Durock Koala vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Koala, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Lotus, a linear switch. The Koala is favored for its middle ground nature, offering a pronounced bump without being overwhelming, making it ideal for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience without excessive noise. On the other hand, the Lotus is a linear switch that provides a smooth keystroke with no tactile feedback, offering a consistent typing experience. While the Koala is often described as polished, low-pitched, and accented, the Lotus is known for its simplicity. 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
N/A
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Koala and Outemu Lotus switches both feature nylon housing materials for their bottom housings, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This similarity in bottom housing materials means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. However, the Koala sets itself apart with its polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Lotus utilizes a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. This difference in top housing materials leads to varying sound profiles between the two switches, with the Koala offering a more distinct and resonant sound compared to the Lotus.
The choice of housing materials in switches plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the typing experience. While both the Koala and Lotus switches use nylon for their bottom housing, the Koala's polycarbonate top housing results in a more clear and resonant sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Koala switch allows for a sharper and higher-pitched sound, which is ideal for those looking for a more distinct typing experience. In comparison, the Lotus's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile that may appeal to users seeking a quieter typing experience.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the Durock Koala and Outemu Lotus switches lead to distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound, the Koala's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the Lotus's nylon top housing, which creates a duller and rounder sound. Whether you prefer a more resonant and clear sound like the Koala or a deeper and fuller sound like the Lotus, the choice of housing materials plays a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience with each switch.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, it is evident that the Koala requires no specific actuation force and has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. In contrast, the Lotus has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, classifying it as light. The difference in force between the two switches showcases the Koala as the heavier option, while the Lotus is lighter. This variance in weight contributes to different typing experiences, with the Koala offering a more substantial push feel and the Lotus providing a lighter touch. Depending on the user's preference, they can choose between a switch with a heavier force for a more significant typing experience or a lighter force for extended typing periods. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and desired levels of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Durock Koala tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Lotus has a shorter travel distance compared to the Koala. A difference of 0.7 mm may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall feel and performance of the switch. The Koala with its longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback and a deeper keystroke feel, ideal for those who prefer a bit more depth in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Lotus with its shorter travel distance might be preferred by those who prioritize speed and quick response times, such as gamers. Both switches offer unique characteristics, so choosing between them would depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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 Durock Koala tactile switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for most users. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the sound of the Outemu Lotus linear switch. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Durock Koala is praised for its polished, accented, stepped, and stiff qualities. These switches offer a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel, featuring a medium tactile feel that is not overwhelming but still noticeable. In comparison, there is no information provided about the feel of the Outemu Lotus linear switch.
Overall, the Durock Koala tactile switch seems to offer a balanced and tactile typing experience with a unique stepped tactility, pronounced bump, and moderate sound profile. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Lotus linear switch remain unknown, it is important for newcomers to consider their preferences in sound and feel when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches may result in similar performance depending on individual typing preferences and setup configurations.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, tactility, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a stepped tactility and a polished, accented feel, the Koala switch is a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force with a neutral sound profile and are looking for a linear switch, the Lotus switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for. Choose wisely based on your desired key feel and sound characteristics.
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