Durock Black Lotus vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Dustproof Black mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer a different typing experience. The Black Lotus stands out with its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, thanks to reduced housing and stem wobble for maximum typing pleasure. With a 55g actuation weight that is substantial but not too hefty, it provides a polished and buttery typing experience. Additionally, the unique light column offers in-switch lighting that is fully removable. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black switch, while lacking standout features, provides a solid linear typing experience. It is a more straightforward option without any specific standout characteristics. 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
55g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
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
The housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Black Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend top housing provides a premium feel and potentially a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Dustproof Black's polycarbonate top housing. While the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Black creates a clear and resonant sound, the modified PC & UPE Blend top housing of the Black Lotus may offer a unique touch to the typing experience with its premium feel.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Black Lotus and the Dustproof Black switches feature nylon as their material of choice. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This means that regardless of the specific switch, users can expect a similar typing experience when it comes to the sound and feel generated by the nylon bottom housing. Whether it's the Black Lotus or the Dustproof Black, the nylon bottom housing will contribute to a duller and rounder sound, providing a consistent typing experience in that aspect.
Overall, the combination of housing materials in a switch plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. While the top housing may affect the sound when letting go of a key, the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel. The use of different materials like modified PC & UPE Blend, polycarbonate, and nylon in the Black Lotus and Dustproof Black switches allows users to tailor their typing experience based on their preferences for sound profile and feel. Whether one prefers a premium feel and potentially sharper sound, or a deeper and fuller sound, both switches offer unique qualities that can cater to a variety of typing preferences.
Weight
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, which requires 60 grams. This means that the Black Lotus will register a keystroke with less pressure. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Black Lotus requires 63.5 grams, which is lighter than the Dustproof Black's 80 grams. The Dustproof Black switch is heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience or need to type for long periods of time without fatigue, the Black Lotus may be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and desired level of resistance. If both switches had the same actuation force and bottom out force, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of pressure needed for keystrokes and bottoming out.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of key press feel and responsiveness. With both switches offering the same travel distance, users can expect a uniform typing experience regardless of which switch they choose.
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 Dustproof Black 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 Black Lotus linear switch is typically described as having a smooth and consistent typing sound due to its unique light column feature which provides in-switch lighting. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch's sound quality is not specified in the provided information. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Black Lotus linear switch is known for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision. This switch offers a typing experience that is smooth and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch's feel is not explicitly described.
Overall, based on the available information, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch appears to offer a unique typing experience with its smooth feel, precise actuation of 55g, and in-switch lighting feature. While the qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch are not fully detailed, it is important to consider personal preference and typing style when choosing between mechanical keyboard switches. Ultimately, both switches may provide a satisfying typing experience, but individual preferences will play a significant role in deciding which one is the best fit for you.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, along with a silky smooth feel and precise typing experience, then the Black Lotus would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch with a bottom out force of 80 grams, and are not too concerned about additional features, then the Dustproof Black might be the better option for you. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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