Outemu Tom vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Outemu Tom and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Outemu Tom, a tactile switch, and the Durock White Lotus, also a tactile switch. The Outemu Tom is known for its satisfying feedback, while the Durock White Lotus is renowned for introducing a light tactile option designed for the discerning typist. The White Lotus switches offer a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance, making them ideal for work and extended typing sessions without overwhelming the user. Additionally, with a removable light column, these switches allow for vibrant RGB lighting effects, adding a captivating glow to your keyboard setup. The Outemu Tom and Durock White Lotus both provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Tom and the Durock White Lotus, we see that both switches have polycarbonate top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharp, high-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. This material is also ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the White Lotus features a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, which gives the switch a unique and premium feel. Both materials offer different benefits, with polycarbonate focusing on sound profile clarity and resonant properties, while the modified blend offers a distinct tactile experience.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Tom and White Lotus switches utilize nylon. Nylon is a classic housing material known for producing a deep and full sound profile. Due to its softer nature, nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This material choice in the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall typing experience, offering a unique sound and feel with each key press. Despite using the same material for the bottom housing, the switches may offer different typing experiences based on their design and construction.
The combination of different housing materials in the Outemu Tom and the Durock White Lotus switches allows for a variety of sound profiles and tactile experiences. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound, they differ in their bottom housing material. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings impact the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Whether using polycarbonate or a modified blend for the top housing, and nylon for the bottom housing, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it is evident that the White Lotus is lighter in both aspects. The Tom requires 55 grams of force to actuate, while the White Lotus only needs 46 grams. Additionally, the bottom out force of the White Lotus is 56 grams, indicating a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Tom, which does not have a specified bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the White Lotus would be the better choice, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, those looking for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Tom, as it offers a slightly heavier actuation force. In terms of results, both switches would provide similar outcomes in terms of functionality, but the preference would ultimately come down to individual typing preferences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, the Tom has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm while the White Lotus has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Tom offers a quicker response time due to its shorter distance, making it a popular choice among gamers who value speed. On the other hand, the White Lotus provides a more substantial keypress feel with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for either a shorter, more responsive key press or a longer, more satisfying depth to their typing.
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 Tom 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 Tom switch is known for providing a quiet typing experience compared to the Durock White Lotus switch, which is described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. The Tom switch likely produces a softer, more subtle sound during keystrokes, while the White Lotus switch offers a deeper, bass-heavy tone. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Tom switch and the Durock White Lotus switch each offer a unique tactile experience. The Tom switch's specific feel is unspecified, while the White Lotus switch is known for being easy-to-press, mild, and subtle. This indicates that the White Lotus switch provides a gentle resistance with a light actuation force, resulting in a comfortable and effortless typing experience. The subtle resistance of the White Lotus switch also contributes to a quieter typing sound, making it suitable for shared spaces.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Tom and Durock White Lotus switches differ in sound and feel characteristics, they both offer distinct advantages. The Tom switch may appeal to users seeking a quieter typing experience, while the White Lotus switch caters to those looking for a light tactile feel with a deeper, more neutral sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Regardless of your choice, both switches are designed to enhance your typing comfort and efficiency.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, you should consider your preferences and typing needs. If you are looking for a switch with a delicate tactility and luminous RGB lighting effects for a tranquil typing experience, the White Lotus would be the ideal choice. Its medium-light bottom out force and easy-to-press feel make it suitable for work and extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bottom out force of None and a sound and feel that aligns with your preferences, the Tom might be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision depends on what features and characteristics matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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