Durock Medium Tactile vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Lotus offer distinct experiences for users. The Durock Medium Tactile is praised for its pronounced yet balanced tactility, providing a satisfying typing experience with a jelly-like sound signature. This switch falls into categories such as 'Accented', 'Stepped', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus is a linear switch that does not have any specific standout features mentioned. While the Durock Medium Tactile may appeal to those seeking a tactile typing experience, the Outemu Lotus may cater to users looking for 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
N/A
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Lotus, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than stiffer plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, making it a common choice for switch housing materials. Despite both switches using nylon for their bottom housing, the Medium Tactile stands out with its polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Lotus's nylon top housing. This difference in top housing material leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile in the Medium Tactile.
In terms of aesthetics, the Durock Medium Tactile's polycarbonate top housing offers the advantage of being translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. This allows users to customize the appearance of their switches with various lighting options, adding a visual element to the tactile feedback of the switch. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus's nylon top housing may not offer the same level of customization for RGB lighting, but it does provide a deeper and fuller sound profile for a different typing experience. The choice between the two housing materials ultimately depends on whether the user prioritizes visual customization or a specific sound profile in their switch.
Overall, while both the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Lotus utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the choice of material for the top housing sets them apart in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Medium Tactile's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while also allowing for RGB lighting customization. In contrast, the Lotus's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, catering to users who prefer a different typing experience. Regardless of these differences, both switches are designed to provide a tactile and satisfying typing experience, with the choice of housing material influencing the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, we see a distinct difference in weight. The Medium Tactile has no specified actuation force and a bottom out force of 65 grams, putting it in the medium-heavy category. On the other hand, the Lotus has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option. This indicates that the Lotus requires a lighter touch to activate a keystroke compared to the Medium Tactile. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Lotus for extended typing sessions, while others may enjoy the more substantial feel of the Medium Tactile's heavier bottom out force for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Durock Medium Tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer travel option compared to the Outemu Lotus switch, which has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The 0.7 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can make a difference in the typing experience for some users. The Medium Tactile switch will provide a slightly deeper key press compared to the Lotus switch. However, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Lotus offering a slightly shallower option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style - those who prefer a deeper, more deliberate key press may lean towards the Durock Medium Tactile, while those looking for a shallower, quicker response may prefer the Outemu Lotus.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium 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 Medium 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 Medium Tactile switch is known for its jelly-like sound signature, providing a unique auditory experience. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Outemu Lotus switch are not specified, so it is difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. However, it is important to consider that the sound produced by a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is described as having an accented, stepped, mild, and polished tactile experience. This means that it offers a balanced tactile feedback that is not overly pronounced or subtle, providing a comfortable typing experience. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available on the tactile feel of the Outemu Lotus switch, making it challenging to directly compare it to the Medium Tactile switch in terms of tactile feedback.
Overall, the Durock Medium Tactile switch offers a unique jelly-like sound signature and a balanced tactile experience that is described as accented, stepped, mild, and polished. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Lotus switch are not explicitly outlined, it is important to consider personal preferences and typing preferences when choosing between the two switches. Ultimately, both switches may provide a satisfactory typing experience, but it is recommended to try them out personally to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a pronounced yet balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, then the Durock Medium Tactile would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter linear switch with a bottom out force of 50 grams and a smooth typing experience, then the Outemu Lotus linear switch would be the better option. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and your typing preferences when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique qualities and it is important to choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
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