Durock Black Lotus vs. Outemu Milk Peach
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Milk Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Milk Peach mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, there are several key differences to consider. The Black Lotus is praised for its silky smooth feel and precise actuation, with reduced housing and stem wobble for a more enjoyable typing experience. With a 55g actuation weight that is substantial yet not too heavy, these switches are categorized as 'Silky', 'Buttery', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Milk Peach by Outemu does not have any standout features mentioned, and it falls under a different category. While both switches offer linear actuation, the Black Lotus seems to offer a more refined and premium typing experience. 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
N/A
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
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 Durock Black Lotus and Outemu Milk Peach switches both feature different housing materials for their top and bottom components. The Black Lotus utilizes a modified PC & UPE Blend for its top housing, providing a premium and unique feel, while the Milk Peach opts for polycarbonate, offering a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Milk Peach allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an element of customization to the switch. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both switches creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, with nylon being known for its ability to absorb sound and produce a duller, rounder sound.
While both switches have unique housing materials for their top and bottom components, they both share the characteristic of utilizing nylon for the bottom housing. This material choice gives both switches a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics. However, the differences between the top housing materials of modified PC & UPE Blend for the Black Lotus and polycarbonate for the Milk Peach result in distinct sound profiles. The Black Lotus offers a more premium feel, while the Milk Peach's polycarbonate top housing provides a crisper and higher-pitched sound profile.
The impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches can be felt in different ways. The bottom housing material, such as nylon, plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing material, whether it be modified PC & UPE Blend or polycarbonate, will have more influence on the sound when a key is released. It is through this careful selection of housing materials that the Durock Black Lotus and Outemu Milk Peach switches are able to achieve their unique 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 Milk Peach linear switch, it is evident that there are differences in weight that may cater to different preferences. The Black Lotus has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Peach offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, although the bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Milk Peach may be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Black Lotus may appeal to individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of common travel distances seen in mechanical keyboards, with the Black Lotus being on the longer side and the Milk Peach being a bit shorter. Gamers may prefer the Milk Peach for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more tactile feel may opt for the Black Lotus with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and 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 Milk Peach 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 providing a smooth and quiet typing experience, with a subtle sound profile that is not overly loud. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Milk Peach switch is not widely known. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors including the keyboard build and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the Black Lotus switch is praised for its silky smooth keystrokes, offering a refined and effortless typing sensation. The switch minimizes resistance during keypresses and releases, resulting in a comfortable typing experience. The Milk Peach switch's feel is not well-documented, but based on the information available, it may offer a mild and approachable typing experience.
Overall, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch stands out for its smooth and precise feel, reduced housing and stem wobble, and unique lighting features, making it a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch lacks detailed information on sound and feel, it may provide a gentle and pleasant typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference, with both switches potentially offering a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch, consider the characteristics that best align with your preferences. If you value a medium-heavy bottom out force, a silky smooth feel, and in-switch lighting, the Black Lotus may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with an unknown bottom out force and other unique features that cater to your specific typing needs, the Milk Peach could be a better fit. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences in terms of typing experience, sound, and overall feel. Take into account these factors when making your selection to ensure the best mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.
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