Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, one's preferences can significantly impact the typing experience. On one hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch stands out for its clicky feedback; while not explicitly detailed, clicky switches are typically loved for their satisfying auditory response, making them a popular choice for gamers and typists who enjoy tactile and audible confirmation of key presses. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switch caters to those seeking a more subtle yet gratifying typing experience. Known for its gentle tactility, the White Lotus offers an exquisite balance designed for prolonged use without overwhelming the typist. This switch also features a removable light column, enhancing the visual appeal of your keyboard through vibrant RGB lighting that can complement any setup. Ultimately, both options cater to distinct typing styles: the Dustproof Blue for users who crave audible feedback and the White Lotus for those prioritizing a serene and illuminated typing experience. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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 Dustproof Blue and the Durock White Lotus, notable distinctions can be found in their top housing compositions. The Dustproof Blue features a polycarbonate top that is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, thanks to its stiffer nature. This stiffness results in a clearer and more resonant sound, making it particularly effective for RGB lighting setups due to its translucency. Conversely, the White Lotus employs a modified blend of polycarbonate and UPE, which grants it a unique and premium feel. While both top housing materials are plastic-based, the inclusion of UPE in the White Lotus adds a layer of complexity that may influence the overall tactile experience and sound output, making it distinct from the more straightforward polycarbonate option in the Dustproof Blue.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Durock White Lotus share a common material: nylon. This classic switch housing choice delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and contributing to a duller, rounder auditory experience. As both switches utilize nylon for their bottoms, users can expect a similarity in the sound characteristics when typing, which enhances the overall performance of each switch. Given that the bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, both the Dustproof Blue and White Lotus are likely to create a satisfying experience regarding keypress depth and sound when bottomed out.
Combining the distinct characteristics of the top housings with the shared nylon bottom housings leads to different acoustic properties for each switch. The Dustproof Blue, with its polycarbonate top, should provide a crisper sound upon key release, while the Durock White Lotus might offer a more subdued yet refined exit sound due to its modified top housing blend. However, the nylon bottom in both switches will unify the deeper auditory profile experienced in their keystrokes, ultimately allowing for a rich typing experience regardless of the variations in the top housing materials. Thus, users could selectively choose between the two based on whether they prefer a sharper or more premium tactile experience while still receiving consistency in bottom-out feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch to the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, we can see notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Dustproof Blue has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which provides a more substantial push feel that some typists and gamers may prefer for its tactile response. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus is lighter with an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, making it ideal for those who favor a lighter touch and longer typing sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, the Dustproof Blue is the heavier option, while the White Lotus is the lighter one, appealing to different user needs based on their typing and gaming habits.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch feature a travel distance of 4 mm. This equal measurement indicates that users can expect similar actuation experiences when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. The travel distance plays a crucial role in how the switches feel during typing, and with both switches measuring the same, they should provide comparable results in terms of key response and overall feel.
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 Dustproof Blue 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
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch does not have a clearly defined sound profile provided, leaving an uncertainty in comparing its auditory qualities. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is characterized by its low-pitched and neutral sound, which creates a mellow and bass-heavy tone. The neutral sound profile makes it versatile for various environments, whether at home or work. This distinction suggests that while the Outemu's sound is unknown, the White Lotus offers a more calming and unobtrusive auditory experience, which is favorable in shared spaces or professional settings.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch lacks specific descriptive qualities, making it difficult to ascertain its typing experience. In contrast, the White Lotus switches provide a unique tactile sensation, being easy to press with a gentle actuation force that minimizes finger strain during prolonged use. They are classified as mild and subtle, offering a soft and responsive typing experience. This makes the White Lotus well-suited for typists seeking comfort and efficiency, particularly during lengthy typing sessions. While the Dustproof Blue's tactile feel remains a mystery, the White Lotus clearly targets an enjoyable and low-impact typing experience.
In summary, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and Durock White Lotus tactile switch have notable differences in sound and feel. The White Lotus stands out with its low-pitched, neutral sound and a carefully calibrated tactile response that prioritizes comfort and ease of use. Without defined qualities for the Dustproof Blue, it's challenging to fully gauge its performance against the White Lotus, which excels in providing a tranquil typing experience. Ultimately, if you seek a keyboard switch that fosters a pleasant auditory and tactile environment, the Durock White Lotus is an excellent choice, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue remains an enigma in comparison.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a more substantial feel and can handle a heavier key press, the Dustproof Blue, with its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams, may be suitable for you—especially if you like the tactile feedback that punctuates each keystroke. This switch is likely to appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced, traditional typing experience and don't mind the distinct sound that comes with it. On the other hand, if you're looking for a gentler touch along with a versatile and quieter typing experience, the Durock White Lotus would be your best bet. With its lower 56-gram actuation force and low-pitched sound profile, you’ll benefit from an easy-to-press feel that reduces finger fatigue, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or professional environments. Additionally, the White Lotus excels in aesthetics with its removable light column that enhances your keyboard with stunning RGB effects. Ultimately, consider your workspace, how long you'll be typing, and whether sound or feel is more important to you when making your decision.