Durock Black Lotus vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Phoenix. The Black Lotus is a linear switch that is best known for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision. It offers reduced housing and stem wobble, which translates to maximum typing pleasure. With a 55g actuation weight, it provides a substantial, yet not too hefty, tactile experience. Additionally, the Black Lotus stands out with its unique light column for in-switch lighting that is fully removable. On the other hand, the Phoenix is a clicky switch that boasts a distinct under-skirt click mechanism, making it one of the most unique clicky switches available today. It offers a crystalline and sparkling type feel and sound profile, adding a delightful auditory element to your typing experience. The Phoenix switch is categorized as 'Crunchy' and 'Polished'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can best decide on the perfect switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Phoenix differ in terms of their top and bottom housings. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE blend for its top housing, which creates a unique and premium feel. This material choice allows for a satisfying typing experience and is especially useful if you plan to use RGB lighting. In contrast, the Phoenix utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucent nature of polycarbonate works well for showcasing RGB lighting options.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Black Lotus incorporates a nylon material. This classic switch housing material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, contributing to a typing experience with a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Phoenix features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance in sound production.
While the housing materials differ between the Black Lotus and the Phoenix, the impact and feel of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down a key, the bottom housing of each switch will have a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a more notable impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience due to the combination of their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is clear that the Black Lotus is the heavier option. The Black Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams, which means that a moderate amount of pressure is required to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Phoenix is unknown, so a direct comparison cannot be made in this aspect. In terms of bottom out force, the Black Lotus requires a heavier force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Meanwhile, the Phoenix has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is slightly lighter yet still classified as medium. Therefore, those seeking a lighter switch for extended typing periods may find the Phoenix to be a suitable option. However, it's important to note that both switches offer similar results in terms of bottoming out. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, which is considered a more traditional and deeper travel distance. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers who prioritize quick response times. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to feel more abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference - those who prefer a more responsive key press may opt for the Black Lotus with its longer travel distance, while individuals who prefer a shallower press may find the Phoenix more suitable. In either case, both switches offer distinct travel distances that cater to different user preferences.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 being quiet and lacking any specific descriptor. The exact sound produced by the switch will also depend on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch is described as having a "crunchy" sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. This unique click mechanism sets the Phoenix apart from other clicky switches available today.
When it comes to feel, the Black Lotus switch is described as having several qualities. It is referred to as "silky," indicating an exceptionally smooth typing experience. This switch minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. It is also described as "buttery," further emphasizing the smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Additionally, the Black Lotus is categorized as a "mild" switch, meaning it provides a gentle typing experience that appeals to most users. Lastly, the switch is considered "polished," resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In contrast, the Phoenix switch shares the same "polished" descriptor as the Black Lotus, meaning it also has a smooth and refined finish that contributes to a sleek typing experience. However, no other specific qualities are mentioned regarding its feel, so further information is not available.
To conclude, the Black Lotus switch offers a quiet sound profile and a silky, buttery, mild, and polished feel. It prioritizes smoothness and precision, reducing any wobbling for an optimal typing experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch features a unique under-skirt click mechanism, providing a distinct crunchy sound reminiscent of autumn leaves. Although no specific information is available about its feel, it also boasts a polished finish for a smooth typing experience. While these switches may offer different subjective qualities, both can provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit in different ways.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preferences and typing preferences. The Black Lotus offers a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, providing a substantial typing experience. With a silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, it minimizes wobble for maximum typing pleasure. The unique light column also adds a touch of customization. On the other hand, the Phoenix features a medium bottom-out force of 62 grams and stands out with its under-skirt click mechanism, offering a unique clicky switch experience. It provides a crystalline and sparkling type feel and sound profile.
When it comes to sound, the Black Lotus is not specifically described, so it seems to have a more standard linear switch sound. On the other hand, the Phoenix is described as having a crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves.
In terms of feel, both switches are described as having a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience. The Black Lotus is further described as feeling silky, buttery, mild, and polished, highlighting its smooth and refined keystroke experience. The Phoenix also boasts a polished feel, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, if you prefer a linear switch with medium-heavy bottom-out force and a silky smooth feel, the Durock Black Lotus is the way to go. However, if you desire a distinct clicky switch experience with a medium bottom-out force and a crisp and crunchy sound profile, the Outemu Phoenix is the ideal choice. Consider your typing preferences and the overall typing experience you seek when making your decision.
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