Outemu Crystal vs. Durock White Lotus

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a wide variety of options to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics. Two popular switches to consider are the Outemu Crystal, a linear switch, and the Durock White Lotus, a tactile switch. The Crystal switches are known for their unique, linear typing experience, offering a fairly elastic type feel with a medium-light weight. Typing on these switches is accompanied by a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the White Lotus switches are designed with the discerning typist in mind, offering a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance. They are particularly ideal for work and extended typing sessions, as they provide a satisfying tactile feedback without overwhelming the user. Additionally, with their removable light column, the White Lotus switches allow for vibrant and luminous RGB lighting effects, adding a captivating glow to your keyboard setup. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.

By the numbers

Outemu Crystal Linear

Durock White Lotus Tactile

$3.40 per 10

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

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Housing materials

The Outemu Crystal and the Durock White Lotus have different materials used for their top housings. The Crystal's top housing is made of polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it a great choice for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the White Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, which gives it a unique and premium feel. Although the specific sound profile is not mentioned, this material choice suggests that it may offer a different sound experience compared to the Crystal's polycarbonate top housing.

In terms of the bottom housing, both the Crystal and the White Lotus differ in their materials as well. The Crystal uses polycarbonate for its bottom housing, which contributes to the sharper and crisper sound profile that polycarbonate is known for. Similarly to the top housing, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the White Lotus features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, if sound profile is a priority, the Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing may provide a more clear and resonant experience, while the White Lotus's nylon bottom housing may offer a deeper and fuller sound.

When considering the overall impact of the housing materials, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings play different roles in the overall sound and feel of a switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, with the Crystal's polycarbonate top and bottom housings, you can expect a consistently sharper and crisper sound throughout the typing experience. On the other hand, the White Lotus's combination of modified PC and UPE Blend top housing with a nylon bottom housing may offer a unique balance between sharpness and depth in sound, with the bottom-out sound being influenced by the nylon and the release sound by the modified PC and UPE Blend. This showcases how different housing materials can contribute to the overall sound and feel of a switch.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it is clear that both switches have quite similar force requirements. The actuation force for the Crystal is slightly lighter at 45 grams, while the White Lotus requires 46 grams to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the Crystal has a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the White Lotus requires 56 grams to fully press down. In terms of weight, both switches fall into the medium-light category, offering a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Therefore, users can expect similar results when typing on either of these switches, enjoying a lighter typing experience that allows for extended use without fatigue, while still providing a substantial push for a satisfying typing sensation.

Travel distance

Both the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance of movement. Whether you prefer a linear or tactile switch, both the Crystal and White Lotus will provide a consistent and satisfying key press feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is best described as chirpy and high-pitched. These switches have a unique acoustic signature, with a little squeak and a sharp, crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile. These switches offer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, making them suitable for those who prefer a less rich and bassy sound. Both switches provide different sound profiles, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their preference. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is described as polished. This indicates that the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The polished finish reduces friction and provides a smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offers an easy-to-press and mild typing feel. These switches have a gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The White Lotus switches also fall into a safe middle-ground zone, offering a subtle resistance and a low-impact typing feel. Overall, both switches provide a different tactile experience, catering to different preferences and typing styles.

Taking into account the available information, the Outemu Crystal linear switch provides a unique linear typing experience with a chirpy and high-pitched sound profile. It offers a polished feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is designed with the discerning typist in mind. It strikes a balance between tactility and typing comfort, offering a delicate tactility and a low-pitched, neutral sound profile. These switches also feature a removable light column, allowing for vibrant RGB lighting effects. Depending on whether you prefer a linear or tactile switch and your sound and feel preferences, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience.

Conclusion

Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style.

If you are someone who enjoys a unique and linear typing experience, with a medium-light weight and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Crystal switch would be a great choice for you. Its bottom out force of 55 grams provides a comfortable actuation force, and the switches have a polished finish that ensures smooth key travel and reduced friction. However, it's important to note that the Crystal switches have a chirpy and high-pitched sound when pressed, which can be a deciding factor for those who prefer a quieter typing experience.

On the other hand, if you prioritize a delicate tactility and want a switch that strikes the perfect balance between feedback and comfort, the Durock White Lotus switch is an ideal option. With a bottom out force of 56 grams, these switches offer a mild and subtle typing experience that is easy on your fingers during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the White Lotus switches feature a removable light column that allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, adding a captivating glow to your keyboard setup. They also have a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced typist.

In the end, both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. If you prioritize a linear typing experience, the Outemu Crystal is a good choice, while the Durock White Lotus is perfect for those who value gentle tactility and versatile RGB lighting effects. Consider your personal preferences for feel, sound, and typing style to make an informed decision that will enhance your overall typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Crystal Linear

$3.40 per 10

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Durock White Lotus Tactile

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more