Bsun Avocado vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the decision often comes down to personal preference in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience. On one hand, the Bsun Avocado switch stands out for its refreshingly tactile feel, featuring a snappy and buttery downstroke that appeals to those seeking a balanced and satisfying typing experience. Its mild and neutral sound signature adds to the overall unobtrusive nature of the switch. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus switch offers a linear experience with a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound that brings a super bouncy feeling to each keystroke. While the Avocado switch may cater to those who enjoy accentuated tactile feedback, the Lotus switch appeals to users looking for a smooth and consistent typing experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Avocado and the HMX Lotus, a clear difference is seen in the top housing. The Avocado features a polycarbonate top housing, which gives a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Lotus utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of the Avocado is more rigid, leading to a clearer and resonant sound, while the softer nylon top housing of the Lotus absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Avocado and the Lotus feature a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. Therefore, in terms of bottom housing material, the Avocado and the Lotus offer a similar typing experience with regards to sound profile.
Overall, while the Avocado and the Lotus differ in their top housing materials, both share a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience. The choice between polycarbonate and nylon for the top housing comes down to personal preference for the type of sound profile desired. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Avocado or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon in the Lotus, both switches offer distinct acoustic qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Avocado has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Lotus's 50 grams, making it a heavier switch overall. However, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. This means that users will feel a similar tactile response when pressing the keys on both switches, but the Avocado will require more force to bottom out completely. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Lotus may be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Avocado for its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Lotus has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Avocado. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. However, the difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be significant enough to drastically impact the feel or performance of the switches. Ultimately, if you prefer a slightly longer travel distance, the Lotus may be the better choice, but if you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance, the Avocado could be the way to go. Both switches offer relatively short travel distances compared to more traditional options, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Avocado has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Avocado for $4.00.
The HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus for $2.99.
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 Bsun Avocado tactile switch is characterized by a mild, neutral sound signature that provides a pleasant background to the typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus linear switch is known for its bright, resonant sound that adds to the overall tactile sensation of each keystroke. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences that can enhance the typing process, with the Avocado being more subdued and the Lotus being more vibrant.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Avocado tactile switch is described as offering an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, providing a satisfying amount of tactility without being overwhelming. The switch is known for its responsiveness and snappy feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus linear switch provides a super bouncy feeling with a medium weight of 50g bottom out. While the specific descriptors for the Lotus switch are not provided, it is clear that the switch offers a unique typing experience characterized by its smooth linear feel.
In conclusion, the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch offer distinct qualities in sound and feel. The Avocado provides a mild, neutral sound with pronounced tactile feedback, creating a satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Lotus switch offers a bright, resonant sound and a bouncy feel that adds to the enjoyment of each keystroke. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Avocado being more tactile-focused and the Lotus offering a smooth linear feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the BSUN Avocado tactile switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, tactility, and sound. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with pronounced tactility and a mild, neutral sound, the BSUN Avocado is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a bouncy, super responsive feel and a bright, resonant sound, the HMX Lotus would be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision will come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and overall feel. So, consider your typing style and sound preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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