Kailh Box Navy vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Navy, a clicky switch, and the HMX Lotus, a linear switch, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The Box Navy is ideal for those who enjoy a heavy typing experience with a clicky sound signature and tactile feedback reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the Lotus switches offer a medium weight and bright, resonant sound, providing a smooth and bouncy keystroke sensation. Both switches have unique characteristics that make them appealing depending on individual 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
90g
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the HMX Lotus, one key difference is the material used for the top housing. The Box Navy utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Lotus employs nylon for its top housing, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Box Navy and the HMX Lotus utilize nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to its softness, allowing it to absorb more sound and create a rounder sound compared to harder plastics. While both switches share the same bottom housing material, the impact of the bottom housing is more pronounced during the bottom-out sound and feel of pressing down on the switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for switches can significantly impact the sound profile and feel of typing. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Box Navy creates a sharp and clear sound, while the nylon top housing of the Lotus produces a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a similar deep and full sound profile during typing. Understanding the characteristics of different housing materials can help enthusiasts make informed decisions when choosing switches for their keyboards based on their desired sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, it is clear that the Box Navy is heavier in both aspects. The Box Navy has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 90 grams, while the Lotus has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Box Navy will require more force to trigger a keystroke and to fully press down compared to the Lotus. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Box Navy, while those who enjoy a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may opt for the Lotus. In both cases, users can expect a satisfying typing experience tailored to their preference based on the actuation and bottom out forces of each switch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is slightly longer at 3.6mm compared to the HMX Lotus linear switch at 3.5mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum when it comes to travel distance, making them popular choices for gamers seeking quicker response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users. If you prefer a slightly deeper press, the Box Navy may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly shorter press for faster gameplay, the Lotus switch could be the more suitable choice. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be significant enough to drastically impact your typing or gaming experience, so you can expect similar results from both options.
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 Navy 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 Navy clicky switch is known for its resonant and crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of vintage buckling spring keyboards, providing a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus linear switch has not been specifically described in terms of sound, suggesting a quieter typing experience compared to the loud and clicky nature of the Box Navy.
In terms of feel, the Box Navy switch is described as sharp, invigorating, and stiff, offering a strong tactile bump and requiring a higher amount of force to actuate. This results in a heavy typing experience with prominent feedback and a crisp feel with every keypress. In contrast, the HMX Lotus linear switch is not specifically described in terms of feel, indicating a potentially smoother and more consistent keystroke compared to the tactile and stiff nature of the Box Navy.
Overall, if you enjoy a heavy and tactile typing experience with a loud and resonant clicky sound, the Kailh Box Navy switch would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience without the prominent tactile feedback, the HMX Lotus linear switch may be more suited to your preferences. It is important to consider individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style when choosing between these two switches to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavy typing experience with a loud clicky sound, the Kailh Box Navy switches would be an ideal choice for you. The 90-gram bottom out force, resonant sound, and sharp tactile bump make these switches reminiscent of vintage buckling spring keyboards. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with a bouncy feel and bright sound, the HMX Lotus linear switches with a 50-gram bottom out force are the way to go. Ultimately, your preference for typing experience, sound profile, and tactile feedback will guide you in choosing between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch.
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