Gateron Glory Yellow vs. Outemu Lotus

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Outemu Lotus offer two distinct choices for users seeking a linear switch experience. The Glory Yellow is well-regarded for its heavier feel, providing a smooth keystroke and a satisfying travel distance that many typists appreciate, enhancing overall typing enjoyment. On the other hand, while the Outemu Lotus may not have a specific accolade highlighting its performance, it is often chosen for its affordability and suitable linear characteristics, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious gamers and typists alike. Each switch has its own set of advantages, with the Glory Yellow favoring a more pronounced tactile experience and the Lotus appealing to those seeking value and reliability. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Glory Yellow Linear

Outemu Lotus Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Glory Yellow and Outemu Lotus switches both feature top and bottom housings made from nylon, a classic material in the world of mechanical keyboard switches. This commonality means that both switches will produce a similar sound profile when typing. The nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. This is particularly advantageous for users seeking a quieter typing environment, as the sound generated is duller and rounder. Consequently, whether using the Glory Yellow or the Outemu Lotus, users can expect a consistency in auditory feedback that is appealing for both casual and professional users.

While the top and bottom housings of both switches are identical in material—nylon—the interaction of these materials contributes to the overall feel and sound produced during typing. The bottom housing, which is pressed fully during usage, influences the bottom-out sound and gives a tactile response that matters greatly to the typing experience. Meanwhile, the top housing primarily affects the sound emitted when releasing the keys. As both switches are crafted from nylon for both housings, users will typically find that they can transition between the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Outemu Lotus without significant changes in their typing feedback or sound profile.

In summary, the Gateron Glory Yellow and Outemu Lotus switches share a fundamental similarity in their nylon housing materials, ensuring users enjoy a comparable sound and tactile experience. The shared qualities of the nylon—combined with the breakpoints in typing influenced by each housing—allow for a unique yet consistent performance across both switch types. Thus, regardless of personal preference between brands, users can relish in the advantages offered by nylon material, achieving satisfactory auditory and tactile results in their mechanical keyboards.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, we observe notable differences in their actuation forces, which can significantly impact the typing experience. The Glory Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Lotus is lighter at 35 grams. This weight difference suggests that the Glory Yellow may provide a more substantial feel, appealing to users who prefer a heavier switch for a stronger typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, however, the Gateron Glory Yellow does not have an available specification, whereas the Lotus has a bottom out force of 50 grams, classified as light. Even though the bottom out force for the Glory Yellow is unknown, the known capability of the Lotus provides a baseline, indicating that users of the Lotus will experience a definitive bottom out feel at a weight that's considered light. Overall, those who prioritize a lighter switch for longer typing sessions may favor the Outemu Lotus, while those who enjoy a heavier, more pronounced feedback should consider the Gateron Glory Yellow.

Travel distance

The Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Outemu Lotus linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This difference means that the Glory Yellow provides a deeper keypress, which can feel more satisfying for those who prefer a more substantial tactile experience. In contrast, the shorter 3.3 mm travel distance of the Lotus may appeal to gamers seeking quick response times and rapid actuation. While both switches serve different preferences, users looking for a more conventional and pronounced feel in their typing experience would likely gravitate toward the Glory Yellow, whereas those favoring a more responsive, rapid actuation might prefer the Lotus.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch tends to have a relatively quiet operation, which promotes a more subtle typing experience. While specific sound descriptions for the Lotus linear switch are not readily available, it's important to note that the sound produced by any switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard construction, plate materials, and keycap profile. Thus, one might find that these switches could produce similar acoustic qualities when used in comparable builds, especially since linear switches generally prioritize a smoother and quieter typing sound.

When it comes to tactile feedback and overall feel, the Glory Yellow is recognized for its smooth keystroke and satisfying travel distance, providing a consistent and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, while there are no specific descriptions available regarding the feel of the Outemu Lotus switch, linear switches by nature tend to provide a similar absence of tactile bump, which may align with the smoother characteristics of the Glory Yellow. Newcomers should expect a fluid keypress action from both, which can reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.

In conclusion, while the Gateron Glory Yellow demonstrates clear strengths in sound profile and tactile feedback, the lack of detailed information regarding the Outemu Lotus suggests it may either share similar characteristics or present a wholly different experience in those respects. For those seeking a quiet and smooth linear switch, both options are likely to deliver satisfying performance, making them worthy considerations for any mechanical keyboard enthusiast.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Outemu Lotus linear switches, the key factors to consider are your typing preferences and the specific experiences you are seeking from a mechanical keyboard. The Gateron Glory Yellow switch might be the ideal choice for you if you favor a smoother keystroke with a satisfying travel distance, as it is designed to provide an enjoyable typing experience. Although specific sound characteristics weren't detailed, the reputation of the Glory lineup suggests a pleasant auditory feedback that complements its performance. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a bottom out force of 50 grams, the Outemu Lotus could be more appropriate for you, especially if you find lighter switches too delicate for your typing style. While the sound and feel descriptions for the Lotus were also unavailable, its lighter feel may allow for quicker key presses, making it suitable for fast typing or gaming scenarios. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a smooth, enjoyable keystroke experience with the Glory Yellow or a reliable, firmer feel from the Lotus.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Glory Yellow Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Lotus Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more