Kailh Box Jade vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Jade and the HMX Lotus. The Box Jade switch is a clicky switch that offers a medium-heavy typing experience with a distinct clicky sound profile and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus is a linear switch with a medium weight of 50g bottom out, providing a smooth and bouncy keystroke experience. While the Box Jade is known for its high-pitched click and invigorating tactile bumps, the Lotus stands out for its bright, resonant sound and smooth keystrokes. Each switch has its unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the HMX Lotus switches offer distinct qualities that affect the sound profile and feel of the switches. The Box Jade's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the Lotus's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate results in a clear and resonant sound profile, whereas the softer nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Both materials have their own unique characteristics that make them suitable for different preferences in typing sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Box Jade and the Lotus switches feature nylon material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound compared to harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, contributing to a duller and rounder sound profile. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that both switches may have a similar impact on the typing experience, with a focus on creating a fuller and more muted sound. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing maintains consistency in the sound profile of the switches, highlighting the importance of material selection for different parts of the switch design.
The distribution of housing materials in the Kailh Box Jade and HMX Lotus switches plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience. The unique qualities of polycarbonate and nylon in the top and bottom housings influence the sound profile when pressing down and releasing keys. The bottom housing contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has an impact on the sound when letting go of a key. Understanding the properties of each material allows users to tailor their typing experience based on their preferences for sound and feel. Whether using polycarbonate in the top housing for a sharper sound or nylon in the bottom housing for a fuller sound, both switches offer distinct typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch have different actuation and bottom-out forces. The Box Jade has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a higher bottom-out force of 60 grams, providing a medium feel when typing. In contrast, the Lotus has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams, giving it a lighter feel overall. Some may prefer the Box Jade for a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, while others may lean towards the Lotus for a lighter touch that allows for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference based on whether a lighter or heavier touch is preferred for typing or gaming.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Lotus linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular in keyboards today. Gamers may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Lotus switch for quicker response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the slightly longer travel distance of the Box Jade switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box Jade comes in at $5.50 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 Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is known for its high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp click with each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus linear switch's sound profile is not specified. While both switches may produce different sounds based on factors like the keyboard and keycaps used, if you prefer a more clicky and high-pitched sound, the Box Jade may be the better option for you.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Jade switch is described as having an accented and invigorating tactile experience, offering a medium-heavy typing experience with a prominent amount of tactility that is not overwhelming. This makes typing on the Box Jade switches feel engaging and responsive. Unfortunately, the feel of the HMX Lotus linear switch is not specified. If you are looking for a switch that provides a bouncy and invigorating typing experience, the Box Jade switch may be more suitable for your preferences.
Overall, if you are seeking a mechanical keyboard switch that provides a medium-heavy typing experience with a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, as well as an accented and invigorating tactile feel, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch would be an excellent choice. However, if you are looking for a different sound and feel experience that the HMX Lotus linear switch may offer, it's important to consider all aspects such as sound, feel, actuation force, and personal preferences before making a decision. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your individual typing preferences and needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile bump, the Kailh Box Jade switches are the way to go. You will enjoy the crisp clicks and crunchy tactile feedback with each keystroke. However, if you prefer a lighter touch and bouncy feel while typing, the HMX Lotus linear switches with their 50g bottom out force and bright sound profile will provide a delightful typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Box Jade and Lotus switches will depend on your preference for switch weight, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider what best suits your typing style and preferences to make the right decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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