HMX Blue Topaz vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, one can see that both are linear switches. The Blue Topaz is favored for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing a seamless experience. In contrast, the Lotus does not have any standout features mentioned. The Blue Topaz is also noted for its distinctive glittery housing that adds visual appeal, along with a satisfying clacky sound. On the other hand, the Lotus lacks such standout characteristics. While the Blue Topaz is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', the Lotus does not have any specific categories listed. Ultimately, when choosing between these switches, it may come down to personal preference and specific typing needs. 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
40g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Lotus offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Blue Topaz's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Lotus's nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The translucency of the polycarbonate used in the Blue Topaz allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal. In contrast, the Lotus's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
Both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. However, the differences in the top housing materials between the Blue Topaz and the Lotus significantly impact the sound profile when pressing and releasing a key. The split qualities of the housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch provide a unique tactile experience for users, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
In terms of performance, the HMX Blue Topaz's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing provide a clear, resonant sound profile with a sharper tone, while the Outemu Lotus's nylon top and bottom housing offer a fuller, deeper sound profile with a rounder tone. Both switches are durable and reliable, emphasizing the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound and feel of mechanical switches. While each switch offers a unique experience based on their housing materials, users can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz and Outemu Lotus linear switches, it is clear that both switches are on the lighter side of the spectrum. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Lotus has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches require a relatively light touch to actuate and bottom out, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. The slight difference in bottom out force between the two switches may not be significant in practical use, as both fall within a similar range. Overall, users can expect a similar typing experience with both switches due to their comparable actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, which is longer than the Outemu Lotus linear switch with a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Blue Topaz provides a slightly deeper keypress feel compared to the Lotus. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Lotus due to its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more hearty keypress experience may lean towards the Blue Topaz. Both switches offer a different typing feel, with the Blue Topaz offering a slightly longer press compared to the Lotus. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Blue Topaz has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Topaz for $3.49.
The Outemu Lotus comes in at $3.10 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is well-loved for its clacky sound signature, which provides a sharp and snappy auditory feedback that is both satisfying and distinct. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus linear switch does not have a specific sound descriptor available, so it is difficult to compare the two in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Blue Topaz is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering a smooth actuation and lightweight feel that requires minimal force to activate. This makes every keystroke effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions and enhancing the overall typing experience. On the contrary, information about the feel of the Outemu Lotus linear switch is not available at this time, making it challenging to directly compare the two in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its smooth actuation, lightweight feel, clacky sound signature, and eye-catching glitter housing that adds visual appeal to any keyboard. While information about the Outemu Lotus linear switch is limited, based on the available data, users can expect a similar lightweight feel from the Lotus due to its linear nature. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and aesthetic features.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch or the Outemu Lotus linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for a smoother actuation and lighter feel. If you value a super smooth actuation and lightweight typing experience, the Blue Topaz would be the ideal choice for you. Its visually appealing glitter housing and clacky sound signature add to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force while still maintaining a light touch, the Outemu Lotus could be a suitable option. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique characteristics, so it's important to consider what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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