Outemu Purple vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Outemu Purple and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Purple and the Durock White Lotus both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Purple switch is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying typing experience for users who enjoy a noticeable bump when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switch is renowned for its delicate tactility, offering a more subtle typing sensation that is perfect for extended typing sessions without overwhelming the user. Additionally, the White Lotus switch allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, adding a touch of flair to your keyboard setup. While both switches have their own advantages, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
50g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
The Outemu Purple and Durock White Lotus switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a clear and resonant sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing enhances the sound and aesthetics of the switch, making it ideal for those who prioritize a sharper, higher-pitched sound. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus utilizes a Modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, which provides a unique and premium feel to the switch. While both housings offer similar benefits in terms of sound clarity, the White Lotus may have a slightly different tactile feel due to its special blend of materials.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Outemu Purple and Durock White Lotus switches feature nylon materials. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for absorbing sound and creating a duller, rounder sound. This creates a more satisfying typing experience for users who prefer a softer sound when bottoming out keys. While both switches share this quality in their bottom housing material, the slight variations in construction may result in subtle differences in sound and feel when typing on each switch.
The combination of different top and bottom housing materials in the Outemu Purple and Durock White Lotus switches offers users a unique typing experience. The split characteristics of the two housing materials allow for a balanced sound profile when both typing and releasing keys. The bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is complemented by the top housing's influence on the sound when keys are released. This dynamic interaction between the two housing materials ensures that users can enjoy a well-rounded and responsive typing experience with either switch option.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it is evident that they have differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Outemu Purple has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the White Lotus' 46 grams, making the Purple slightly heavier to push down initially. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the White Lotus requires a higher force of 56 grams, while the bottom out force for the Purple is unknown. This means that the White Lotus provides a more consistent resistance throughout the keystroke process, whereas the Purple may have a lighter feel once the key is pressed down completely. Individuals who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Outemu Purple for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those who desire a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Durock White Lotus for its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect to experience a similar key press feeling in terms of distance traveled. The consistency in travel distance between the two switches indicates that users are likely to get comparable results in terms of typing experience. Both switches offer a medium travel distance that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, making them suitable choices for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience.
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 Purple 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 Purple switch is known for a specific sound profile which is not specified, while the Durock White Lotus switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound. The low-pitched sound of the White Lotus switch provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, making it a suitable option for those looking for a quieter typing experience. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Purple switch does not have a specific description provided, while the Durock White Lotus switch is noted for being easy-to-press, mild, and subtle in feel. The easy-to-press nature of the White Lotus switch means that it requires minimal force to activate, offering a comfortable and effortless typing experience that can reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The mild and subtle characteristics of the White Lotus switch provide a gentle typing experience, making it approachable to most users and suitable for shared spaces due to its non-resonant sound signature.
Overall, while the specific sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Purple switch are not detailed, the Durock White Lotus switch is known for its low-pitched, easy-to-press, mild, and subtle characteristics. Both switches offer their own unique benefits and can cater to different preferences in terms of typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and delicate typing experience with a light tactile feedback, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is the ideal choice for you. These switches are perfect for work and extended typing sessions, offering a subtle tactile feel without being overwhelming. Additionally, the removable light column allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, enhancing the visual appeal of your keyboard setup. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with an unknown bottom out force and are seeking a different typing experience, the Outemu Purple tactile switch may be a good option to explore. Ultimately, the decision between the Outemu Purple and Durock White Lotus switches comes down to your personal preference for tactile feedback, typing feel, and aesthetic preferences for your keyboard setup.
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