Durock Blue Lotus vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Blue Lotus and Outemu Black offer distinct features catering to different preferences. The Durock Blue Lotus is a tactile switch celebrated for its tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, making it ideal for those who enjoy a marked tactile feel. With a slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm and a detachable light column for vibrant RGB illumination, these switches combine performance with captivating visual appeal. In contrast, the Outemu Black is a linear switch that may appeal to those seeking a smoother keystroke without tactile feedback. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences; 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
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Blue Lotus and the Outemu Black both use different materials for their top and bottom housings, with the Blue Lotus featuring a modified PC & UPE blend top housing and a nylon bottom housing. In contrast, the Outemu Black has a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Outemu Black creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of both switches elicits a deeper and fuller sound. However, the Blue Lotus's modified PC & UPE blend top housing gives it a unique and premium feel compared to the Outemu Black's polycarbonate top housing.
While the nylon bottom housing of both switches creates a similar deep and full sound profile, the difference lies in the top housing material. The Durock Blue Lotus's modified PC & UPE blend top housing offers a premium feel and sound quality, while the Outemu Black's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. The choice of housing material in a switch can significantly impact the overall typing experience, with the stiffness of polycarbonate and the softer nature of nylon influencing the sound and feel of each keystroke.
In summary, the housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the Outemu Black play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the top housing material sets them apart, with the Blue Lotus featuring a modified PC & UPE blend for a premium feel and the Outemu Black using polycarbonate for a sharper sound profile. Understanding the differences in housing materials can help keyboard enthusiasts make an informed choice based on their sound and typing preferences.
Weight
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Outemu Black linear switch, which has a higher actuation force of 65 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Blue Lotus requires 65 grams, while the Black switch demands 82 grams. This makes the Outemu Black switch heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces. The lighter actuation force of the Blue Lotus may be preferred by those looking for a more effortless typing experience for extended periods, while the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Black switch provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Regardless, users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience depending on their preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Outemu Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Black switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Blue Lotus. This means that pressing down on a key with the Outemu Black switch will require a slightly deeper push compared to the Blue Lotus switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Blue Lotus with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more robust and deep key press may lean towards the Outemu Black switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Blue 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 Blue Lotus for $4.57.
The Outemu Black 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
Overall, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch offers a unique blend of tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a marked tactile feel. The switch's slightly reduced travel distance and detachable light column for RGB illumination add to its appeal both in terms of performance and aesthetics. When it comes to sound, the Blue Lotus is characterized by a deep and rich bassy tone during key presses, adding to the overall typing experience. In terms of feel, the Blue Lotus provides a medium amount of tactility that is accentuated by its snappy and stepped design, making each keystroke feel more alive. In contrast, the Outemu Black linear switch's subjective qualities are unknown. While the Black switch may offer a different typing experience compared to the Blue Lotus, it's important to note that individual preferences play a significant role in determining the best switch for each user. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for a tactile or linear typing experience. If you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, a snappy and accented feel, and a bassey sound profile, then the Blue Lotus would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Black may be more suited to your preferences. Consider the type of typing experience you enjoy most and the sound and feel you prefer when making your decision between these two switches.
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