Outemu Red vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Red and Durock White Lotus offer distinct features catering to different preferences. The Outemu Red is a linear switch known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent feel, making it a popular choice for gamers seeking quick and precise inputs. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus stands out for its exquisite light tactile feedback, providing a delicate bump with each press that enhances the typing experience for those who enjoy a tactile response. While the Red switch is ideal for fast-paced gaming, the White Lotus switch is perfect for work and extended typing sessions. 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
46g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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 Red and Durock White Lotus both feature polycarbonate top housings, which offer a sharp and clear sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a brighter and more resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the White Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend top housing provides a unique and premium feel, giving the switch a different aesthetic appeal compared to the traditional polycarbonate top housing of the Red.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Outemu Red and Durock White Lotus use nylon, a classic switch housing material known for creating a fuller and deeper sound profile. The nylon bottom housing of both switches absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This commonality in bottom housing material suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either switch.
While the top and bottom housings of the two switches have different materials, they each play a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when a key is released. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing materials can affect the overall typing experience and sound output of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch both have an actuation force of 46 grams, making them equal in this aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Outemu Red has a heavier force of 62 grams compared to the Durock White Lotus, which has a lighter force of 56 grams. This means that the Outemu Red switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, while the Durock White Lotus offers a lighter touch for a more comfortable typing experience. Players looking for a switch to use for extended periods may prefer the lighter bottom out force of the Durock White Lotus, while those who prefer a more robust typing experience may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Outemu Red. Both switches offer a medium actuation force, so users can expect similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Red linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Therefore, the travel distance of both switches is equal, resulting in similar typing experiences for users who prefer either the Outemu Red or the Durock White Lotus switches.
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 Red 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 Red linear switch is relatively unknown. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. This means that the White Lotus switches offer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches, while still maintaining a moderate sound profile that can suit a variety of typing environments. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Red switch does not have a specific description provided. However, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is known for being easy-to-press, mild, and subtle. These qualities mean that the White Lotus switches offer a gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate, leading to a comfortable and effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. The mild and subtle characteristics of the White Lotus switches provide a gentle typing feel and a non-resonant sound signature, making them suitable for shared spaces.
Considering all available information, if you were to choose between the Outemu Red linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, you would likely experience a smooth and quiet typing experience with the Red switch, while the White Lotus switch would offer a more tactile feedback and a gentle typing feel with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique qualities, but if you prefer a more tactile and gentle typing experience, the Durock White Lotus switches would be the preferred choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Red linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, you should consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a light tactile typing experience with a delicate tactility, the White Lotus switches would be an excellent choice for work and extended typing sessions. Additionally, the removable light column allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Outemu Red switches may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactility and RGB lighting or a smoother linear typing experience.
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