Durock Blue Lotus vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Blue Lotus, a tactile switch, to the HMX Lotus, a linear switch, one can see distinct differences in their characteristics. The blue lotus is admired for its tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, thanks to its slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm. This makes it a great choice for those who prefer a pronounced tactile feel in their typing experience. Additionally, the detachable light column adds a visually appealing component with vibrant RGB illumination. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus stands out for its medium weight of 50g bottom out and bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. While the Blue Lotus is described as accented, bassy, snappy, stepped, the HMX Lotus lacks specific categorization. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
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 long spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Durock Blue Lotus and the HMX Lotus both feature nylon top housings, which provide a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The nylon material is known for its ability to absorb sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This makes typing on both switches a quieter and more satisfying experience, ideal for those who prefer a more muted typing sound.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housings. The Blue Lotus utilizes a modified PC and UPE Blend bottom housing, offering a unique and premium feel when pressing down on the switch. This material may provide a different tactile feedback and sound profile compared to the nylon bottom housing of the HMX Lotus. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, so the choice of material here can greatly impact the overall typing experience.
In terms of overall performance, both switches are likely to deliver similar results in terms of sound and feel due to their shared nylon top housing. However, the slight differences in their bottom housings may result in a subtle variation in typing experience. Whether you prefer the unique and premium feel of the Blue Lotus or the classic nylon material of the HMX Lotus, both switches are designed to offer a satisfying typing experience with their carefully chosen housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Lotus has a heavier feel compared to the Lotus. The Blue Lotus requires an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Lotus has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is lighter. The difference in weight between the two switches can significantly impact the typing experience for users. Some may find the lighter actuation force of the Lotus more comfortable for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the stronger push feel of the Blue Lotus for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7mm, while the HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm. This makes the HMX Lotus the shorter option by 0.2mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular for their faster response times, especially among gamers. The slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly different feel when typing or gaming, with the Blue Lotus offering a slightly deeper press compared to the Lotus. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Blue 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 Blue Lotus for $4.57.
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 Durock Blue Lotus switch offers a bassy profile, providing a deeper and richer sound during key presses. On the other hand, the sound profile of the HMX Lotus switch is unknown. It's important to remember that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switch is known for its accented tactility, snappy response, and stepped feel, offering a medium tactile experience that is not overwhelming but still provides a noticeable bump. Conversely, the tactile feel of the HMX Lotus switch is not specified. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences in terms of responsiveness and feedback.
Taking into account all the available information, the Durock Blue Lotus switch excels in providing a tactile typing experience with a distinct sound profile, while the HMX Lotus switch focuses on delivering a smooth and bouncy keystroke sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preferences in sound, feel, and aesthetic design.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, accentuated tactility, and a slightly reduced travel distance, the Durock Blue Lotus would be an excellent choice for you. However, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a super bouncy feel, and a bright, resonant sound with every keystroke, the HMX Lotus linear switch may be more up your alley. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your personal preferences in terms of tactile feel, sound profile, and bottom out force.
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