Jerrzi Lotus V2 vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Lotus V2 and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options on the market are the Jerrzi Lotus V2, a linear switch, and the Outemu Crystal Brown, a tactile switch. The Lotus V2 is best known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, making it a favorite among gamers and typists who prefer a linear feel. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown is recognized for its tactile bump and audible feedback, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy feeling the actuation point. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and usage scenarios. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Jerrzi Lotus V2 and the Outemu Crystal Brown, one noticeable difference is the material used for the top housing. The Lotus V2 utilizes a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Crystal Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users, with the POM housing offering a more subdued sound while the polycarbonate housing delivers a more vibrant and pronounced typing sound.
Another point of comparison between the two switches is their bottom housing material. The Lotus V2 utilizes a POM bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and unique sound profile. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown features a nylon bottom housing, known for providing a fuller and more rounded sound profile. The difference in sound characteristics between the two bottom housing materials can affect the overall typing experience, with nylon offering a softer and more absorbent sound compared to the stiffer POM material.
Despite the differences in top and bottom housing materials between the Jerrzi Lotus V2 and the Outemu Crystal Brown, both switches incorporate unique qualities that contribute to their overall sound profile. While the Lotus V2's POM housing creates a pleasing and unique sound with a deeper tone, the Crystal Brown's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the Lotus V2 provides a deeper sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Crystal Brown produces a fuller sound. Overall, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, whether for a muted and unique typing experience or a sharper and more vibrant sound.
Weight
The actuation force of both the Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of initial force required to register a keystroke. However, where they differ is in their bottom out force. The Lotus V2 has an unknown bottom out force, while the Crystal Brown has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is on the medium-light side. This means that the Crystal Brown requires a bit more pressure to fully press the key compared to the Lotus V2, which may result in a more tactile typing experience. In terms of weight, the Lotus V2 is lighter in terms of bottom out force compared to the Crystal Brown, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown provides a slightly heavier feel, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the Lotus V2 has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Crystal Brown's 4 mm. This means that the Lotus V2 will provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers seeking faster reactions. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown offers a slightly deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance. Both switches have their own advantages based on personal preference - those looking for a quick and responsive feel may prefer the Lotus V2, while others may enjoy the more deliberate key press of the Crystal Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing or gaming preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Lotus V2 has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus V2 for $3.59.
The Outemu Crystal Brown 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 Lotus V2 linear switch is known for providing a smooth and quiet typing experience, perfect for those who prefer less noise while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch offers a bit of tactile feedback with a soft bump, resulting in a slight audible sound with each key press. Depending on the keyboard and keycap combination, the Lotus V2 may produce a quieter typing sound overall compared to the Crystal Brown.
In regard to feel, the Lotus V2 linear switch is praised for its consistent linear actuation with a smooth keystroke, making it ideal for fast typists and gamers who enjoy a fluid typing experience. Conversely, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch offers a tactile bump during actuation, providing a more pronounced feedback for those who prefer a bit more resistance and feedback while typing. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, catering to individual preferences in typing feel.
In conclusion, the Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch each have their own unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with a smooth linear actuation, the Lotus V2 may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile bump with each key press and prefer a more pronounced feedback, the Crystal Brown could be the more suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, you should consider the factors that best suit your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch with no bottom out force and are looking for a unique typing experience, the Lotus V2 may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a tactile typing feel, the Crystal Brown switch might be more suitable. Additionally, if you value a specific sound profile in your keyboard switches, consider the sound characteristics of each switch before making your decision. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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