Zuoce Lavender vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Zuoce Lavender and Outemu Black mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes apparent that both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Lavender switch is renowned for its smoothness and satisfying clacky sound signature, providing users with an excellent tactile typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the Black switch does not have any standout features noted, but it is known for its reliability and consistency. While the Lavender switch is labeled as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', the Black switch does not have any specific categorization. Each switch offers its own advantages, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision based on your individual needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
65g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Zuoce Lavender utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Outemu Black features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. This difference in housing materials contributes to the unique sound profiles of each switch.
One key similarity between the Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Black is that they both focus on creating a pleasing sound experience for the user. While the Lavender's POM housing creates a deep and unique sound, the Black's combination of polycarbonate and nylon also aims to provide a satisfying typing experience. Both switches take advantage of the properties of their respective housing materials to enhance the audio feedback when typing.
Overall, the choice between the Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Black may come down to individual preferences in sound profile. The Lavender's POM housing offers a more muted and deep sound, while the Black's polycarbonate and nylon combination produces a sharper and fuller sound. Whether you prefer a softer, more rounded sound or a crisper, higher-pitched sound, both switches have unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience and sound profile of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, it is clear that the Lavender is the lighter option with an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Black is the heavier option with an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams. The Lavender provides a medium-light typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended periods of typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Black switch offers a heavier push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger force when typing. Both switches serve different preferences, with the Lavender catering to those who prefer lighter forces and the Black catering to those who prefer heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's personal typing style and preference for actuation forces.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch have different travel distances. The Lavender has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the traditional 4 mm travel distance of the Black switch. Gamers might prefer the Lavender switch for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance. However, those who prefer a more hearty depth when typing may opt for the Outemu Black switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
The Outemu Black 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 Zuoce Lavender linear switch is known for its clacky and crisp sound signature, providing a satisfying and distinct auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Black linear switch's sound qualities are unknown, but it is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Zuoce Lavender switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering a gentle resistance during key presses that requires minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances typing efficiency and comfort, allowing for reduced finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Although the feel of the Outemu Black switch is unspecified, it is clear that the Lavender's smooth and effortless keystrokes contribute to an overall pleasant typing experience.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch stands out for its smoothness, clacky sound, and easy-to-press feel, making it a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While information regarding the Outemu Black switch's sound and feel qualities is currently unavailable, it is possible to expect similar results in terms of smoothness and operation due to their both being linear switches. Ultimately, personal preference and typing style will play a significant role in determining which switch is the best fit for each user.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for key feel and sound. If you prioritize a smooth and easy-to-press typing experience with a crisp and clacky sound, the Lavender switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are not as concerned with sound, the Black switch could be more suitable for your needs. Consider your typing style and preferences carefully to determine which switch will best enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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