Durock Light Tactile vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear to see the key differences between these two options. The Light Tactile switch from Durock offers a gentle and smooth tactility, providing a pleasant typing experience with a unique sound signature. On the other hand, the Lotus switch from Outemu lacks specific standout features but is categorized as a neutral switch. While the Light Tactile may appeal to those looking for a softer tactile experience, the Lotus may be favored by users who prefer a straightforward linear switch. 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
52g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Lotus, one key difference is the top housing material used. The Light Tactile features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. The use of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Lotus utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, producing a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
Another point of comparison is the bottom housing material of these switches. Both the Light Tactile and the Lotus use nylon for the bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This commonality in bottom housing material ensures that both switches deliver a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile, despite the differences in their top housing materials.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switch. While the Light Tactile and the Outemu Lotus have different top housing materials, the shared nylon bottom housing material ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Light Tactile produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the softer nylon top housing of the Lotus creates a deeper and fuller sound. These contrasting characteristics highlight the importance of housing materials in switch design and the impact they have on the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Durock Light Tactile tactile switch has a higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Lotus linear switch. The Light Tactile has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Lotus has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter switch. The difference in weight between the two switches may impact typing preferences, as some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Lotus for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the heavier feel of the Light Tactile for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, it is evident that the Lotus has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Light Tactile's 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Lotus may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the Light Tactile's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial and satisfying keypress for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches offer different benefits depending on individual preference, but ultimately, the shorter travel distance of the Lotus results in a quicker keystroke, while the Light Tactile offers a more deliberate and tactile typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Its gentle tactility creates a jelly-like sound signature that is pleasant to the ears. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Outemu Lotus linear switch is not available. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Light Tactile switch is known for its mild and polished feel. This switch provides a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users, as it falls within a safe middle-ground zone in terms of its qualities. The polished finish of the switch ensures smooth key travel with reduced friction. Unfortunately, details about the feel of the Outemu Lotus linear switch are not provided.
Overall, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a unique and gentle tactility with a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various users and environments. Its polished feel ensures a smooth typing experience with reduced friction. While information about the Outemu Lotus linear switch is limited in this comparison, it's important to consider all available information when choosing a mechanical keyboard switch to ensure it meets your specific preferences and needs. If you are looking for a switch with similar characteristics to the Durock Light Tactile, you may find that you would get similar results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a gentle tactility with a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Light Tactile would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a linear switch without any tactile feedback, then the Lotus might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of sound and feel you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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