Outemu Lotus vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lotus and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Lotus and the KTT Strawberry offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Lotus is a linear switch that is best known for its unique design and smooth performance. On the other hand, the Strawberry is also a linear switch known for its attractive pink and clear housings, smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. The Lotus is categorized as linear, while the Strawberry is categorized as Low-pitched, Frictionless, Silky, Buttery, and Polished. If you're looking for a traditional linear switch with smooth performance, the Lotus may be your best bet. However, if you prefer a switch with a more unique design and a comfortable feel, the Strawberry could be the one for you. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Lotus and the KTT Strawberry, it is clear that they each offer unique sound profiles due to their different properties. The Lotus's nylon top and bottom housings provide a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to nylon's softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. On the other hand, the Strawberry's polycarbonate top and bottom housings create a sharper, crisper sound with a higher pitch due to polycarbonate's stiffer plastic composition, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound profile. While both materials offer distinct sound characteristics, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired sound experience.
Despite the differences in sound profiles produced by the nylon and polycarbonate housing materials of the Outemu Lotus and the KTT Strawberry, they share some similarities in their overall composition. Both nylon and polycarbonate are popular switch housing materials known for their durability and reliability. Additionally, both materials offer a level of transparency, with clear housings allowing for RGB lighting effects to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. While the sound profiles may vary between the two materials, users can expect consistent performance and durability from switches featuring either nylon or polycarbonate housings.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Lotus and the KTT Strawberry housing materials comes down to personal preferences in sound profiles and typing experience. The Lotus's nylon housing provides a deeper, fuller sound with a softer touch, ideal for those seeking a more muted and rounded sound profile. In contrast, the Strawberry's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper, crisper sound with a higher pitch, perfect for users who prefer a clearer and more resonant typing experience. Whether you prioritize sound quality, durability, or aesthetics, both switches offer reliable performance and can enhance the overall typing experience based on the unique properties of their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it is clear that the Lotus is lighter in both aspects. The Lotus has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option. On the other hand, the Strawberry has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it a heavier option compared to the Lotus. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Lotus would be the ideal choice. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push, the Strawberry would be more suited to their preferences. Ultimately, the difference in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches allows for a variety of options for users to choose from based on their specific typing preferences.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it slightly shorter than the KTT Strawberry linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lotus offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch provides a more substantial depth when pressed, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Lotus being on the shorter end and the Strawberry on the longer end. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Lotus comes in at $3.10, whereas the KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91.
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 Lotus switch does not have a well-known sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is praised for its low-pitched sound, which typically offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard case, plate material, keycap material, and typing technique.
Moving on to the feel, the Lotus switch lacks a specific description of its tactile experience. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry switch is described as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished. These qualities contribute to an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The switch offers a fluid travel, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel and providing a seamless, uniform typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Lotus and KTT Strawberry switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Lotus switch lacks specific characteristics in sound and feel, the KTT Strawberry switch is known for its low-pitched sound and smooth, frictionless typing experience. Both switches may provide a pleasant typing experience, but based on the available information, the KTT Strawberry switch seems to offer a more refined and enjoyable typing feel. Ultimately, personal preference will play a significant role in determining which switch better suits an individual's typing style and preference.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, consider your preference for actuation force. If you prefer a lighter touch, the Lotus with a bottom out force of 50 grams may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force, the Strawberry with a bottom out force of 62 grams may be the better option. Moreover, if you value a smooth and frictionless typing experience, the Strawberry, with its reputation for smooth actuation and comfortable feel, may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prioritize a switch with a low-pitched sound profile, the Lotus may be more appealing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing preferences and priorities to ensure the best typing experience possible.
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