Durock Black Lotus vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Black Lotus, a linear switch, and the Outemu Dustproof Brown, a tactile switch, there are key differences to understand in order to make an informed decision. The Black Lotus stands out for its silky smooth feel and unmatched precision, boasting reduced housing and stem wobble for a more enjoyable typing experience. With a 55g actuation weight that strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, and a unique light column for in-switch lighting that is fully removable, the Black Lotus is a popular choice for those seeking a polished and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown lacks specific standout features but is known for its tactile feedback, making it a preferred choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced key press. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Dustproof Brown, it is evident that both switches utilize a combination of different materials to achieve their unique sound profiles. While the Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, which provides a premium and unique feel, the Dustproof Brown employs a polycarbonate top housing to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Both materials offer distinct advantages in terms of sound quality, with the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Brown being particularly useful for enhancing RGB lighting effects due to its translucency.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon bottom housing of each switch absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that adds to the overall typing experience. Despite their differences in top housing materials, the similarity in using nylon for the bottom housing ensures that both the Black Lotus and the Dustproof Brown offer a satisfying typing sound that is characterized by its depth and resonance.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches like the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Dustproof Brown highlights the importance of balancing different properties to achieve the desired sound profile. While the Black Lotus combines a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing with a nylon bottom housing for a premium feel and deep sound, the Dustproof Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing to create a sharper sound profile with enhanced RGB lighting capabilities. Both switches demonstrate how the selection of housing materials can significantly impact the typing experience, whether through the feel of the switch or the quality of the sound produced.
Weight
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch which has an actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Black Lotus at 63.5 grams and the Dustproof Brown at 65 grams, both falling under the category of medium-heavy. The difference in actuation force means that the Black Lotus may require slightly more force to register a keystroke compared to the Dustproof Brown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Dustproof Brown, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Black Lotus. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distances, it is evident that both switches offer similar tactile feedback and actuation points despite the different switch types. Users can expect a consistent typing experience with either switch, as they both provide a smooth keystroke with a relatively short travel distance. Overall, the travel distance of both switches contributes to a comfortable typing experience, allowing users to type effortlessly and efficiently.
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 Brown 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 known for its smooth and muted sound profile, making it a quiet option for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch is known to have a soft and tactile sound when typing, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each key press. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as keyboard case material and keycap material, so individual experiences may vary.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Black Lotus linear switch is praised for its silky and buttery typing feel, offering a smooth and effortless keystroke experience. With reduced housing and stem wobble, the Black Lotus switch provides a stable and consistent typing sensation. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch's tactile bump provides a more pronounced feedback during typing, enhancing the overall typing experience with a gentle yet satisfying feel.
Overall, when considering the subjective qualities of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, it is clear that both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Black Lotus excels in providing a smooth and stable typing experience with a quiet sound profile, while the Dustproof Brown offers a tactile bump for those seeking a more tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force that offers a silky smooth typing experience with unparalleled precision, reduced wobble, and in-switch lighting capabilities, then the Durock Black Lotus linear switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a similar bottom out force but with a tactile feedback and are not concerned with additional features like in-switch lighting, then the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to whether you prioritize smooth linear action or tactile feedback in your typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
