Durock Black Lotus vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note their key differences. The Black Lotus is a linear switch known for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, with reduced housing and stem wobble for maximum typing pleasure. Its 55g actuation weight provides a substantial typing experience without feeling too heavy, and the unique light column offers in-switch lighting that is fully removable. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus is also a linear switch but lacks any specific standout features. While both switches offer a linear typing experience, the Black Lotus is favored for its overall smoothness and precision. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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 Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Lotus both feature nylon top housings, which offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the material. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches using nylon housings. However, the Durock Black Lotus also has a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, which provides a unique and premium feel that is not present in the Outemu Lotus. This blend of materials in the Durock switch may offer a different typing experience compared to the Outemu switch.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Lotus utilize nylon material. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel when bottoming out keys. The softness of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, so users can expect a consistent experience across both switches in this aspect.
Overall, the housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Lotus share similarities in their use of nylon for both top and bottom housings. This results in a typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile, characteristic of switches using nylon material. However, the Durock Black Lotus sets itself apart with its modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, offering a unique and premium feel that may appeal to users looking for a different typing experience. Both switches provide a high-quality typing experience, but the Durock Black Lotus may offer a slightly more premium feel with its blend of materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch differ significantly. The Black Lotus has a higher actuation force at 55 grams compared to the Lotus at 35 grams, making the Black Lotus require more force to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Black Lotus is 63.5 grams, indicating a heavier feel when fully pressed compared to the Lotus at 50 grams. This means that the Black Lotus provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, while the Lotus offers a lighter and easier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and desired weight of key presses.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Outemu Lotus has the shorter travel distance compared to the Durock Black Lotus. The 0.7 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall typing or gaming experience. The Black Lotus with its longer travel distance may provide a more traditional keypress feel with a bit more depth, while the Lotus with its shorter travel distance may offer quicker response times, making it preferred by gamers looking for speed and efficiency. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing style.
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 Lotus 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 providing a quiet and satisfying typing experience, with a muted and subtle sound profile that won't disturb those around you. The Outemu Lotus switch, on the other hand, has a sound profile that is not well-documented, so it is difficult to compare directly. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as your keyboard case and keycap material.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Black Lotus is praised for its silky smooth and buttery keystrokes, offering a typing experience that is both effortless and precise. The switch's 55g actuation weight strikes a balance between being substantial and comfortable for extended typing sessions. In comparison, the Outemu Lotus switch's feel is unknown, making it challenging to directly compare to the Black Lotus.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a smooth and precise typing experience, the Durock Black Lotus would be a solid choice, especially if you value a quiet sound profile and a comfortable actuation weight. However, if you are considering the Outemu Lotus switch, it is important to note that its subjective qualities such as sound and feel are less documented, making it harder to predict the exact typing experience you will get. Ultimately, both switches may provide similar results if you are looking for a linear switch, but the Durock Black Lotus comes with more clearly defined characteristics for those seeking a specific typing feel and sound.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, consider the amount of force you prefer when typing. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams and value the smooth feel and precision of a switch that reduces wobble for maximum typing pleasure, then the Black Lotus may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and prioritize a smoother typing experience with a unique light column feature, then the Lotus might be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking. Choose wisely to enhance your overall typing comfort and efficiency.
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