Durock Blue Lotus vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Durock Blue Lotus and the Outemu Yellow Silver are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct characteristics and benefits. The Blue Lotus switch from Durock is renowned for its tactile intensity and swift responsiveness. With its slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm, compared to the standard 4mm, these switches provide a snappy feel that appeals to those who enjoy a pronounced tactile response. Additionally, the Blue Lotus switches feature a detachable light column, adding vibrant, glowy RGB illumination for a visually captivating experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch, produced by Outemu, is favored by gamers and typists seeking speediness and responsiveness. Known for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, this linear switch offers a smooth and consistent keystroke experience. Although these general pointers can help guide your decision, let's delve deeper into the specifics of each switch to accurately determine which option suits your preferences best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the Outemu Yellow Silver, there are a few notable differences. The Blue Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, which gives it a unique and premium feel. In contrast, the Yellow Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. While both materials offer a clear housing for RGB lighting, the polycarbonate material of the Yellow Silver creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Blue Lotus. However, both switches provide a satisfying and resonant sound when releasing a key, thanks to the qualities of their respective top housings.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Blue Lotus and the Yellow Silver use nylon. This classic switch housing material elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, regardless of the specific switch. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, despite the difference in the overall switch design, typing on both the Blue Lotus and the Yellow Silver will offer a similar experience in terms of the sound produced.
It's important to note that the qualities brought by each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, influencing different aspects of the typing experience. While the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing significantly affects the sound when releasing a key. In this regard, the modified PC and UPE Blend top housing of the Blue Lotus and the polycarbonate top housing of the Yellow Silver will provide distinct sensations when releasing keys, potentially suiting individual preferences.
In conclusion, the Durock Blue Lotus and the Outemu Yellow Silver offer different combinations of housing materials that contribute to their unique typing experiences. The Blue Lotus's modified PC and UPE Blend top housing gives it a premium feel, while the Yellow Silver's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Despite these differences, typing on both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience, with each housing material contributing to the overall sound and feel in its own way.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, we can observe some key differences. The Blue Lotus has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams, compared to the Yellow Silver's lighter 45 grams. Similarly, the Blue Lotus also has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, whereas the Yellow Silver requires 55 grams of force for bottoming out. These distinctions make the Blue Lotus a medium-heavy switch, while the Yellow Silver falls under the medium-light category.
Considering weight as an important factor, those who prefer a lighter touch might appreciate the Yellow Silver switch. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces make it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions, reducing the strain on fingers and allowing for comfortable usage over prolonged periods. On the other hand, individuals who desire a stronger push and a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Blue Lotus. Its higher actuation and bottom out forces provide a satisfying resistance, creating a tactile feedback that some users find advantageous.
Despite their differences, both switches offer a well-balanced typing experience, catering to individual preferences. For those seeking a similar typing feel between the two switches, one can achieve comparable results by opting for the lighter side of both switches. Choosing the Yellow Silver linear switch and applying a slightly heavier touch while typing can yield results akin to the Blue Lotus tactile switch. Conversely, selecting the Blue Lotus and adopting a lighter touch can replicate the touch experience of the Yellow Silver. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal typing style and the desired level of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Lotus has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Yellow Silver has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may seem minimal, but it can have implications on the overall typing or gaming experience. 4.0 mm is considered to be the most traditional travel distance, providing a standard depth that many users are accustomed to. On the other hand, the Blue Lotus offers a slightly shallower travel distance which is preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. The 0.3 mm difference might not seem significant, but it can contribute to quicker keystrokes. However, it is worth noting that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt or lacking in depth. For those who prefer a more satisfying keystroke experience with a hearty feel, the Yellow Silver may be a preferable choice with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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 Durock Blue Lotus switches are described as being "bassy." This means that they have a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, similar to the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switches are described as having a "neutral" sound profile. This means that they have a moderate sound profile that is suitable for a variety of purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you are using the switches at home or work. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switches have several descriptors that provide a better understanding of their tactile experience. They are described as being "accented," which means that they offer a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. They are also described as being "snappy," indicating that they are super responsive due to longer or dual-staged springs. Additionally, the Blue Lotus switches are referred to as "stepped," meaning that they have a two-stage feel, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel that adds to the typing experience. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available about the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switches.
In conclusion, the Durock Blue Lotus switches are characterized by a marked tactile feel, snappiness, and vibrant RGB illumination, making them a great choice for those who enjoy tactile switches with a satisfying level of tactility. They also offer a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, thanks to their bassy characteristics. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switches are favored for their light actuation force, neutral sound profile, and speediness, making them suitable for gamers and typists who prefer a more responsive typing experience. While there is no specific information available about the feel of the Yellow Silver switches, it is likely that they provide a relatively neutral and moderate tactile experience. Both switches offer their own unique qualities, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who enjoys a marked tactile feel and wants a switch that delivers a striking blend of tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, the Durock Blue Lotus switches would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, these medium-heavy switches provide a satisfying and accentuated tactile feedback. Additionally, the Blue Lotus switches come with a detachable light column, offering vibrant RGB illumination.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lighter actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Yellow Silver switches would be the way to go. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, these medium-light linear switches provide a snappy and responsive typing experience suitable for both gamers and typists. The Yellow Silver switches have a neutral sound profile, making them a versatile choice for various settings and purposes.
Ultimately, your choice between the Blue Lotus and the Yellow Silver will depend on your personal preferences. If you prioritize tactile feedback and visual appeal, the Blue Lotus switches are the way to go. However, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness with a neutral sound profile, the Yellow Silver switches would be a better fit. Consider your typing style and needs to make an informed decision. In the end, both switches offer their own unique advantages, providing options for different users and preferences.
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