Everglide Crystal Violet vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Outemu Lotus offer distinct typing experiences to cater to different preferences. The Crystal Violet is a tactile switch that is renowned for its light operating force of 45g, making it ideal for those who enjoy a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience. With a mellow and low-pitched sound profile, these switches provide a gentle and comfortable feel while typing. On the other hand, the Lotus is a linear switch that offers a different typing experience altogether. While not much information is available about the Lotus, linear switches in general are known for their smooth and consistent keystrokes without any tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
45g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
ABS
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
ABS
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Outemu Lotus, we see that both switches feature ABS top housings. This ABS material is more commonly found in keycaps rather than switch housings, but it provides a relatively low-pitched sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the Lotus boasts a nylon top housing which is a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with a nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, creating a rounder and duller sound profile.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Crystal Violet and Lotus also feature ABS and nylon respectively. The ABS bottom housing of the Crystal Violet offers a similar low-pitched sound profile like its top housing, while the nylon bottom housing of the Lotus contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This shows that the choice of material for the bottom housing can affect the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. In contrast, the top housing material plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Crystal Violet and Lotus switches, both ABS and nylon bring distinct qualities to the typing experience. ABS provides a low-pitched sound profile, while nylon offers a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer and more sound-absorbent nature. Ultimately, the choice between these two housing materials will depend on the user's preference for the sound profile and feel of the switch. Whether it be the Crystal Violet's ABS or the Lotus's nylon, both switches deliver a unique typing experience that can cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Lotus linear switch, which has an actuation force of 35 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Crystal Violet requires 55 grams while the Lotus needs 50 grams. This means that the Crystal Violet has a medium-light feel overall, while the Lotus is on the lighter side. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Lotus would be the ideal choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Crystal Violet would be more suitable for those who prefer a bit more resistance and feedback while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, it is clear that the Crystal Violet has a longer travel distance at 4 mm, while the Lotus has a shorter travel distance at 3.3 mm. The Crystal Violet's 4 mm travel distance is more traditional, providing a deeper keypress feel, which can be preferred by those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Lotus's shorter 3.3 mm travel distance is more suitable for gamers and individuals looking for a quicker response time. While both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying travel distances, they each have their own benefits depending on personal preference. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether a longer or shorter travel distance is preferred for optimal typing or gaming performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Crystal Violet has an MSRP of $7.08 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crystal Violet for $4.19.
The Outemu Lotus 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
In terms of sound, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch offers a low-pitched and mellow tone due to the unique use of ABS in its housing, providing a subtle and non-intrusive auditory experience. On the other hand, information regarding the sound profile of the Outemu Lotus linear switch is currently unavailable. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Crystal Violet tactile switch is described as creamy, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels effortless and silky. Additionally, it offers a mild typing experience with a stepped tactile feel, giving users a gentle and comfortable typing experience. As for the Outemu Lotus linear switch, information regarding its tactile feel is not provided, so it's important to consider that there may be differences in the typing experience compared to the Crystal Violet switch.
Considering the available information, it can be concluded that the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch is best suited for those looking for a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience with a low-pitched and mellow sound profile. On the other hand, details about the Outemu Lotus linear switch are limited, so it's recommended to try out both switches personally to determine which one aligns best with your preferences. If you enjoy the gentle feel and subtle sound profile of the Crystal Violet switch, you may find similar satisfaction with the Outemu Lotus switch. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to consider your typing style and preferences when choosing between the two.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a light operating force and a relaxed tactile typing experience with a mellow sound profile, the Crystal Violet may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force and a linear typing feel without any tactile feedback, the Lotus switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking. Consider trying out both switches to see which one suits your typing style and preferences best.
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