Durock Black Lotus vs. Outemu Red Panda

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Red Panda. The Black Lotus is a linear switch, known for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision. It boasts reduced housing and stem wobble, resulting in maximum typing pleasure. With a substantial 55g actuation weight, it offers a satisfying level of resistance without feeling too hefty. Additionally, the Black Lotus features a unique light column for in-switch lighting, which is fully removable. On the other hand, the Red Panda is a tactile switch that provides a light to medium level of tactility. Typing on these switches produces a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. Categorized as 'Thocky' and 'Mild,' the Red Panda offers a different typing experience compared to the smoothness of the Black Lotus. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.

By the numbers

Durock Black Lotus Linear

Outemu Red Panda Tactile

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

$3.40 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials used in the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Red Panda switches have notable similarities and differences. Starting with the top housing, the Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend, which gives it a unique and premium feel. In contrast, the Red Panda utilizes polycarbonate, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. Both materials offer aesthetic benefits, as the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting, while the modified PC and UPE Blend of the Black Lotus provides a premium appearance. Despite these differences, both materials contribute to enhancing the sound produced when pressing down and releasing a key.

Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Black Lotus and the Red Panda incorporate nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, typing on either switch will provide a similar experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel.

Overall, while the top housings of the Black Lotus and Red Panda differ in material, they both significantly impact the sound when letting go of a key. The modified PC and UPE Blend of the Black Lotus may contribute to a more premium and unique sound, while the polycarbonate of the Red Panda offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both switches create a deeper and fuller sound when pressing down on the keys. Therefore, depending on the desired sound profile and aesthetic preferences, individuals can choose between these switches to achieve similar or distinct results.

Weight

When comparing the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, one can observe a difference in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Black Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Red Panda requires 50 grams to initiate a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Black Lotus demands 63.5 grams, whereas the Red Panda requires 60 grams. Both switches can be considered medium in terms of their forces. The Black Lotus provides a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Red Panda, making it suitable for those who prefer a more substantial push feel. Conversely, the Red Panda offers a lighter actuation and bottom out force, making it a favorable choice for individuals who require longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. Ultimately, the weight preference depends on the user's personal preference and the specific purpose of the keyboard.

Travel distance

The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Black Lotus is shorter than the Red Panda. A travel distance of 4.0mm is considered more traditional, while 3.3mm is shallower. However, shorter travel distances have become popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. Choosing the Black Lotus with its shorter travel distance would provide a more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a switch with more depth. In that case, the Red Panda with its longer travel distance would be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the specific typing experience one is seeking.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Black Lotus switch is known for its unique light column that provides in-switch lighting and a fully removable feature. Unfortunately, the specific sound of the Black Lotus switch is not mentioned, so it is unclear how it compares to the Red Panda in terms of sound. The Red Panda switch, on the other hand, is described as having a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. This indicates that the Red Panda switch produces a distinct sound profile that may be preferable for those who enjoy a deeper and more pronounced sound when typing.

Moving on to the feel, the Black Lotus switch is described using several descriptors. It is referred to as silky, buttery, mild, and polished, which all contribute to a smooth and refined typing experience. These qualities suggest that the Black Lotus switch offers an exceptionally smooth and effortless keystroke, as well as reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch is described as mild, indicating a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. While the Red Panda switch may not offer the same level of smoothness as the Black Lotus, its mild nature ensures that the sound and feel will be approachable to most users.

In conclusion, the Black Lotus switch is known for its silky smooth feel, unparalleled precision, and reduced housing and stem wobble, making it a popular choice among those seeking maximum typing pleasure. However, the specific sound of the Black Lotus switch is not provided, so it is difficult to compare its sound qualities to the Red Panda switch. In terms of feel, the Black Lotus offers a range of positive descriptors such as silky, buttery, mild, and polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience. The Red Panda switch, on the other hand, is described as mild, providing a more gentle typing experience that should appeal to a wider range of users. While both switches have their own unique qualities, it is important to consider personal preferences and factors such as keyboard choice and keycaps to ultimately determine which switch would be the best fit for an individual's needs.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Durock Black Lotus is a great choice. It offers a silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, minimizing housing and stem wobble for maximum typing pleasure. The unique light column provides in-switch lighting and is fully removable, giving you customization options. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force, the Outemu Red Panda is worth considering. When typing on these switches, you'll experience a light-medium amount of tactility, a bassier bottom-out sound, and a clackier top-out sound. Both switches have their own unique sound and feel qualities, with the Black Lotus offering a polished and buttery typing experience and the Red Panda providing a mild and approachable experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences and the typing experience you desire.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Black Lotus Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Red Panda Tactile

$3.40 per 10

Learn more