Durock Blue Lotus vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch to the Outemu Green clicky switch, it's essential to consider the key differences between the two. The Blue Lotus is praised for its unique combination of tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, making it perfect for those who appreciate a pronounced tactile feel while typing. Additionally, the Blue Lotus features a slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm, adding to its snappiness. On the other hand, the Outemu Green switch offers a satisfying clicky feedback with each keystroke, ideal for those who prefer auditory confirmation while typing. 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
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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 Green switches both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile and feel. The Blue Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend top housing provides a premium and unique feel, while the Green's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. Both materials offer distinct advantages, with the PC & UPE Blend top housing offering a different tactile experience compared to the crisper sound profile of the polycarbonate top housing. However, both materials excel in providing a clear and resonant sound profile, making them both excellent choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Blue Lotus and the Green switches feature nylon bottom housings. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. As a result, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings creates a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. The shared use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches ensures that both the Blue Lotus and the Green switches deliver a satisfying typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound.
While the housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the Outemu Green switches may differ in their top housing composition, they both offer a high-quality typing experience with unique sound profiles. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a balance of qualities, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Whether it's the premium feel of the modified PC & UPE Blend top housing of the Blue Lotus or the sharper sound profile of the polycarbonate top housing of the Green, both switches excel in providing a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, it is evident that the Blue Lotus is lighter in both aspects. The Blue Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Green has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. This means that the Blue Lotus requires less force to trigger a keystroke and less force when fully pressed compared to the Outemu Green switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Blue Lotus more favorable, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. In contrast, the heavier actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Green switch may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. Overall, the differences in force between the two switches cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, we find that the Blue Lotus has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Green has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Outemu Green clicky switch has a slightly longer travel distance than the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch. This may result in a slightly different typing experience for users, with the shorter travel distance of the Blue Lotus potentially providing a quicker response time, which may be preferred by gamers. However, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the slightly longer travel distance of the Outemu Green clicky 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 Green 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Blue Lotus switch is often characterized as having a bassy profile, offering a deeper and richer sound during key presses. This gives a satisfying auditory experience that can enhance the overall typing sensation. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Outemu Green clicky switch is not available, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard's construction and the keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switch is known for its accented tactile feedback, providing a noticeable bump without being overwhelming. This, combined with its snappy response and stepped feel, creates a typing experience that is both engaging and comfortable. Unfortunately, details about the tactile feel of the Outemu Green switch are not provided. Since tactile feedback is a crucial aspect of switch selection, it is recommended to try out switches in person or seek more detailed reviews to determine the best fit for personal preference.
Overall, the Durock Blue Lotus switch stands out for its tactile intensity, swift responsiveness, and striking visual appeal with RGB illumination, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts seeking a tactile typing experience. The Outemu Green switch, while lacking specific details in sound and feel, is known for its clicky mechanism that provides audible feedback during typing. Both switches have their own strengths, so it ultimately comes down to individual preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Experimenting with different switches is key to finding the perfect match for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, you should choose the Blue Lotus if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, accentuated tactile feel, and snappy responsiveness. The Blue Lotus switches also offer a unique visual appeal with their detachable light column for RGB illumination. On the other hand, opt for the Outemu Green if you prefer a heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for tactility, responsiveness, and bottom out force.
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