Durock Black Lotus vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, it is clear that each offers a unique typing experience. The Black Lotus is renowned for its silky smooth feel and precise actuation, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a buttery typing sensation with minimal wobble. With a 55g actuation weight, it strikes a balance between being substantial and comfortable for long typing sessions. Additionally, the in-switch lighting provided by the unique light column adds a touch of customization. On the other hand, the Outemu Green switch is known for its satisfying click sound with each press, perfect for those who prefer auditory feedback while typing. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Standard
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 used in the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Green switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, which offers a unique and premium feel, while the Green switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which is a classic material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the choice of housing material plays a significant role in the overall look and feel of a switch. The Black Lotus's modified PC and UPE Blend top housing provides a premium and unique appearance, while the Green switch's polycarbonate top housing is more likely to be used for switches featuring clear housings, making them ideal for RGB lighting. The nylon bottom housing, shared by both switches, contributes to a classic and timeless look while also enhancing the sound profile of the switches by creating a deeper and fuller typing experience.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall performance of the switches, it is evident that each material brings its own unique qualities to the typing experience. The bottom housing, whether it be nylon for the Black Lotus or Green switch, has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the top housing, such as the modified PC and UPE Blend for the Black Lotus or the polycarbonate for the Green switch, significantly influences the sound profile when releasing a key. By combining different housing materials, manufacturers can tailor the typing experience to meet the preferences of users seeking specific sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, it is evident that the Black Lotus is the lighter option of the two. The actuation force of the Black Lotus is 55 grams, while the Outemu Green requires 65 grams to actuate. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Black Lotus is 63.5 grams, lighter than the 80 grams needed for the Outemu Green. This means that the Black Lotus provides a slightly lighter typing experience compared to the Outemu Green. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming may find the Black Lotus to be more suitable, while those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Outemu Green. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of each switch contribute to a different typing experience, catering to the preferences of different users.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that they both require the same amount of force to press down and have a similar feel when typing. However, the Black Lotus linear switch is known for its smooth key travel, providing a consistent and quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch is praised for its tactile bump and audible click sound, which can provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy the feedback. While both switches have the same travel distance, the Black Lotus linear switch offers a smoother typing experience, while the Outemu Green clicky switch provides a more tactile and audible typing experience.
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 Green 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 switch is known for its quiet and smooth actuation, perfect for office environments or late-night typing sessions where a quieter keyboard is preferred. On the other hand, the Outemu Green switch is characterized by its loud and satisfying click with each key press, making it a favorite among users who enjoy the auditory feedback while typing.
When it comes to feel, the Black Lotus switch is renowned for its silky and buttery typing experience, providing a smooth and effortless keystroke that minimizes resistance. The switch offers a polished finish, resulting in a refined and sleek typing sensation. In contrast, the Outemu Green switch's feel is not specified in the provided information, but given that it is a clicky switch, it is expected to have a tactile click feedback along with a more resistant keypress compared to linear switches like the Black Lotus.
Taking all the available information into account, it is evident that the Black Lotus linear switch offers a quiet and smooth typing experience with a light actuation force, making it ideal for users who prioritize a seamless and effortless keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch provides a loud and tactile feedback with each key press, suitable for those who enjoy the audible click sound and a more pronounced tactile response. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a silky smooth typing experience with reduced wobble, the Black Lotus is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and the satisfying clicky sound of a Green switch, then the Outemu Green may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal preference for typing feel and sound.
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