Outemu Black vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Black and the Durock White Lotus. The Outemu Black is a linear switch, known for its smooth keystrokes without any tactile feedback or audible click. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus is a tactile switch, designed for typists who prefer a more pronounced tactile bump when pressing a key. The White Lotus also offers the added bonus of customizable RGB lighting effects, adding a touch of flair to your keyboard setup. While the Black switch is ideal for those who prefer a straightforward and consistent typing experience, the White Lotus is perfect for users who crave a more tactile feedback while still enjoying the benefits of RGB lighting. 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
65g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Black and the Durock White Lotus switches, the biggest difference lies in the top housing material. The Black features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, especially suitable for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the White Lotus boasts a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, offering a unique and premium feel. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the polycarbonate of the Black may be favored for its clear and resonant qualities, while the White Lotus's top housing may provide a more luxurious typing experience.
On the other hand, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, a classic material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon bottom housing in both switches absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This similarity denotes that the typing experience in terms of sound and feel may be quite similar between the Outemu Black and the Durock White Lotus switches due to their shared bottom housing material.
It is important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials will affect different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, when considering which switch to use, the housing materials of both the Outemu Black and the Durock White Lotus should be taken into account to determine the overall typing experience and sound profile that best suits individual preferences.
Weight
The Outemu Black linear switch has a significantly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Durock White Lotus tactile switch. The Black requires 65 grams of force to actuate and 82 grams to bottom out, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the White Lotus requires only 46 grams of force to actuate and 56 grams to bottom out, making it lighter and more suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. While the Black switch offers a heavier typing experience, the White Lotus provides a lighter and more effortless keystroke, catering to different preferences based on actuation and bottom out force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is equal, both having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that whether you choose the Black or the White Lotus, you can expect a similar feeling when pressing down on the key, as the distance traveled by the switch is the same. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will have a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
The Outemu Black 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 considering the sound characteristics of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, the Outemu Black switch is known for its lack of distinct sound qualities. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switch is described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. The low-pitched nature of the White Lotus switch provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, which can be appealing to users seeking a quieter typing experience. Additionally, the neutral sound profile of the White Lotus switch makes it versatile for various environments, whether at home or in a professional setting.
Moving on to the feel of these two switches, the Outemu Black switch does not have specific descriptions related to its tactile feel. Conversely, the Durock White Lotus switch is characterized as easy-to-press, mild, and subtle. These tactile qualities indicate that the White Lotus switch offers a gentle resistance during presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force contributes to a comfortable and effortless typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. The mild and subtle feel of the White Lotus switch signifies a more relaxed and approachable typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the Outemu Black linear switch may not provide specific sound and feel characteristics, while the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, along with an easy-to-press, mild, and subtle tactile feel. Depending on individual preferences, users seeking a switch with a more pronounced low-pitched sound and light tactile feedback may find the Durock White Lotus switch to be a suitable option. Ultimately, the sound and feel of a switch are subjective qualities that can be influenced by additional factors such as keyboard setup, keycaps, and personal typing style.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Black linear switch or the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and needs. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are not concerned with tactile feedback, the Outemu Black switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you value a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a delicate tactile feel while typing, the Durock White Lotus switch would be more suitable. Additionally, if you appreciate the aesthetic of vibrant RGB lighting effects, the White Lotus switch offers that extra visual appeal. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches depends on your typing style, preferences, and desired typing experience.
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