Outemu Lotus vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lotus and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Lotus and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches that offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Lotus is best known for its smooth actuation, while the Zero Degree 0° stands out with Gateron's revolutionary self-padding design and dual-rail structure that provides unmatched smoothness, stability, and a quiet typing experience. The Lotus is categorized as a budget-friendly switch, whereas the Zero Degree 0° is categorized as a premium switch. Choosing between these switches will ultimately depend on individual preferences and typing needs; however, let’s dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can make the best decision for your optimal switch.
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
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Lotus and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° housing materials serve different purposes in creating unique sound profiles for mechanical switches. The Lotus utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° incorporates a polycarbonate top housing that results in a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. While the Lotus offers a more rounded sound, the Zero Degree 0° delivers a more resonant and clear sound, especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting due to polycarbonate's translucency.
On the other hand, both the Lotus and the Zero Degree 0° share nylon as the material for their bottom housing. This commonality means that both switches provide a similar deep and full sound profile, as nylon's softer nature absorbs sound effectively to create a duller yet satisfying sound experience. By incorporating nylon in the bottom housing, both switches ensure a consistent sound quality across all keystrokes while offering a comfortable and satisfying typing experience for users.
The distinction between the top and bottom housing materials of the Outemu Lotus and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° highlights how each component contributes to the overall sound profile of a mechanical switch. The properties of nylon in the bottom housing affect the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, providing a deeper and fuller sound experience. On the other hand, the top housing material, whether nylon or polycarbonate, influences the sound when releasing a key, with nylon offering a duller sound and polycarbonate delivering a sharper and more resonant tone. Ultimately, the choice between these two housing materials depends on the desired sound profile and typing experience that users seek in their mechanical switches.
Weight
The Outemu Lotus linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams compared to the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Lotus requires 50 grams to fully press down, while the force needed for the Zero Degree 0° is unknown. The difference in actuation force means that the Lotus will require less pressure to register a keypress, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Zero Degree 0° may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing feedback. Both switches have their advantages depending on individual preferences, with the Lotus being lighter and the Zero Degree 0° potentially offering a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Lotus has a shorter travel distance compared to the Zero Degree 0° switch. The 0.3 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Lotus with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Zero Degree 0° switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer a different typing experience, but both can provide satisfying results based on the user's needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, the sound profile of the Lotus is relatively unknown, whereas the Zero Degree 0° is praised for its revolutionary silent typing experience due to its self-padding design and dual-rail structure that absorb sound and reduce noise. This means that users can expect a quieter typing experience with the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch compared to the Outemu Lotus.
In terms of feel, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Lotus linear switch are not well-documented, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° is known for delivering unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel. This indicates that users may experience a smoother and more stable keystroke with the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch compared to the Outemu Lotus.
Overall, based on the available information, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch appears to excel in both sound reduction and typing feel when compared to the Outemu Lotus linear switch. However, individual preferences can vary, so it's important for newcomers to test out both switches to see which one aligns best with their typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches may provide a similarly enjoyable typing experience depending on the user's specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, you should consider the bottom out force and unique features of each switch. If you prefer a light 50 gram bottom out force, the Lotus may be the better choice for you. However, if you are looking for a revolutionary silent typing experience with a self-padding design and dual-rail structure for unparalleled smoothness and noise reduction, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch would be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel, sound, and the specific features offered by each switch. Choose wisely based on what best suits your typing style and needs.
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