Outemu Lotus vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lotus and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Lotus and the Dareu Snow mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches offering a smooth typing experience. The Lotus is a linear switch that is best known for its sleek design and straightforward keypress, making it ideal for those who prefer a simple and precise typing experience. On the other hand, the Snow switch stands out with its innovative use of POK material for both the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature and a bouncier feel while typing. The Snow switch is also categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy', offering a unique typing experience for those looking for a switch with these qualities. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Lotus and Dareu Snow both utilize different housing materials for their switches, with the Lotus using a nylon top and bottom housing while the Snow utilizes a POK top and nylon bottom housing. The Lotus's nylon housing is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic, which absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Snow's POK material is praised for its smoothness, durability, and shock resistance, contributing to a smooth and clacky typing experience. While both materials offer unique benefits, they cater to different qualities such as sound profile and durability.
Despite their differences, the nylon material in both the Lotus and Snow's bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. The softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. However, when comparing the top housing materials, the Lotus's nylon top housing and Snow's POK top housing offer contrasting benefits. The Lotus's nylon top housing provides a deeper sound profile, while the Snow's POK top housing focuses on smoothness and durability, resulting in a clacky typing experience.
In terms of overall typing experience, the combination of housing materials in the Lotus and Snow impacts the sound and feel of the switches differently. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials, with the Lotus providing a deeper sound profile due to its nylon housing, while the Snow focuses on smoothness and durability with its POK material. Overall, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Outemu Lotus linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams compared to the Dareu Snow linear switch which has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Lotus is also lighter at 50 grams, while the Snow has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Lotus more suitable, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Snow, as it offers a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force. Both switches provide a different typing experience based on the force required, so users should consider their preferences before making a selection.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when typing on a keyboard with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent key press feel due to the same travel distance. This similarity ensures that users will get similar results in terms of key travel and actuation. Overall, both switches offer a moderate travel distance that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort for the user. Despite being identical in this regard, the Outemu Lotus and Dareu Snow linear switches may differ in other aspects such as actuation force and sound profile.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 Lotus switch has a yet-to-be-determined profile, while the Snow switch is known for its thocky, neutral, and low-pitched sound characteristics. This means that typing on the Snow switch will provide a deeper and more satisfying sound experience compared to the Lotus switch, which may have a different sound profile depending on other factors.
Moving on to feel, the Lotus switch has a feel that has not been specified, whereas the Snow switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with lively rebound when keys are pressed. This bouncy feel can enhance the typing experience by giving users a more tactile and responsive feel compared to switches with different feedback mechanisms.
In conclusion, the Outemu Lotus and Dareu Snow linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lotus switch has yet-to-be-determined sound and feel profiles, while the Snow switch is known for its deep thocky sound signature and bouncy feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound depth and tactile feedback, users will need to consider these differences when choosing between the two switches. Overall, both switches can provide a satisfactory typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of performance and functionality, regardless of the choice they make.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences and needs. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force at 50 grams and are looking for a switch with a standard reputation, the Lotus may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force at 60 grams and are interested in a switch with POK material for a unique sound profile, the Snow might be the switch to go for. The Snow switch is also known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, as well as its bouncy feel, making it a suitable option for those who enjoy a deeper typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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