Zuoce Lavender vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Lotus, both of which are linear switches. The Zuoce Lavender switch is praised for its exceptional smoothness thanks to its proprietary Ly blend, offering users a satisfying typing experience with a crisp and clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus switch lacks specific standout features but provides a reliable linear typing experience. The Lavender is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', while the Lotus does not have any specific categorization. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences, but diving deeper into their individual characteristics will help you make the best choice for your personal typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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 and the Outemu Lotus both feature unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Lavender utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and muted sound profile. Conversely, the Lotus utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, creating a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon. Despite these differences, both switches offer a pleasing typing experience with a focus on sound quality.
However, if we were to compare the top housing materials separately, we would find that the Lavender's POM top housing produces a unique and pleasant sound profile that is on the deeper side, while the Lotus's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature. In terms of the bottom housing materials, the POM bottom housing of the Lavender and the nylon bottom housing of the Lotus both contribute to the overall sound profile, with the POM creating a muted sound and the nylon absorbing more sound for a rounder sound quality.
Overall, the choice between the Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Lotus ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. While the Lavender's POM housing creates a unique and pleasing sound on the deeper side, the Lotus's nylon housing offers a fuller sound with a rounder tone. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, with the housing materials playing a significant role in shaping the overall sound profile of each switch. Ultimately, whether you prefer a deeper and muted sound or a fuller and rounder sound will determine which switch is the right choice for you.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, it is evident that the Lotus is the lighter option with an actuation force of 35 grams compared to the Lavender's 48 grams. Similarly, the Lotus also has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Lavender has a bottom out force of 53 grams. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Lotus would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Lavender due to its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches offer distinct experiences based on the weight preferences of the user, with the Lotus providing a lighter touch and the Lavender offering a slightly heavier feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Lotus linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prioritize quick response times, such as gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly faster response time for the Lotus switch compared to the Lavender switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired level of responsiveness.
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 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
When comparing the Zuoce Lavender linear switch to the Outemu Lotus linear switch, the Lavender stands out for its smoothness and distinct clacky sound signature. The Lavender switch is known for its exceptional smoothness right out of the box, making each keystroke satisfying with a crisp and bright sound. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound of the Lotus switch.
In terms of feel, the Lavender switch is described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances the typing experience by making it effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Unfortunately, there is no available information about the feel of the Lotus switch.
Overall, if the Lavender and Lotus switches have similar qualities in terms of feel, such as being easy-to-press, then users can expect a comparable typing experience between the two. However, based on the provided information, the Zuoce Lavender switch may be preferred for its smoothness and clacky sound signature, offering a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Zuoce Lavender linear switch or the Outemu Lotus linear switch, you should opt for the Lavender if you prioritize smoothness and a satisfying clacky sound signature in your typing experience. The Lavender's medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams offers a comfortable typing feel with minimal finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom out force of 50 grams, the Lotus may be the better option for you. However, it's worth noting that the Lotus lacks distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel compared to the Lavender. Ultimately, your decision should align with your preferences for typing sound, feel, and actuation force.
Mentioned in this article
