Durock Black Lotus vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Spring Breeze are two options that cater to different preferences. The Black Lotus is a linear switch that offers a silky smooth feel and precise typing experience, with reduced housing and stem wobble for maximum satisfaction. With a 55g actuation weight that is substantial yet not too heavy, it provides a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze is a clicky switch with no specific standout features mentioned. The choice between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference - whether you prefer the smoothness and precision of the Black Lotus or the clicky feedback of the Spring Breeze. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
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 housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches offer unique characteristics that set them apart. The Black Lotus features a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, giving it a premium and distinctive feel. In contrast, the Spring Breeze utilizes a nylon top housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties. While both switches have different top housing materials, they both aim to enhance the typing experience by providing a unique sound and feel.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Black Lotus incorporates a nylon bottom housing, similar to the Spring Breeze. This material choice contributes to a deeper and rounder sound profile during key presses, creating a more subdued and satisfying typing experience. By using nylon for the bottom housing, both switches aim to absorb sound effectively and provide a cushioned feel when bottoming out. Despite differences in their top housing materials, the similarities in their bottom housing choice suggest a shared goal of enhancing the overall typing experience for users.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches showcases a diversity in sound profiles and typing feels. While the Black Lotus leans towards a premium and unique feel with its modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, the Spring Breeze focuses on creating a deeper and fuller sound profile with its nylon top housing. Both switches share a common ground in utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, aiming to enhance sound absorption and provide a more satisfying typing experience. Whether it's the unique feel of the Black Lotus or the deep sound profile of the Spring Breeze, both switches offer distinct qualities that can cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch are different in weight. The Black Lotus is heavier, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Spring Breeze is lighter, with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, offering a medium-light feel. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer sessions, the Spring Breeze would be the ideal choice. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Black Lotus would be more suitable. Both switches provide similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, depending on individual preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equally matched in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, users can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you opt for the Black Lotus or the Spring Breeze, you can anticipate a consistent and familiar feel when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the travel distance of these switches adds to the overall typing experience and can influence the typing speed and comfort of the user.
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 Spring Breeze 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 quiet operation, providing a satisfying typing experience without any distracting noise. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch is known for its crisp and audible click with each key press, offering a more tactile and auditory typing feedback. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Black Lotus linear switch is often described as silky and buttery, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. The switch offers a mild actuation force, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the switches are polished for optimal performance, resulting in a refined and sleek keypress. In contrast, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch's feel is unknown at this time, but clicky switches typically offer a more tactile and springy typing experience compared to linear switches.
Overall, if you prefer a quiet and smooth typing experience, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch would be an excellent choice. However, if you enjoy a more tactile feedback with audible clicks, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch might be more suitable for you. Both switches have their own unique qualities, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the kind of typing experience you're seeking.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a smooth and precise typing feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Black Lotus may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy the audible feedback of clicky switches, the Spring Breeze could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you prefer, whether it's the smoothness of linear switches or the clicky feedback of tactile switches. Make sure to test out both options to see which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
