Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the HMX Lotus both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro is a linear switch that stands out with its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus, also a linear switch, offers a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, giving a super bouncy feeling to every keystroke. While both switches excel in their own ways, choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
48g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the HMX Lotus, we can see that they both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The V3 Crystal Pro features polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Lotus utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. While both switches have a clear housing, the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate material is better suited for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the V3 Crystal Pro and the Lotus offer unique sound profiles based on the specific qualities of polycarbonate and nylon. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the V3 Crystal Pro leads to a more clear and resonant sound, while the softer nature of nylon in the Lotus absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. These material differences provide users with the option to choose a switch based on their preference for sound profile, whether it be sharper and crisper or deeper and fuller.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the HMX Lotus will come down to personal preference in sound profile. The split between the top and bottom housings in each switch allows for a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the V3 Crystal Pro or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon in the Lotus, both switches offer distinct characteristics based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch both have relatively light actuation forces, making them ideal for those who prefer a light touch while typing or gaming. The Akko V3 Crystal Pro requires 48 grams of force to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out, providing a medium level of resistance. In contrast, the HMX Lotus has a lower actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it even lighter to press. This difference in weight may appeal to users who value a softer keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference, with the Akko V3 Crystal Pro offering a slightly more substantial typing experience compared to the lighter HMX Lotus. However, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results regardless of which one they choose.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, we can see that the V3 Crystal Pro has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Lotus has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Lotus has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are preferred by gamers for faster response times. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference - if you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance, the Lotus may be the better option for you, but if you prefer a bit more depth in your keypresses, the V3 Crystal Pro could be the way to go.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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 Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is known for its chirpy nature, offering a unique squeak that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus linear switch is described as having a bright and resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is known for its bouncy and polished sensation. The bouncy nature of these switches provides a spring-like feedback, making each key press lively and giving a pleasant rebound sensation. The polished finish ensures a smooth and refined typing experience, reducing friction and allowing for seamless key travel. Unfortunately, information on the feel of the HMX Lotus linear switch is not available at this time.
Overall, if you prefer a switch with a chirpy sound and a bouncy, polished feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bright and resonant sound with a super bouncy feel, then the HMX Lotus linear switch could be the perfect fit. Remember that personal preferences play a significant role in choosing the ideal switch for your mechanical keyboard setup, so it's essential to consider all factors before making a decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force of 60 grams and enjoy a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience, then the V3 Crystal Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and seek a bouncy feeling with a bright, resonant sound that makes each keystroke a delight, then the HMX Lotus switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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