Durock Black Lotus vs. HMX Cheese
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the HMX Cheese switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Black Lotus and the HMX Cheese both offer unique features and benefits to users. The Black Lotus is a linear switch best known for its silky smooth feel, reduced housing and stem wobble, and 55g actuation weight. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese is also a linear switch that provides an unparalleled smoothness, satisfying clacky sound, and ultra-light feel. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the Black Lotus being on the heavier side and the HMX Cheese being exceptionally light. 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
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the HMX Cheese both showcase the use of nylon as a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon housings is said to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that provides a unique typing experience for users of both switches. In terms of top housing, the Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE blend which gives it a premium feel, while the Cheese sticks to nylon for its top housing, providing a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile.
On the other hand, the distinction between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The Black Lotus utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which enhances the depth and fullness of the typing sound experienced by users. Similarly, the Cheese also employs nylon for its bottom housing, creating a consistent typing experience with a focus on sound profile. Although the top and bottom housing materials may vary between the switches, the overall typing experience is likely to be quite similar, with both switches offering a deep, full sound profile and a unique feel that sets them apart from other switches on the market.
The impact of the housing material on the overall typing experience is split between the top and bottom housings of the switches. When it comes to the Black Lotus and the Cheese, the bottom housing material plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing a deeper and fuller typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing material influences the sound when letting go of a key, contributing to the overall sound profile of the switch. Whether it's the premium feel of the modified PC and UPE blend in the Black Lotus or the classic nylon material in the Cheese, both switches offer a unique typing experience that is sure to satisfy users looking for a switch with a distinct sound profile and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, it is clear that the Cheese switch is the lighter of the two, with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams. In contrast, the Black Lotus is the heavier option, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Cheese switch make it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, such as during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Black Lotus provides a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, which may be preferred by those looking for a heavier switch option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Black Lotus has a longer travel distance compared to the Cheese. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Black Lotus is more traditional, providing a deeper key press feel, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the 3.5mm travel distance of the Cheese offers a shallower feel, which is favored by gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of key press depth, catering to individual preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether you prioritize key press depth or quick response times in your typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Black 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 Black Lotus for $4.57.
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.99.
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 Black Lotus is generally described as having a subtle and refined typing sound, thanks in part to its unique light column design. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese is known for its satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, adding a distinct auditory experience to your typing sessions.
When it comes to feel, the Black Lotus is praised for its silky smooth keystrokes, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced wobble for improved precision. The HMX Cheese switches, on the other hand, provide an unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, with an ultra-light actuation that enhances the overall typing feel.
Overall, both the Durock Black Lotus and the HMX Cheese switches offer exceptional typing experiences, each with its own unique qualities. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, you can achieve satisfying results with either switch. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Durock Black Lotus linear switch or the HMX Cheese linear switch, you should consider the bottom out force that best suits your typing preferences. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, along with a silky smooth feel and precision typing experience, the Black Lotus may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a satisfying clacky sound signature, the ultra-light HMX Cheese switch may be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force.
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