Outemu Crystal Brown vs. Durock White Lotus

Overview

When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Durock White Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are tactile switches, you have a few key considerations to make. The Crystal Brown switch is best known for its tactile feedback. On the other hand, the White Lotus switch stands out for its light and delicate tactility, making it perfect for those who value a smooth typing experience. While the Crystal Brown switch offers a traditional tactile feel, the White Lotus switch takes it a step further by providing a more subtle and refined tactility, perfect for extended typing sessions. The Crystal Brown switch is categorized as traditional tactile, while the White Lotus switch is classified as easy-to-press, low-pitched, mild, neutral, and subtle. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Crystal Brown Tactile

Durock White Lotus Tactile

$3.10 per 10

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Durock White Lotus switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. The Crystal Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. On the other hand, the White Lotus utilizes a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, offering a premium feel and potentially a different sound experience. Both switches use a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. Overall, the differences in housing materials between the two switches can result in distinct typing experiences.

Despite the variations in housing materials, both the Crystal Brown and the White Lotus switches offer a similar typing experience due to the presence of nylon bottom housings. The softer nature of nylon allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience by utilizing this classic switch housing material in the bottom housing. Ultimately, users can expect a consistent sound profile and overall feel when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings, regardless of the differences in top housing materials between the Crystal Brown and the White Lotus.

When considering the impact of different housing materials on a switch, it's important to note how each material affects the sound profile and typing feel. The bottom housing of a switch, such as the nylon housing in both the Crystal Brown and the White Lotus, plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the top housing, whether polycarbonate or a modified PC & UPE Blend, can influence the sound when releasing a key. By understanding the qualities of each housing material and how they contribute to the overall typing experience, users can choose a switch that aligns with their preferences for sound and feel.

Weight

The Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Durock White Lotus tactile switch has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-light category in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The Crystal Brown is slightly lighter in both aspects compared to the White Lotus, although the difference is minimal. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Crystal Brown may be the better option, while those who enjoy a slightly more substantial push feel may prefer the White Lotus. Ultimately, both switches provide a similar typing experience due to their comparable actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

Both the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience a consistent distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that the typing experience with these switches will feel equally satisfying in terms of travel distance. The fact that both switches have the same travel distance allows for a seamless transition between the two, as you will get similar results regardless of which switch you choose to use. This uniformity in travel distance makes both the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Durock White Lotus tactile switches reliable options for those looking for consistent typing feedback.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch is known for a neutral sound profile, which is versatile and suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switch presents a low-pitched sound that leans towards a bass-heavy and mellow tone, creating a soothing auditory experience while typing. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch's tactile characteristics are not specified, whereas the Durock White Lotus switch offers an easy-to-press feel with a mild and subtle tactility. These attributes contribute to a typing experience that is gentle, responsive, and comfortable, making it ideal for long typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. The White Lotus switch strikes a balance between a gentle typing experience and a light actuation force, providing a pleasant sensation with every keystroke.

In conclusion, while the Outemu Crystal Brown and Durock White Lotus switches differ in sound and feel qualities, they both offer unique advantages for users seeking a tactile typing experience. The Crystal Brown switch provides a neutral sound profile and tactile feel, suitable for a wide range of preferences. In contrast, the White Lotus switch delivers a low-pitched sound and easy-to-press feel, enhancing the typing experience with its subtle tactility and vibrant RGB lighting effects. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics in a mechanical keyboard setup.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it all comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you are looking for a medium-light switch with a bottom out force of 55 grams and a more neutral sound profile, the Crystal Brown may be the choice for you. However, if you prefer a switch with a bottom out force of 56 grams, a delicate tactility, and a light and easy-to-press feel with vibrant RGB lighting effects, then the Durock White Lotus is the way to go. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics and advantages, so consider your typing needs and preferences carefully before making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Crystal Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Durock White Lotus Tactile

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more