Durock Black Lotus vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Black Lotus and the HMX SU are two compelling linear options, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Durock Black Lotus stands out for its silky smooth feel and precise performance, minimizing any wobble in the housing and stem, which enhances the overall typing experience. With a moderate 55g actuation weight, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, making it an excellent choice for typists who value a smooth keypress. Additionally, the distinctive light column within the switch allows for customizable in-switch lighting, adding a visual flair to your keyboard setup. In contrast, the HMX SU is recognized for its full PA12 housing and T5 stem, which contribute to a deeper yet subtle sound profile, appealing to users who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic experience while maintaining a satisfying linear actuation. While both switches offer linear actuation and a pleasing typing experience, their distinct qualities make them suited for different user preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
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-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the HMX SU, we find distinct differences in the compositions of the top housings, while the bottom housings of both switches share a commonality. The Durock Black Lotus features a modified blend of polycarbonate (PC) and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UPE) for its top housing. This unique material composition is designed to offer a premium feel, enhancing the tactile experience during typing. In contrast, the HMX SU opts for a conventional nylon top housing, which, while classic, lacks the innovative blend found in the Black Lotus. This difference suggests that users might experience a more traditional feel and sound profile with the SU switch compared to the potentially more sophisticated response of the Black Lotus top housing.
On the other hand, both switches share a notable similarity in their bottom housing, as both utilize nylon. Nylon is revered for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature. This shared characteristic means that regardless of the top housing differences, the users of both the Durock Black Lotus and HMX SU would experience similar acoustic benefits from the nylon bottom housing. The deep, rounded sound produced during key presses will be consistent across both models, providing an enriched auditory experience that many mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seek.
Overall, the interplay between the materials in the top and bottom housings significantly influences the overall feel and sound output of each switch. In the case of the Black Lotus, its advanced top housing may contribute to a more complex auditory signature during key release, while the nylon bottom housing will ensure a solid and full-bodied sound when bottoming out. Conversely, the HMX SU utilizes a more traditional top housing that may produce a more straightforward acoustic profile, with the nylon bottom still delivering the characteristic warm sound. While the two switches may diverge in their top housing compositions, the shared nylon bottom housing offers a point of consistency, assuring users that both will deliver satisfying performance in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, it is evident that they cater to different preferences in typing feel. The Black Lotus has a medium-heavy actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it suitable for those who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing experience. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, appealing to users who prefer a gentler touch that facilitates longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. This clear distinction in forces highlights that the Black Lotus is the heavier option, which might be ideal for typists seeking a stronger push feel, while the SU is the lighter choice, best for those who prioritize comfort during extended use. Since the actuation and bottom out forces of both switches differ, users should select based on their desired keyboard experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX SU linear switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference reflects the trend in modern switches, where shorter travel distances are often favored for quick response times, particularly by gamers seeking fast and precise keystrokes. Thus, those who prioritize speed and responsiveness may find the HMX SU to be the better choice. Conversely, if you prefer a more substantial keystroke and a distinctly deeper feel, the Black Lotus with its 4 mm travel distance would be more appealing. Ultimately, the Black Lotus offers the longer travel distance, providing a more pronounced typing experience, while the HMX SU, with its shorter travel distance, caters to those who favor a quicker actuation.
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 SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 Durock Black Lotus linear switch is characterized by its muted acoustics that lean toward a gentle and unobtrusive profile. This allows for a softer auditory experience during typing, which can be particularly appealing in quieter environments. On the other hand, the HMX SU linear switch features a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile that provides a richer tone. While both switches contribute to a pleasant typing experience, the Black Lotus offers a more subdued sound, making it suitable for those who prefer a quieter keyboard, while the SU's deeper sound may resonate more with users seeking a bit more auditory feedback.
When considering the feel, the Durock Black Lotus switch stands out with its silky smoothness, buttery keystrokes, and an overall polished experience. It is designed to minimize resistance and enhance the fluidity of typing, ensuring that each press is effortless and seamless. The mild characteristics of the Black Lotus make it approachable, appealing to a wide range of users from novices to seasoned typists. In contrast, the feel of the HMX SU switch has not been explicitly detailed, so it’s undetermined how it compares to the luxurious sensation offered by the Black Lotus. Thus, while the Black Lotus provides a clear advantage in terms of tactile pleasure, the feel of the SU remains an unknown quality to explore.
In conclusion, while both the Durock Black Lotus and HMX SU linear switches offer unique benefits, they cater to slightly different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Black Lotus sets a high standard with its smooth feel, gentle sound, and overall typing pleasure, making it an excellent choice for users prioritizing a premium tactile experience. Conversely, the SU's deeper sound adds a different flavor to the tactile experience, but without specific feedback on its feel, it remains a mystery compared to the well-established qualities of the Black Lotus. By understanding these nuances, newcomers can better navigate their choices based on sound and feel preferences while appreciating the premium qualities offered by the Black Lotus switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Durock Black Lotus and the HMX SU linear switches, it’s important to consider your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a more substantial feel and seek an exceptionally smooth and polished typing experience, the Black Lotus would be the ideal choice. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams allows for greater control, making it suitable for those who enjoy a tactile feedback during their typing sessions. It's especially advantageous for those who may find lighter switches too sensitive or prone to accidental key presses. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter switch with an understated sound profile and a more subtle keypress experience, the HMX SU is designed for you. With its light 50-gram bottom-out force, the SU facilitates rapid and effortless typing, making it well-suited for gamers or prolific typists who value speed over resistance. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you favor a more controlled, premium typing experience with the Durock Black Lotus or a swift, agile response with the HMX SU.
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