Zuoce Lavender vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The Lavender switch is praised for its exceptional smoothness and crisp, clacky sound signature, making typing a satisfying experience. On the other hand, while there is no specific standout feature for the Purple switch, its tactile feedback provides a noticeable bump during key presses. When deciding between these switches, those who prefer an easy-to-press, smooth typing experience may lean towards the Lavender, while individuals who enjoy tactile feedback may prefer the Purple. 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
48g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Purple, one can see distinct differences in the types of sound profiles they produce. The Lavender's POM top housing creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound, providing a unique auditory experience. On the other hand, the Purple's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to the stiffness of the material. While both materials have their own advantages, the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference for sound aesthetics.
Similarly, the difference in the bottom housing materials of the Lavender and the Purple switches contributes to the overall typing experience. The Lavender's POM bottom housing also produces a deep and pleasing sound profile, while the Purple's nylon bottom housing elicits a fuller and rounder sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller but more satisfying typing experience. Both materials offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel, highlighting the importance of bottom housing material in switch design.
Overall, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in a switch plays a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of typing. While the Lavender and Purple switches may have different housing materials, the impact they have on the typing experience is equally important. The qualities of each material are felt differently when pressing down on a key versus letting go, emphasizing the complexity and nuance that goes into designing a switch for optimal performance. Whether one prefers the deeper, muted sound of POM or the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate, both the Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Purple offer unique typing experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces, with the Lavender being lighter than the Purple. The Lavender has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Purple has an actuation force of 50 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The difference in actuation force between the two switches may result in a slightly different typing experience, with the Lavender requiring slightly less force to trigger a keystroke. When it comes to weight preferences, some may find the lighter actuation force of the Lavender more suitable for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier push feel of the Purple for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter compared to the Outemu Purple tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lavender offers a quicker response time which can be beneficial for gamers looking for speed and precision. On the other hand, the Purple switch provides a more substantial keypress depth for those who prefer a more tactile and satisfying typing experience. Both switches have their own advantages based on personal preference, with the Lavender being the shorter option and the Purple being the longer option in terms of travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize speed or keypress depth in your 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 Purple 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 it comes to sound, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch offers a distinctively clacky experience, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple tactile switch's sound profile is currently unknown. Depending on your preference for a crisp and bright sound, the Lavender may be the more satisfying choice in terms of sound quality.
Moving on to feel, the Lavender switch is acclaimed for its easy-to-press nature, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal force required to activate the keys. This light actuation force reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions, enhancing overall comfort and responsiveness. Although details on the tactile feel of the Outemu Purple switch are unavailable at the moment, if you enjoy a low-impact and responsive typing feel, the Lavender switch may offer a comparable experience.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch stands out for its exceptional smoothness, clacky sound signature, and easy-to-press feel, making it a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Purple tactile switch are currently unknown, if you are looking for a satisfying typing experience with a crisp sound and gentle keypresses, the Lavender switch may be a suitable option to consider for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, consider your preferences for smoothness and sound. If you prioritize a smooth typing experience right out of the box with a crisp and clacky sound signature, the Lavender switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a tactile typing experience with a satisfying tactile bump without any bottom out force, the Purple switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feel and sound you prefer in a mechanical keyboard switch to enhance your overall typing experience.
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