Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Purple 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 Purple and the Outemu Lotus. The Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch, providing a satisfying tactile feedback with an audible click sound upon actuation. On the other hand, the Lotus is a linear switch, offering a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump or audible feedback. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences - the Dustproof Purple for those who enjoy the tactile feedback and auditory response, and the Lotus for users who prefer a smoother keystroke without any distractions. 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
55g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Outemu Lotus, we can see that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. However, the top housing materials differ between the two switches, with the Dustproof Purple featuring a polycarbonate top housing and the Lotus featuring a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Purple creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Lotus adds to a deeper and fuller sound profile.
While both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housings, the difference in top housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Purple, with its stiffer plastic properties, creates a clear and resonant sound profile that is accentuated by its translucency for RGB lighting. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Lotus, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound to create a rounder and duller sound profile. This contrast in top housing materials allows for different typing experiences between the two switches, catering to different preferences for sound and feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Dustproof Purple and Outemu Lotus could come down to personal preference in typing experience. The Dustproof Purple's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Lotus's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Whether one prefers a clear and resonant sound or a rounder and duller sound may influence their decision between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, it is clear that there are significant differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Dustproof Purple has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium to heavy switch. On the other hand, the Lotus has a lower actuation force of 35 grams and a lower bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter switch. This means that the Dustproof Purple will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Lotus will offer a lighter and easier typing experience, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, it is clear that the Dustproof Purple has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Lotus' 3.3 mm. The Dustproof Purple offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Lotus falls on the shallower end of the spectrum. Gamers typically opt for shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Lotus a favorable choice for gaming. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Dustproof Purple for its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches boils down to personal preference regarding keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Purple 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 Purple clicky switch is known for its distinct clicky sound, providing a tactile feedback that some users find satisfying. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus linear switch offers a smooth and quiet keystroke, ideal for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. The Dustproof Purple switch will produce a noticeable clicking noise with each keystroke, which can be quite satisfying for some users, while the Lotus switch will offer a smoother and quieter typing experience without any tactile feedback.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Dustproof Purple is known for its tactile bump and audible click, providing a satisfying typing experience for users who enjoy a more pronounced feedback while typing. The Lotus linear switch, on the other hand, offers a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump, making it suitable for those who prefer a linear and consistent typing feel. Users will notice a distinct difference in the typing feel between the two switches, with the Dustproof Purple offering a more tactile and audible experience compared to the smooth and quiet feel of the Lotus switch.
Overall, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a loud and tactile typing experience, the Dustproof Purple switch might be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quiet and smooth typing experience, the Lotus switch would be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel while typing.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force and sound. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and a clicky sound, the Dustproof Purple may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and a linear sound, the Lotus may be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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