Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both switches offer unique qualities catering to different preferences. The MX Silent Red is a linear switch that mirrors the classic features of the MX Red but operates silently, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Its 'Muted', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched' and 'Textured' characteristics provide a satisfying typing experience with reduced noise levels. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus is also a linear switch, however, it lacks a specific standout feature and falls under an uncategorized classification. If you are looking for a linear switch that prioritizes silence, the MX Silent Red is a great choice. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Lotus switches are both made of nylon, which is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in housing material suggests that both switches may offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
However, the difference in the top and bottom housings of these switches can impact the overall typing experience. The qualities of the nylon housing material in the bottom housing of a switch will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing will have more of an impact on the sound when a key is released. This distinction highlights how the placement of the housing material within the switch can affect different aspects of the typing experience.
Overall, the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Lotus switches share the characteristic of using nylon for their housing material, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. While the placement of the housing material in the switches may differ, the use of nylon ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality and feel. Whether it be the top or bottom housing, the nylon material in these switches plays a crucial role in providing a consistent and satisfying typing experience for users.
Weight
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Lotus linear switch, which has an actuation force of 35 grams. The bottom out force of the Lotus is 50 grams, while the bottom out force of the MX Silent Red is not specified. In terms of weight, the Lotus switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Lotus switch, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may choose the MX Silent Red switch, as it offers a higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Lotus switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the MX Silent Red switch. The shorter travel distance of the Lotus switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the MX Silent Red switch may provide a more substantial feeling when typing. Both switches offer benefits depending on individual preferences, with the Lotus switch offering a quicker response and the MX Silent Red switch providing a more traditional typing experience with a bit more depth. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches comes down to personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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
Both the MX Silent Red and the Outemu Lotus are linear switches, providing a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump. The MX Silent Red is well-known for its muted, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, making it a great option for those looking for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Lotus is unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
When it comes to feel, the MX Silent Red is described as having a textured feel, which may provide a different typing experience compared to smoother switches. The Lotus, however, does not have any specific information available regarding its feel. As a result, it is unclear how the Lotus linear switch would compare in terms of the tactile experience it offers.
Overall, if you are seeking a quieter typing experience with a slightly textured feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch would be a reliable choice. However, if the sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Lotus linear switch are of interest to you, further research or hands-on experience may be necessary to determine how it compares to the Cherry MX Silent Red. Remember, personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, so don't hesitate to try out different options to find the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, ultimately, when deciding between the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, you would want to choose the MX Silent Red if you are looking for a switch that provides a slightly heftier feel but operates silently, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. The MX Silent Red offers a satisfying typing experience with a significantly quieter sound profile. On the other hand, you would want to choose the Lotus if you prefer a light bottom out force of 50 grams. Overall, the MX Silent Red is best known for its muted, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, while the Lotus does not have specific characteristics in sound or feel. Ultimately, consider your preferences for typing experience and noise level when selecting between these two switches.
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