Kailh Box White vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White and the HMX Lotus offer unique experiences for users. The Box White, a clicky switch, is renowned for its maximum audio feedback, with a distinct "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and accented tactility when typing. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus, a linear switch, boasts a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound that provides a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference - whether you prefer the tactile feedback of the Box White or the smooth, linear action of the Lotus. 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
Yes
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the HMX Lotus, it is clear that both switches use nylon for their bottom housing. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. While the bottom housing may have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, the top housing will play a significant role in the sound when releasing a key.
Despite both switches utilizing nylon for their bottom housing, the top housing materials differ between the two. The Box White features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. On the other hand, the Lotus uses a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile with a softer and more absorbent plastic. This contrast in top housing materials highlights how different plastics can affect the overall sound of a switch.
While the housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the HMX Lotus may differ in some aspects, such as the top housing material, the use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures that both switches will have a similar depth and fullness in their sound profiles. The difference in top housing material, with the Box White using polycarbonate and the Lotus opting for nylon, showcases how varying plastics can impact the sharpness and clarity of the sound produced. Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in each switch results in a unique typing experience for users to enjoy.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch are different. The Box White has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Lotus's 45 grams, making it the heavier option. Similarly, the Box White also has a higher bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Lotus has a lower bottom out force of 50 grams, making the Box White the heavier switch when it comes to both actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Lotus switch, as the lighter forces can allow for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Box White switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, slightly longer than the HMX Lotus linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are increasingly popular among gamers for their quicker response times. The Box White clicky switch may provide a bit more depth in its travel compared to the Lotus linear switch, making it a better choice for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. However, if you prefer a shorter and more responsive key press, the Lotus linear switch with its slightly shorter travel distance may be more suitable. 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 White comes in at $2.76 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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is known for its resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy sound profile, offering a clean and sharp auditory experience reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the HMX Lotus linear switch is not available. When comparing these two switches, if you are looking for a switch with a more pronounced and immersive sound experience, the Box White may be the better choice.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, there is no information available regarding the tactile feel of the HMX Lotus linear switch. If a smooth and sleek typing experience is of importance to you, the Box White switch may be more suitable for your preferences.
Overall, the Kailh Box White clicky switch offers a clicky and tactile typing experience with a resonant and high-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy audible feedback while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus linear switch provides a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, which may appeal to those looking for a super bouncy typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound feedback, typing feel, or a combination of both.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a loud, clicky sound with a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and a tactile experience, the Box White switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and a smooth, polished typing experience without the clicky sound, the HMX Lotus switch would be a better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel when typing on a mechanical keyboard.
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