Durock Black Lotus vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus, a linear switch, to the Outemu Dustproof Purple, a clicky switch, it's clear that both offer unique features for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Black Lotus is praised for its silky smooth feel and precision, with reduced wobble for a satisfying typing experience. With a 55g actuation weight that's substantial yet not too heavy, it caters to those who prefer a polished typing feel. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple doesn't have any standout features but offers a classic clicky switch experience. While both switches have their advantages, such as the in-switch lighting and removable light column of the Black Lotus, and the traditional clicky feel of the Dustproof Purple, it's important to delve deeper into the specifics to determine the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
55g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Dustproof Purple, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile and is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Black Lotus also has a UPE Blend in its top housing, providing a unique and premium feel that sets it apart from the Dustproof Purple. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate in the Dustproof Purple offers a visually appealing touch, while the Black Lotus's UPE Blend adds a luxurious element to the overall switch design.
On the other hand, both switches have a nylon bottom housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties. The nylon bottom housing in both the Black Lotus and the Dustproof Purple absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound effect. This shared bottom housing material ensures a consistent typing experience across both switches, highlighting the deep and full sound profile that nylon is known for. However, the slight differences in design and build may still result in nuanced variations in sound and feel between the two switches.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Dustproof Purple contributes to their unique sound profiles and typing experiences. While the Dustproof Purple focuses on the stiffness of polycarbonate for a clear and resonant sound, the Black Lotus offers a premium feel with its UPE Blend top housing. Despite these differences, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a similar deep and full sound profile for both switches. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the premium feel of a UPE Blend, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, both switches have an actuation force of 55 grams. However, the Black Lotus has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Dustproof Purple has a bottom out force of 65 grams. This makes the Dustproof Purple slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force. Both switches fall under the medium-heavy category in terms of force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Black Lotus for its slightly lighter bottom out force, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, users looking for a more substantial typing feel may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Dustproof Purple. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference based on typing style and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same level of travel before the switch actuates. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches. Whether you prefer the linear feel of the Black Lotus or the clicky feedback of the Dustproof Purple, the travel distance of 4 mm will remain consistent between the two switches.
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 Purple 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 is known for its quiet and smooth operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple's clicky nature provides a satisfying click sound with each key press, offering a more audible feedback for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Black Lotus is praised for its silky smooth keystrokes, offering a luxurious typing experience with minimal resistance. The switch is often described as buttery and polished, providing a refined and effortless typing sensation. In contrast, the feel of the Dustproof Purple is not specified, but as a clicky switch, it likely offers a tactile feedback with each key press.
Taking all the available information into consideration, it's evident that the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch offer distinct typing experiences. The Black Lotus excels in providing a smooth and precise keystroke with minimal wobble, making it a great choice for those who prioritize a refined typing feel. Meanwhile, the Dustproof Purple stands out for its clicky feedback, appealing to users who prefer a more audible typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, you should opt for the Black Lotus if you prioritize a silky smooth typing experience with reduced wobble and a comfortable 55g actuation weight. The unique light column feature also adds a touch of customization to your keyboard setup. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force and are not concerned about sound or additional features, the Dustproof Purple could be the better choice for you. Consider your preferences for feel, sound, and additional features to make the best decision for your typing needs.
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