HMX Cheese vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and the HMX Lotus offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Cheese switch is celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, along with a satisfying clacky and crispy sound signature. On the other hand, the Lotus switch stands out with a medium weight and bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. While the Cheese switch is lighter and delivers a unique typing experience, the Lotus switch offers a more responsive and tactile feel. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the HMX Lotus both feature nylon top and bottom housings. This means that typing on switches that utilize these materials will elicit a similar deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. Additionally, the softer nature of nylon creates a duller and rounder sound overall. As a result, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel with both the Cheese and Lotus switches.
One key difference between the Cheese and Lotus switches lies in the design and construction of their respective housings. While both switches feature nylon as a housing material, the specific construction and shape of the housings may vary between the two models. This could potentially impact the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches, as factors such as internal cavity design and housing thickness can influence acoustics. However, the fundamental properties of nylon as a housing material will still be present in both switches, ensuring a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile.
Overall, the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the HMX Lotus switches serve to provide a consistent and high-quality typing experience for users. Both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, allowing for a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characteristic of this softer plastic material. While there may be slight differences in the construction and design of the housings, the core qualities of nylon as a switch housing material remain consistent across both models. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either the Cheese or Lotus switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese and HMX Lotus linear switches, it is evident that both switches are relatively light. The HMX Cheese has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the HMX Lotus has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams - both of which are on the lighter side. This means that users who prefer a lighter typing experience would be comfortable using either of these switches. However, the slight difference in weight may be noticeable for those who have a preference for a slightly heavier push when typing. Overall, both switches provide a smooth and comfortable typing experience, making them suitable for extended use.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Cheese and HMX Lotus linear switches have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a similar distance traveled from the top to the bottom. The uniform travel distance of 3.5 mm ensures consistent typing experiences between the two switches, making them ideal choices for those looking for a specific key travel feel. Whether you choose the Cheese or the Lotus linear switch, you can expect to get similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.79.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Cheese linear switch offers a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound that is unique to ultra-light switches. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus linear switch provides a bright, resonant sound that adds a bounce to every keystroke. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used, so it's important to consider these factors when choosing a switch based on sound preference.
As for feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch is best known for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience. It offers a light touch that makes typing effortless and enjoyable. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus linear switch provides a bouncy feeling with a medium weight of 50g bottom out. This gives each keystroke a satisfying tactile response that some users may prefer over the lighter touch of the Cheese switch.
Overall, when comparing the HMX Cheese and HMX Lotus linear switches, it's clear that they offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a lighter touch and crispy sound, the Cheese switch may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bouncy feeling and bright, resonant sound, the Lotus switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a lighter switch with a smooth and satisfying typing experience, along with a clacky, poppy, and crispy sound, then the HMX Cheese switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium weight switch with a super bouncy feeling and a bright, resonant sound, then the HMX Lotus switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific characteristics and qualities that align with your personal preferences and typing style.
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