Kailh Box Royal vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference and intended use. The Kailh Box Royal stands out with its remarkably sharp and aggressive tactile feedback, making it an excellent option for typists and gamers who appreciate definitive keystroke response. Characterized by a high-pitched sound profile, it adds a distinct auditory element to each press, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) offers a smoother linear feel, boasting a medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g and a bright, resonant sound that makes each key press feel lively and enjoyable. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a softer touch without the distraction of tactile bumps, providing a seamless typing flow. Ultimately, the decision between the Box Royal's pronounced tactility and the Lotus's smooth, bouncy action depends on your personal preferences, whether you crave feedback or fluidity in your keystrokes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

HMX Lotus (Heavy) Linear

$6.25 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Kailh Box Royal and HMX Lotus (Heavy) both utilize nylon as their housing material, which sets a foundation for their acoustic characteristics and overall sound profile when typing. Nylon, known for its softer composition compared to harder plastics, greatly influences the auditory experience of keystrokes. Both switches’ nylon top housings contribute to a deeper and fuller sound, allowing for an engaging tactile feedback while typing. This shared material means that users can expect a similar tonal quality in both switches, as the nylon effectively absorbs sound and minimizes harshness, creating a pleasant auditory environment.

In terms of bottom housing, both the Box Royal and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) again incorporate nylon. This parallel further ensures that both switches will maintain compatibility in sound quality; both will produce that characteristic rounder, duller tone upon bottoming out. The effect of the nylon’s softness amplifies the overall acoustic properties of each switch. As a result, when either the Box Royal or the Lotus (Heavy) is pressed, the softness of the bottom housing will enhance the unique sound experience, further solidifying their similarity in auditory performance.

While the two models share commonality in material, the interaction between the top and bottom housings may yield slightly different tactile experiences. The Box Royal and Lotus (Heavy) each offer a well-rounded typing experience with their respective housings, but the feel when bottoming out and the sound upon key release may vary subtly due to any distinct engineering between the two. Nevertheless, both the Kailh Box Royal and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) promise a satisfying typing experience, harmonizing around the classic properties of nylon in creating an engaging, full-bodied sound profile.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch to the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom-out forces. The Box Royal has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom-out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) features a higher actuation force of 55 grams but a lower bottom-out force of 62.5 grams, placing it within the medium range. This indicates that the Box Royal is the lighter option when it comes to actuation force, making it potentially more suitable for long typing sessions where less effort is desired. Conversely, the Lotus switch provides a heavier actuation force, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Thus, while both switches offer different tactile outcomes, the Box Royal is preferable for those seeking reduced fatigue during extended use, while the HMX Lotus (Heavy) may attract those who enjoy a firmer feel.

Travel distance

The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing the keys, the Box Royal requires a marginally longer distance to activate compared to the Lotus. In terms of overall responsiveness, those who prefer a quick response might lean towards the HMX Lotus due to its shorter travel distance, making it potentially more suitable for gaming or fast-paced activities. On the other hand, the Box Royal, with its greater travel distance, may offer a more tactile and satisfying feel for users who appreciate deeper keypresses. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference—whether one values a more abrupt and snappy response or a more pronounced keystroke experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch can be characterized as high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp tone upon actuation. This makes it ideal for users who prefer a lighter and more focused auditory feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is noted for its bright and resonant sound, which adds a bouncy layer to the acoustic experience, likely providing a satisfying auditory response that can resonate pleasantly throughout the typing experience. Both switches cater to distinct sound preferences, with the Box Royal leaning toward a more piercing sound, while the Lotus introduces a fuller auditory presence.

When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Royal delivers a remarkably sharp tactile bump, offering an intense feedback that is hard to miss with every press. Its binary tactility is particularly pronounced and provides an aggressive feel that enhances typing precision and satisfaction. On the other hand, while specific descriptors for the Lotus (Heavy) feel might not be available, the medium-heavy actuation weight suggests a substantial resistance that likely contributes to a robust and engaging typing sensation. The “super bouncy” characteristic indicates that users can expect a lively response, potentially making the Lotus feel dynamic and enjoyable during use.

In summary, if you're drawn to a typing experience characterized by pronounced tactility and higher-pitched sound, the Kailh Box Royal switches may be the right choice for you. Conversely, if you prefer a switch that combines a heavier action with a more resonant sound, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) could be more appealing. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, ensuring that you’ll find an enjoyable typing experience, whether you favor sharp tactile feedback or a more bouncy, resonant touch.

Conclusion

To summarize, choosing between the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and the experience you seek. If you favor a pronounced tactile feedback with sharp, distinct bumps when you press each key, the Box Royal is the way to go, especially if you enjoy the satisfying, almost aggressive tactile sensation that these switches provide. Their higher pitched sound profile amplifies the experience, making your keystrokes feel engaging and intentional, ideal for those who prioritize tactile feedback during typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more linear feel with a delightful bouncy sensation and less resistance than the Box Royals, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) might be more suitable. With a medium-heavy weight and resonant sound, these switches offer a pleasant typing experience that is satisfying without being overly tactile, great for long typing sessions or when you want a quieter environment. Ultimately, you should consider your preferences for tactility and sound when making your choice between these two distinct switch types.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

HMX Lotus (Heavy) Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more