Bsun Olive vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Bsun Olive and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch stand out for their unique qualities. The Bsun Olive is praised for its resonant and deep sound, thanks to its all-POM housings. It offers a tactile feedback that is sharp and satisfying, with a medium-weight feel that adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus is a linear switch that doesn't boast any specific standout feature. However, it is known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, making it a reliable option for those who prefer a straightforward typing experience. While the Olive switch may be preferred for its pronounced tactile feedback and unique design, the Lotus switch may appeal to those looking for a smoother and more consistent feel. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Olive and the Outemu Lotus are quite similar in terms of the sound profile they create. Both POM and nylon are known for producing a deeper and fuller sound, with POM being described as creating a relatively more muted sound compared to nylon. This means that both switches will give you a satisfying auditory experience, although with slight differences in tone and intensity.
Where the two switches differ is in the material used for their top and bottom housings. The Olive utilizes POM for both top and bottom, while the Lotus uses nylon for both. This may result in a more consistent sound profile throughout the typing experience with the Lotus, as the qualities of the housing material are evenly distributed. On the other hand, the Olive's top and bottom housings may offer slightly varying sound and feel, depending on whether you're pressing down on a key or letting go.
Ultimately, the choice between the Bsun Olive and the Outemu Lotus housing materials comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a more consistent sound profile, the Lotus with its nylon top and bottom housing may be the better option. However, if you enjoy the subtle differences in sound and feel that come with using different materials for top and bottom housings, the Olive's POM construction could be more appealing to you. Both switches offer a unique typing experience with their respective housing materials, providing a deep and engaging sound profile that enhances the overall tactile feedback of each key press.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, it is clear that the Lotus is the lighter option. The Olive has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Lotus has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is considered light. This means that the Lotus will require less force to trigger a keystroke and less force when pressing all the way down compared to the Olive. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the Olive providing a more substantial push feel, and the Lotus offering a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, the Olive has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Lotus's 3.3 mm. While the difference may seem minimal, it can impact the overall feel of the switch when typing or gaming. The Olive's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more deliberate and satisfying keystroke, while the Lotus's shorter travel distance may appeal to users looking for a quicker response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs, ensuring a satisfying typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 Bsun Olive tactile switch is known for delivering a resonant, deep sound due to its all-POM housings. This unique design, along with the long pole stem, provides a crisp bottom-out and a satisfying auditory experience during use. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus linear switch does not have a well-known reputation for its sound profile. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel, the Bsun Olive tactile switch is described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy. These descriptors indicate that the switch provides a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming, but still offers a pronounced feedback and a snappy, responsive feel. This results in an immersive typing sensation that is both satisfying and enjoyable. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the specific feel of the Outemu Lotus linear switch.
Overall, the Bsun Olive tactile switch stands out for its unique sound profile and tactile feel that many users find highly satisfying. While the Outemu Lotus linear switch does not have as much information available, it is important to consider personal preferences and use cases when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, if you prefer a switch with a deep, resonant sound and a pronounced tactile feedback, the Bsun Olive tactile switch may be the better option for you.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with pronounced tactile feedback, an invigorating typing experience, and a resonant, deep sound, then the Bsun Olive switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a smoother linear feel, a lower actuation force, and a quieter typing experience, then the Outemu Lotus switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics to cater to different preferences, so it's important to choose based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you.
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