Durock Black Lotus vs. Outemu Yellow Silver

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Yellow Silver. The Black Lotus is a linear switch that is known for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision. It excels in reducing housing and stem wobble, resulting in maximum typing pleasure. With an actuation weight of 55g, it offers a substantial but not overly hefty feel. Additionally, its unique light column provides in-switch lighting that is fully removable. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver from Outemu is also a linear switch with a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile. It is a favored choice for gamers and typists who prioritize speediness and responsiveness. While both switches have their merits, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your specific needs.

By the numbers

Durock Black Lotus Linear

Outemu Yellow Silver Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

$3.40 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches have contrasting housing materials that contribute to their unique characteristics. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, which provides a premium feel and potentially enhances RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Yellow Silver switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound.

Similarly, both switches employ a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, and it absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic composition. Therefore, both switches benefit from a rounder and duller sound created by the nylon bottom housing.

Despite their differences, the impact of each housing material on the switch's performance is evident. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities brought by the bottom housing become prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key.

In comparing the two switches, while they differ in their materials, they both offer unique experiences. The Black Lotus's modified PC and UPE Blend top housing provides a premium and tactile feel, while the Yellow Silver's polycarbonate top housing yields a sharper and crisper sound. However, typing on both switches with their nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. So, while the materials used may be different, both switches are capable of delivering a satisfying typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it is clear that there are differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Black Lotus requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Yellow Silver's 45 grams. This means that the Black Lotus switch would provide a slightly stronger push feel when typing. In terms of bottom out force, the Black Lotus requires 63.5 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Yellow Silver's 55 grams.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Yellow Silver switch would be a suitable choice as it has a lower actuation and bottom out force. This lighter force allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may find the Black Lotus switch more suitable due to its heavier actuation and bottom out force. These heavier forces provide a greater tactile feedback and a more satisfying typing experience.

Overall, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch offers a medium-heavy actuation and bottom out force, while the Outemu Yellow Silver switch offers a medium-light force. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience. However, regardless of the choice, both switches provide distinct and satisfying tactile feedback, ensuring a pleasant typing experience.

Travel distance

The Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on the keys using either switch, you will feel a consistent 4 mm of travel distance. The similarity in travel distance ensures that you will get similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness when using either switch. Both switches offer a comfortable amount of travel distance for typing or gaming purposes.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Black Lotus switch is known for its neutral sound profile. This means that it does not have any specific characteristics that make it particularly loud or quiet. It falls in the middle ground, making it suitable for most purposes and preferences. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Black Lotus switch is described as offering a silky and buttery typing experience. These descriptors indicate that the switch provides an exceptionally smooth and fluid keystroke feel. It minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, resulting in a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, the switch is described as mild and polished, suggesting that it offers a gentle and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

On the other hand, information about the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is not provided. Therefore, it is unknown how it compares to the Black Lotus in terms of feel.

Considering all the available information, it can be concluded that the Black Lotus switch excels in terms of its feel, providing a silky, buttery, mild, and polished typing experience. However, in terms of sound, it is on par with the neutral sound profile of the Yellow Silver switch. Therefore, if the newcomer is looking for a similar sound experience, they can expect similar results with the Yellow Silver switch. Nonetheless, since the feel of the Yellow Silver switch is not described, it is difficult to make a comprehensive comparison between the two switches in this aspect.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique light column for in-switch lighting, the Durock Black Lotus would be a great choice. With its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, this switch will provide maximum typing pleasure. Additionally, the Black Lotus reduces housing and stem wobble, further enhancing its reliability. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lighter actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Yellow Silver would be a suitable option. Known for its speediness and responsiveness, this switch is favored by gamers and typists alike. Whether you are a beginner or advanced, and whether you plan to use these switches at home or work, the Yellow Silver's medium actuation force makes it versatile for most intents and purposes. Ultimately, the decision between the Durock Black Lotus and the Outemu Yellow Silver comes down to your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics, so choose the one that aligns with your typing preferences and requirements. In the end, you will have a satisfying and customized typing experience with either switch.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Black Lotus Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Yellow Silver Linear

$3.40 per 10

Learn more