Outemu Lotus vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lotus and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the outemu lotus linear switch to the durock sea glass linear switch, it becomes clear that each offers its own unique qualities. The lotus is best known for its simplicity and falls under the category of basic linear switches. On the other hand, the sea glass switch series by durock presents a captivating selection of pastel colors and is praised for its proprietary material blend that results in a distinct typing experience characterized by dryness, wispiness, and airiness while maintaining smoothness. Despite its 62g bottom-out force, the sea glass switches feel weightless and produce a uniquely hollow sound signature. The lotus switch may appeal to those looking for a straightforward linear switch, while the sea glass switch may attract individuals seeking a frictionless, mild, feathery, and easy-to-press typing experience. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Outemu Lotus and Durock Sea Glass both feature nylon in their housing materials, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. However, the Sea Glass stands out with its unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in the top housing, offering a slightly brighter sound profile. This difference in material composition may lead to a nuanced typing experience for users who prefer a specific sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Lotus and Sea Glass utilize nylon to create a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. While the Lotus sticks to nylon for both top and bottom housing, the Sea Glass introduces UHMWPE into the blend for the bottom housing. This unique blend in the Sea Glass's bottom housing may provide users with a different typing feel compared to the Lotus, as the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Lotus and Durock Sea Glass ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. Both switches offer a deep and full sound profile due to their nylon housing materials, but the Sea Glass's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE adds a touch of brightness to the sound. Additionally, the unique composition of the Sea Glass's housing materials may provide a different typing experience compared to the Lotus, with the bottom housing impacting bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound upon key release. Ultimately, users looking for a slightly brighter sound profile and a unique blend of nylon and UHMWPE may prefer the Durock Sea Glass, while those seeking a classic deep and full sound may opt for the Outemu Lotus.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Lotus has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Sea Glass has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Lotus allows for quicker keystrokes, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Sea Glass offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Durock Sea Glass linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In comparison, the Lotus has a shorter travel distance, making it a preferable choice for those seeking a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Sea Glass has a longer travel distance, providing a more substantial feeling when pressing down on the key, which could be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper key press experience. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, so the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference for keypress depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
The Outemu Lotus 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 it comes to sound, the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch offer distinct differences. The Lotus switch's sound profile is currently unknown, while the Sea Glass switch is known for its uniquely hollow sound signature that adds an extra element of character to the typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard you use and the keycaps attached.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Outemu Lotus and Durock Sea Glass switches offer contrasting experiences. While details about the Lotus switch's feel are currently unavailable, the Sea Glass switch is known for its frictionless, mild, feathery, and easy-to-press characteristics. These qualities combine to provide users with a smooth and effortless typing experience that is comfortable for extended periods of use, making it an excellent choice for various typing needs.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Lotus and Durock Sea Glass linear switches bring unique qualities to the table, catering to different preferences and typing styles. While the Lotus switch remains a bit of a mystery in terms of sound and feel, the Sea Glass switch impresses with its distinct hollow sound signature and frictionless, comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference and what specific qualities you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard setup. Rest assured, regardless of your choice, you can expect a satisfying and reliable typing experience from either of these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light linear switch with a bottom out force of 50 grams and are focused on a smooth typing experience, the Outemu Lotus switch would be a great option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, and are interested in a switch with a unique dry, wispy, and airy feel, as well as a weightlessness that defies expectations, the Durock Sea Glass switch would be the ideal choice for you. Both switches offer different characteristics that cater to varying preferences, so ultimately, your decision would depend on what specific typing experience you are looking for.
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