Bsun Pine vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can greatly impact your typing experience. The BSUN Pine switch is a tactile switch that stands out for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, offering a direct and no-nonsense typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus switch is a linear switch with a medium weight and a bouncy feel that provides a delightful keystroke sound. While the Pine switch is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the Lotus switch does not have specific categories listed. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Pine and the HMX Lotus, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon, known for its softer properties, creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. However, when it comes to the top housing, the Pine stands out with its polycarbonate material, which is stiffer and results in a sharper and crisper sound profile. This contrast in materials brings a unique sound experience to each switch, catering to different preferences in sound profile.
Despite the difference in their top housing material, the Pine's polycarbonate and the Lotus's nylon both offer distinct advantages. The Pine's polycarbonate top housing creates a more resonant sound due to its stiffer nature, while the Lotus's nylon top housing produces a fuller sound by absorbing more sound vibrations. This shows that even though the materials are different, they each contribute to enhancing the overall sound profile of the switches in their own unique ways.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it becomes evident that the qualities of each material are split between the two parts of the switch. The bottom housing's softer nylon material influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing's stiffer polycarbonate or nylon material affects the sound when releasing a key. This division of material qualities highlights how each component plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience on both the Bsun Pine and the HMX Lotus switches.
Weight
The Bsun Pine tactile switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, the Pine has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, compared to the Lotus's lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while both switches will feel similar when initially pressing down, the Pine will provide a more substantial typing experience due to the higher force required to fully depress the key. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Lotus, as it allows for a smoother and quicker typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Pine tactile switch is 3.4 mm, while the HMX Lotus linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for users looking for a quicker response time. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance for faster reaction speeds. However, the difference of 0.1 mm between the two switches may not be noticeable to all users. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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.
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 Pine tactile switch is known for its quiet operation, with a muted and subtle sound that is not distracting to the user. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus linear switch produces a bright and resonant sound, providing a more audible typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can add to the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and the setting in which the keyboard is used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Pine tactile switch is characterized by its sharp tactile bump and fast action, providing a snappy and invigorating typing experience. The Lotus linear switch, on the other hand, offers a bouncy feeling with a medium actuation force of 50g, creating a smooth and consistent keystroke. While the Pine switch offers a more accentuated and pronounced tactile feedback, the Lotus switch provides a more fluid and consistent typing feel. Both switches offer distinct tactile and typing experiences, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
In conclusion, the BSUN Pine tactile switch and HMX Lotus linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Pine switch is best suited for users who prefer a sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, while the Lotus switch is ideal for those seeking a bouncier and smoother typing feel. It is important for newcomers to consider their personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches to ensure an optimal typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and can provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with slightly different characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the BSUN Pine tactile switch or the HMX Lotus linear switch, it all comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you are looking for. If you prioritize direct, sharp tactility and a distinctive typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Pine switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force and a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke, the Lotus switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision of which switch to choose will depend on your individual preferences for typing feel and sound. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
