Outemu Lotus vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lotus and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Lotus, a linear switch, to the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, a tactile switch, it is important to consider the unique characteristics of each. The Lotus is best known for its smooth actuation, while the Violet Gold Pro switches offer a medium tactility with a fairly light touch and a neutral sound signature, making them a desirable option for those looking for a balanced typing experience. The Lotus falls under the category of linear switches, whereas the Violet Gold Pro is categorized as a stepped tactile switch. Each switch has its own strengths and advantages, catering to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Lotus and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro both feature nylon bottom housings, which result in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Lotus utilizes a nylon top housing, while the Violet Gold Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Violet Gold Pro creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature, which leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate top housing is preferable for RGB lighting due to its translucency, providing a visually appealing switch option.
Overall, the nylon bottom housing in both the Lotus and the Violet Gold Pro contributes to a similar deep and full sound profile when typing, as nylon's softer nature absorbs sound effectively. However, the difference lies in the top housing material used in each switch. The Lotus's nylon top housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Violet Gold Pro's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. This distinction impacts the overall auditory experience when typing on each switch, with the polycarbonate housing providing a more clear and resonant sound compared to the duller and rounder sound of the nylon housing.
In summary, the choice of housing materials in a mechanical switch can significantly impact the sound profile and overall typing experience. While both the Outemu Lotus and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro feature nylon bottom housings for a deep and full sound, the difference in their top housing materials results in varying sound characteristics. The Lotus's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Violet Gold Pro's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in a switch allows for a nuanced typing experience that caters to individual preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Lotus has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Violet Gold Pro has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and no information available for bottom out force. The lighter actuation force of the Lotus makes it easier for users to type for extended periods of time, which is perfect for work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Violet Gold Pro provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, the Lotus is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Violet Gold Pro is heavier. Both switches offer unique typing experiences based on the force required for activation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it is evident that the Lotus has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Violet Gold Pro's 3.8 mm. The difference may seem minimal, but it can have an impact on the overall typing experience. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Lotus with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a deeper key press may opt for the Violet Gold Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it is important to note that the Lotus switch does not have a specific sound characteristic associated with it, while the Violet Gold Pro switch is known for its neutral sound profile. This neutral sound profile makes the Violet Gold Pro switch a versatile option suitable for a variety of typing environments and preferences. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the two switches, the Outemu Lotus switch does not have a specific feel associated with it, whereas the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switch is described as having a stepped tactile feel. This means that the Violet Gold Pro switch offers a tactile experience with two distinct stages, providing a more nuanced typing sensation compared to switches with a more uniform tactility.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Lotus and Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches have distinct sound and feel characteristics, it is important to consider your personal preferences and typing needs when choosing between them. If sound and feel are important factors in your decision-making process, the neutral sound profile and stepped tactile feel of the Violet Gold Pro switch may be more appealing. However, if these qualities are not as significant for your typing experience, you may find similar results with the Lotus switch. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your individual preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, consider your preference for a light bottom out force and a switch that is best known for None. If you prioritize a medium tactility with a light touch and neutral sound profile, the Violet Gold Pro switches may be the ideal choice for you. Ultimately, the decision will come down to your personal typing preferences and what qualities are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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