Huano Acacia vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Huano Acacia and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Acacia and HMX Lotus (Heavy) both offer distinct advantages tailored to different typing preferences. The Acacia, revered for its medium-light weight and generous factory lubrication, promises an exceptional typing experience straight out of the box, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a smooth and comfortable feel. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch incorporates a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g and delivers a bright, resonant sound, creating a bouncy sensation that adds a layer of tactile satisfaction to every keystroke. While the Acacia focuses on a streamlined and noise-minimized experience, the Lotus (Heavy) brings a more pronounced auditory feedback into the mix. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your unique preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Huano Acacia and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) utilize different materials for their top housings, which significantly influences their sound profiles. The Acacia features a polycarbonate top housing, a material known for its rigidity and translucence. This results in a sharper and crisper auditory experience, allowing RGB lighting to shine through beautifully, enhancing both aesthetics and sound clarity. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) employs a nylon top housing, which is softer and more absorbent, producing a deeper, fuller sound profile that is rounder and more subdued. While each switch exhibits distinct sonic characteristics due to the differences in materials, the contrast in housing creates a nuanced auditory experience that aficionados of mechanical keyboards might appreciate.
The bottom housings of both switches, however, share a commonality that influences their auditory performance in a different manner. Both the Huano Acacia and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Since nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, this choice allows for a more rounded bottom-out sound when pressure is applied. Consequently, while the top housings of both switches diverge – leading to unique sonic experiences on release – the shared nylon bottom housing enhances a similar tactile depth across both switches when pressed down, providing a satisfying feedback during typing.
When considering the overall impact of the combined materials, the differences and similarities in the housing configurations lead to unique yet complementary sound profiles. The Acacia’s polycarbonate top delivers brightness and clarity during release, while the nylon bottom ensures a plush and deep response upon actuation. The Lotus (Heavy)'s nylon top renders a richer sound overall, balanced by the same nylon bottom that nurtures fullness. Ultimately, the users of either switch will experience varying sound signatures dictated by the interplay of top and bottom materials—clear in the case of the Acacia and rounded in the case of the Lotus—while still benefiting from the familiar, deep tones provided by the consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Acacia linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, a clear distinction can be made regarding their actuation and bottom out forces. The Acacia features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a gentler touch, which can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) requires a stronger actuation force of 55 grams and has a higher bottom out force of 62.5 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more robust and substantial feel when they type. Overall, the Acacia is the lighter option, while the Lotus (Heavy) provides a heftier push, appealing to different preferences and usage scenarios.
Travel distance
Both the Huano Acacia linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch share the same travel distance of 3.5 mm, meaning that the distance traveled from the top to the bottom when pressing each switch is identical. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users can expect similar tactile feedback and actuation experience when using either switch. As a result, those seeking a consistent and uniform feel while typing or gaming will find both options equally satisfactory in terms of travel distance, providing a uniform key press experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lotus (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus (Heavy) for $2.99.
The Huano Acacia comes in at $3.39 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
In terms of sound, the Huano Acacia linear switch is known for its relatively quiet operation, making it an unobtrusive choice for both office and home environments. The generous factory lubrication contributes to this muted sound profile, allowing for a pleasant experience that won't disturb those around you. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch offers a brighter and more resonant sound, which can provide a satisfying auditory feedback that many typists enjoy. This contrast means that while the Acacia might be better suited for quieter spaces, the Lotus could be preferred by those who appreciate a more pronounced sound with each keystroke.
Regarding the feel, the Huano Acacia linear switch is characterized by a medium-light weight, enabling a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. The generous factory lubrication paired with minimal stem wobble enhances the overall feel, making it a comfortable switch for prolonged use. In comparison, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch provides a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, delivering a bounciness that can make typing feel dynamic and engaging. This heavier resistance may appeal to those who prefer more tactile feedback, even within a linear switch design.
Considering both switches, the Acacia excels in providing a quiet, smooth typing experience with minimal effort, while the Lotus (Heavy) switch stands out for those who value a more pronounced sound and satisfying bounce with each press. Your choice may ultimately depend on whether you prioritize a serene typing environment or a lively, auditory keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Acacia linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the experience you seek. If you prefer a lighter touch for a smoother and more effortless typing experience, the Acacia switch is your go-to choice. Its medium-light 55g actuation force, combined with generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, makes it particularly appealing for extended typing sessions, allowing you to maintain speed and comfort without straining your fingers. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile and responsive feeling, along with a slightly heavier actuation force, the Lotus (Heavy) switch is ideal. With its 62.5g actuation force, you’ll experience a bouncier sensation with each keystroke, complemented by a bright and resonant sound that adds an engaging auditory element to your typing. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style—whether you prioritize lightness and smoothness with the Acacia or a heavier, more vibrant feel with the Lotus (Heavy).
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