Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Lotus. The Dustproof Blue switch is a clicky switch known for its tactile feedback and audible click sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus is a linear switch that provides a smooth keystroke without the tactile bump or audible click. Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preferences and typing style. The Dustproof Blue may be preferred for those who enjoy the audible feedback and precise actuation, while the Lotus may be more suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience with a smoother key press. 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
50g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Lotus both have polycarbonate top housings, giving them a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile perfect for those who want a clear and resonant typing experience. However, the Dustproof Blue's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a nice balance between the two housing materials. In contrast, the Lotus features a nylon bottom housing as well, emphasizing a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material might result in a slightly different typing experience between the two switches.
Both the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Lotus share the use of nylon for their bottom housings, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softness and sound absorption qualities. However, while the Dustproof Blue's polycarbonate top housing provides a clear and resonant sound perfect for RGB lighting, the Lotus's nylon top housing gives off a deeper and fuller sound that may appeal to those looking for a more muffled and subdued typing experience. This contrast in top housing material highlights the different sound profiles each switch offers, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Overall, the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Lotus showcase how the combination of different housing materials can impact the typing experience. While the Dustproof Blue with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing offers a balance between sharpness and depth in sound, the Lotus with nylon top and bottom housing leans towards a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches provide unique sound characteristics that can cater to different preferences, making them both appealing options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a specific typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch have noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Dustproof Blue has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Lotus has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option. The Dustproof Blue provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Lotus offers a lighter touch, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two switches when compared to the Outemu Lotus linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Dustproof Blue offers a more traditional typing experience with a deeper travel distance, which may be preferred by those who prefer a more substantial key press feel. On the other hand, the Lotus linear switch provides a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers or those seeking a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with the Dustproof Blue offering a longer travel distance for a more pronounced typing experience, while the Lotus provides a shorter travel distance for quicker key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Dustproof Blue and Lotus.
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
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is known for its loud and satisfying click sound when typing, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus linear switch is known for its smooth and silent keystrokes, providing a quieter typing experience overall. When it comes to feel, the Dustproof Blue switch has a tactile bump and crisp actuation, giving typists a responsive and tactile typing experience. In contrast, the Lotus switch has a linear actuation with no tactile bump, providing a smooth and consistent keystroke feel. Overall, if you prefer a clicky and tactile typing experience, the Dustproof Blue switch is a great choice, while the Lotus switch is ideal for those who prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience. Keep in mind that the ultimate typing experience will also depend on factors such as the keyboard layout, typing style, and personal preference.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, it ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and enjoy the audible feedback it provides, then the Dustproof Blue may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and lighter linear switch with a bottom out force of 50 grams, the Lotus may be more suitable for you. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and actuation force when making your decision, and try to test out both switches if possible to see which one feels best for your typing needs. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make based on what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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