Outemu Lotus vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lotus and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Lotus, a linear switch, and the TTC Silent Red, also a linear switch, they both offer a smooth typing experience. However, the Lotus is best known for its unique characteristics, while the Silent Red stands out for its muted sound profile that makes it ideal for office or shared living space use. The Lotus is categorized as smooth, while the Silent Red falls into the categories of buttery, mild, muted, and polished. If you're looking for a switch that provides a smooth and seamless typing experience, the Lotus may be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet typing experience and maximum comfort, the Silent Red might be the switch for you. 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
35g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Lotus and the TTC Silent Red, we can see that they both use nylon for the bottom housing. This means that users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on either of these switches, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that is especially noticeable when bottoming out the key. However, in terms of the top housing, the Lotus features a nylon material while the Silent Red boasts a polycarbonate top housing. This key difference in materials will lead to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in the Silent Red, as polycarbonate is stiffer and creates a more clear and resonant sound. The Lotus, on the other hand, will provide a softer and more absorbing sound due to its nylon top housing.
While both the Lotus and the Silent Red utilize nylon in their bottom housing, the choice of material for the top housing sets them apart in terms of sound profile. The Lotus's nylon top housing emphasizes a deeper and fuller typing experience, with the softer plastic absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the Silent Red's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffness and ability to produce higher pitches. This difference in top housing material results in distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences. Additionally, the Clear polycarbonate material used in the Silent Red's top housing allows for RGB lighting effects, adding a visual element to the typing experience that the Lotus does not offer with its opaque nylon top housing.
In conclusion, while the bottom housings of the Outemu Lotus and the TTC Silent Red share the same nylon material, their top housings set them apart in terms of sound characteristics. The Lotus provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its nylon top housing, which absorbs sound and creates a duller, rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the Silent Red's polycarbonate top housing results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound that is more resonant and clear. Users looking for a softer, more absorbing sound may prefer the Lotus, while those seeking a sharper and more distinct sound may opt for the Silent Red. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and whether RGB lighting effects are desired.
Weight
The Outemu Lotus linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a good choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. The actuation force of the Lotus and the Silent Red differ, with the Lotus being lighter. However, both switches have similar bottom out forces, with the Silent Red being slightly heavier. Depending on personal preference, some may enjoy the lighter actuation force of the Lotus for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier feel of the Silent Red for a more solid typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing styles and preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that the Lotus has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Silent Red has a longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may opt for the Lotus with its shorter travel distance, as it allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial keypress experience may lean towards the Silent Red with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Lotus offering a more responsive feel and the Silent Red providing a more deliberate keypress.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Lotus linear switch doesn't have a specific reputation but is known to offer a standard mechanical keyboard sound. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is well-regarded for its muted sound profile. The Silent Red switch produces a softer and quieter sound compared to other mechanical switches, making it a great choice for environments where noise is a concern. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Lotus switch doesn't have a distinct quality associated with it. In contrast, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is often described as buttery, mild, and polished. A buttery switch implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The mild characteristic of the Silent Red switch offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch contributes to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, if you're looking for a linear switch that prioritizes a quiet typing experience, the TTC Silent Red switch is the way to go. With its muted sound profile and buttery, mild, and polished feel, it offers a smooth and comfortable typing experience ideal for office or shared living spaces. On the other hand, if you prefer a more standard sound profile and are open to exploring different feels, the Outemu Lotus linear switch can provide a reliable and consistent typing experience. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer linear operation with different subjective qualities that cater to varying preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a switch that provides a light and smooth typing experience, the Outemu Lotus linear switch with its 50-gram bottom out force would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a muted sound profile for a quieter typing experience, the TTC Silent Red linear switch with its 63.5-gram bottom out force would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for key feel and sound profile. Whether you prioritize a light and consistent feel like the Lotus or a buttery and quiet typing experience like the Silent Red, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Choose the switch that best aligns with your typing style and environment.
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