Outemu Crystal vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Crystal and HMX Lotus both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Crystal is a linear switch known for its elastic feel and medium-light weight, providing a smooth and consistent typing experience with a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Lotus is also a linear switch but stands out for its medium weight and bright, resonant sound, offering a bouncy feeling with each keystroke. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal depending on personal 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Crystal and the HMX Lotus both offer unique characteristics in terms of their housing materials. The Crystal features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, creating a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Lotus utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound.
While the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the HMX Lotus differ in terms of polycarbonate and nylon, both materials offer distinct advantages. The polycarbonate used in the Crystal creates a clear and resonant sound, ideal for those looking for a sharper typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon in the Lotus absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller typing sound. Both materials have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound profiles.
It's important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play a significant role in the overall typing experience. The qualities of the housing material will impact the sound and feel of pressing down on the switch, as well as releasing the key. With the Crystal featuring polycarbonate top and bottom housings, and the Lotus utilizing nylon for both, the typing experience will be influenced by the distinct characteristics of each material. Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Crystal and the HMX Lotus will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Outemu Crystal has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly heavier than the HMX Lotus with a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Outemu Crystal will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience compared to the lighter touch of the HMX Lotus. Those who prefer a lighter typing feel may be more inclined towards the HMX Lotus, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may prefer the Outemu Crystal. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Crystal offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lotus, giving a bit more depth when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Lotus provides a shorter travel distance, which may result in faster response times and a more responsive feel, preferred by many gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - if you prefer a deeper feel when typing, the Crystal may be the better option, but if you prioritize quick response times, the Lotus would be the way to go. Both switches offer a balance between travel distance and responsiveness, providing a satisfying typing or gaming experience.
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 Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is characterized by a chirpy and high-pitched profile, offering a unique typing experience with a touch of squeakiness. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus linear switch remains unknown in terms of sound description. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can be influenced by various factors including the keyboard's build and keycaps used.
In regard to feel, the Outemu Crystal switch is recognized for its polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing sensation with reduced friction and effortless key travel. Conversely, information about the feel of the HMX Lotus switch is not available at this time. It is important to note that the tactile experience of a switch plays a crucial role in overall typing comfort and efficiency.
In conclusion, while both the Outemu Crystal and HMX Lotus linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, the lack of information on the Lotus switch makes it difficult to provide a direct comparison. However, based on the available details, if you enjoy a chirpy, high-pitched sound and a polished, smooth feel, the Outemu Crystal linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. Remember to consider your personal preferences and typing style when selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, consider your personal preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-light, linear typing feel with a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Crystal switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light, bouncy typing feel with a bright, resonant sound, the HMX Lotus switch could be more suited to your preference. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you value most.
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