Outemu Lotus vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lotus and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Lotus and the Durock White Lotus stand out as unique options with distinct advantages. The Outemu Lotus is a linear switch, offering a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus is a tactile switch, designed specifically for typists who appreciate a light and delicate tactility while typing. The White Lotus switches also feature a removable light column, allowing for customizable RGB lighting effects to enhance the overall typing experience. While the Outemu Lotus may be preferred for its simplicity and ease of use, the Durock White Lotus excels in offering a satisfying tactile feel and customizable RGB lighting options. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Lotus and the Durock White Lotus utilize nylon in their top housing material, which results in a deep and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for absorbing sound effectively due to its softer composition, creating a rounder and muffled sound. This material choice enhances the typing experience on both switches, providing a premium feel to the user.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. While the Lotus uses nylon for this component as well, the Durock White Lotus features a modified PC & UPE Blend bottom housing. This unique blend offers a different feel and sound profile compared to nylon, potentially resulting in a crisper and more distinct typing experience. The split between the bottom and top housing materials allows for a dynamic range of sensations while typing on these switches.
Overall, the Outemu Lotus and the Durock White Lotus offer similar sound profiles due to their shared use of nylon in the top housing. However, the modified PC & UPE Blend bottom housing on the Durock White Lotus may provide a slightly different typing experience compared to the Outemu Lotus. Both switches prioritize sound absorption and premium feel, making them desirable choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it is evident that the Lotus is lighter in both aspects. The Outemu Lotus has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Durock White Lotus has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams. The Outemu Lotus provides a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer less resistance when typing for extended periods. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus offers a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force, giving a more substantial typing experience to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Durock White Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the White Lotus tactile switch the longer of the two. A travel distance of 4 mm is more traditional, offering a deeper key press sensation compared to the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Outemu Lotus. Gamers seeking faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Outemu Lotus, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may gravitate towards the Durock White Lotus. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of key press depth and response sensitivity.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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
The Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. In terms of sound, the White Lotus switch is described as having a low-pitched and neutral profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Lotus switch is not specified, but it is likely to have a different acoustic characteristic based on its linear design. When it comes to feel, the White Lotus is known for being easy-to-press, offering light actuation force and a responsive typing experience that can reduce finger fatigue during extended use. The Outemu Lotus switch's feel is not detailed, but linear switches typically provide a smooth and consistent typing experience without any tactile feedback.
Overall, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch stands out for its delicate tactility and luminous RGB lighting effects, making it a great option for those who prioritize a light tactile typing experience and aesthetic customization. In contrast, the Outemu Lotus linear switch may appeal to users looking for a straightforward and smooth typing feel without tactile feedback. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them ultimately depends on individual typing preferences and priorities in terms of sound, feel, and visual aesthetics. Ultimately, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different qualities, ensuring users will get similar results depending on their preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter touch, the Lotus with 50 grams bottom out force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer feel, the White Lotus with 56 grams bottom out force could be more suitable. Additionally, if you value a delicate tactility and RGB lighting effects, the White Lotus offers a unique typing experience with its exquisite design. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and whether you prioritize a lighter touch or a bit more resistance in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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