Outemu Lotus vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lotus and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Lotus and the Bsun Taichi bring unique attributes to the table, despite both being linear switches. The Outemu Lotus is appreciated for its smooth keystrokes, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists seeking a seamless experience without tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi stands out for its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, created through its long-pole stem and extended springs, which not only enhances the auditory experience but also promotes unparalleled smoothness and stability during typing. While both switches cater to different preferences—smoothness with the Lotus and acoustic enjoyment with the Taichi—they ultimately serve distinct purposes based on user experience. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Lotus and the Bsun Taichi, a notable distinction arises from the choice of materials used for their top housings. The Lotus employs a nylon top housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is largely because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder acoustic experience. In contrast, the Taichi utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate, as a stiffer plastic, contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, which enhances the auditory clarity of key presses. This difference in top housing material fundamentally alters the sound characteristics of each switch during use.
Interestingly, both keyboards feature nylon as the material for their bottom housings. This similarity means that both the Lotus and the Taichi will provide a deeper and fuller sound profile when a key is fully depressed, due to nylon's sound-absorbing properties. The impact of the bottom housing on the typing experience is significant, as it directly affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the key presses. Consequently, while the top housings diverge in their contribution to sound dynamics, the bottom housings unify both models in delivering a similar tactile and acoustic response when keys are pressed down.
Ultimately, the key difference in typing experience between the Outemu Lotus and the Bsun Taichi lies in their top housing materials. The crisper and higher-pitched sound from the Taichi’s polycarbonate top versus the rounder, softer sound from the Lotus’s nylon top can create varied auditory experiences for users. However, both switches will evoke similar results when considering the effect of their nylon bottom housings, ensuring that aspects of sound absorption and overall tactile feedback remain consistent across the two models. This nuanced combination of materials enables users to appreciate the distinctions in sound and feel brought about by the varying top housing while enjoying the familiar benefits offered by both switches' nylon bottoms.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Lotus linear switch with the Bsun Taichi linear switch, we can see notable differences in actuation force, with the Lotus being lighter. The Lotus has an actuation force of 35 grams, making it easier to press, which is ideal for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Taichi requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams, providing a sturdier tactile feedback that some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. While the bottom out force of the Lotus is 50 grams, indicating a definitive feel when the key is fully pressed, the bottom out force for the Taichi is unknown, leaving a gap in our comparison for that metric. Overall, users seeking a lighter and more effortless typing experience may favor the Outemu Lotus, while those who appreciate a firmer keystroke may lean toward the Bsun Taichi.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lotus linear switch features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Bsun Taichi linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference makes the Lotus the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that many gamers appreciate for quicker actuation times. In contrast, the Taichi's 3.6 mm travel distance may offer a more substantial keypress experience, appealing to users who prefer a deeper and more pronounced tactile feedback. Therefore, choosing between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference; those who favor speed and responsiveness may lean towards the Outemu Lotus, whereas those who enjoy a fuller depth in their typing experience might opt for the Bsun Taichi.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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 switch has not been particularly highlighted for any specific acoustic quality, making it somewhat of a mystery in this aspect. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi switch is well-known for its distinctive high-pitched bottom-out sound, which is a result of its long-pole stem and extended springs. This sound quality contributes to a unique auditory experience that many enthusiasts find enchanting. However, it's essential to remember that the overall sound profile will also be influenced by the keyboard's construction and the keycaps you choose.
Regarding the feel, there is no specific information available about the tactile experience of the Outemu Lotus switch. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi switch is engineered for smoothness and stability, thanks in part to its walled stems and carefully designed internal mechanics. This attention to detail results in a linear switch that provides a satisfying actuation without any noticeable bumps or resistance, making for a seamless typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Lotus switch lacks defined qualities in both sound and feel, the Bsun Taichi switch stands out for its enchanting acoustic properties and smooth tactile experience. If you're looking for a switch with a notable auditory signature and a fluid feel, the Taichi is a compelling option. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences; if you find the Taichi’s characteristics appealing, you can expect a smoother and more pleasant typing experience from it.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, your choice ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a lighter actuation force and desire a switch that allows for quicker key presses without fatigue during extended typing sessions, the Outemu Lotus is an excellent choice with its 50-gram bottom-out force. However, if you're someone who appreciates a more enchanting and unique auditory experience, along with a smooth and stable feel, the Bsun Taichi’s long-pole stem and extended springs deliver an unmistakable high-pitched bottom-out sound that can elevate your overall typing experience. In essence, if you prioritize ease of use and agility in your keystrokes, lean towards the Lotus; but if you seek a combination of smooth, sensational feedback and an engaging sound profile, the Taichi might be the way to go. Ultimately, it's about aligning your choice with your “feel” and sound preferences to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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