Outemu Lotus vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lotus and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Lotus, a linear switch, and the Gazzew U4T, a tactile switch, it's important to understand the key distinctions between the two. The Lotus is best known for its smooth linear feel, making it ideal for gamers and typists who prefer a consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T stands out for its unique blend of thockiness and sharp tactility, delivering a satisfying bassy 'thock' sound profile with noticeable tactile feedback. While the Lotus is favored for its simplicity and smoothness, the U4T appeals to those seeking a more pronounced typing 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Lotus and the Gazzew U4T both use soft housing materials in their switches to create a deep and rich sound profile. The Lotus utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, while the U4T uses a proprietary Gazzew blend, also known as "boba plastic." Nylon is known for absorbing sound well and creating a duller, rounder sound, resulting in a deeper typing experience. Similarly, the Gazzew blend top housing in the U4T is designed to deliver a rich and deep sound due to its softness, providing a similar typing experience to the Lotus.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Lotus and U4T use soft materials like nylon and the Gazzew blend, respectively. These materials enhance the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, contributing to a fuller typing experience. The use of soft plastics in the bottom housing ensures that the impact of pressing down on a key is felt and heard, creating a satisfying typing sensation. The nylon bottom housing of the Lotus and the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4T both share this quality, supporting a consistent typing experience across both switches.
While the top and bottom housings of the Outemu Lotus and Gazzew U4T differ in material composition, they both aim to provide a similar typing experience through their soft, sound-absorbing properties. The nylon top housing of the Lotus and the Gazzew blend top housing of the U4T each play a crucial role in the switch's sound profile when releasing a key. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings ensures that both switches deliver a deep and rich typing sound, making them both popular choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts who prioritize sound quality in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is evident 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, while the U4T has a bottom out force of 65 grams. The actuation force of the U4T is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Outemu Lotus would be the ideal choice due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may find the Gazzew U4T more to their liking with its higher bottom out force. Overall, the Lotus provides a lighter typing experience compared to the U4T, which offers a medium to heavy typing feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gazzew U4T tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Lotus has a shorter travel distance compared to the U4T. Typically, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for some users. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. Those looking for a quicker, more responsive feel may lean towards the Lotus, while those seeking a more deliberate keystroke may opt for the U4T. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will result in varying typing experiences based on the individual's preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Lotus comes in at $3.10, whereas the Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50.
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 is relatively unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison with the Gazzew U4T tactile switch. However, the U4T is widely recognized for its bassy 'thock' sound profile, which offers a deep and rich sound during key presses. This can add a satisfying auditory element to the typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors like the keyboard housing and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Lotus linear switch does not have a specific feel descriptor provided in the information. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is known for its sharp tactile feedback. These switches have a strong and crisp tactile bump that is distinctly felt with each keystroke, providing a satisfying tactile experience for the user.
Taking all the available information into account, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch appears to offer a unique combination of bassy 'thock' sound and sharp tactile feedback that can enhance both the auditory and tactile aspects of typing. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Lotus switch are not as clearly defined, if its performance characteristics are similar to the U4T, you can expect to achieve comparable results in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, you should consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and feel that best suits your typing preferences. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and a smooth linear keystroke, the Lotus may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy 65-gram bottom out force, along with a bassy 'thock' sound profile and a sharp tactile feedback, the U4T is a fantastic option. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and how you want your typing experience to feel and sound.
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