavier overall in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Outemu Blue switch might be more suitable, especially for longer typing sessions. On the other hand, the Durock Black Lotus switch provides a more substantial typing feel with its heavier forces, making it a better choice for those who enjoy a stronger push sensation while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these switches, both provide a satisfying typing experience with a consistent range of motion. With a travel distance of 4 mm, users can expect a similar tactile feel and keypress depth when using either switch. Whether you prefer the linear feel of the Durock Black Lotus or the clicky feedback of the Outemu Blue, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a consistent travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Black 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 Black Lotus for $4.57.
The Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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, the Durock Black Lotus is known for its relatively quiet operation, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch provides a distinct and satisfying click sound with each key press, appealing to enthusiasts who enjoy the audible feedback while typing. The sound produced by both switches will also be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard housing and keycap material used.
When it comes to feel, the Black Lotus switch is praised for its silky smooth actuation, offering a refined and effortless typing experience. With reduced wobble and a moderate 55g actuation weight, users can expect precise and comfortable key presses. On the other hand, the specific feel of the Outemu Blue switch is unknown, as no details are provided. However, clicky switches like the Outemu Blue typically offer a tactile bump and audible click during actuation, which can enhance the typing sensation for those who enjoy the feedback.
In conclusion, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch stands out for its smooth and precise feel, perfect for users seeking a high-end typing experience with minimal noise. In contrast, the Outemu Blue clicky switch is ideal for individuals who appreciate a clicky sound and tactile feedback while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing dynamics. If similar results are desired, selecting a switch with equivalent characteristics to the Black Lotus would ensure a comparable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you are looking for a smooth and precise typing experience with reduced wobble and a light column for in-switch lighting, the Black Lotus would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky typing experience with tactile feedback and audible clicks, the Outemu Blue switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to personal preference in terms of feel, sound, and functionality. It's important to consider what features are important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
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