HMX Deep Navy vs. Outemu Lotus

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference, and two notable options are the HMX Deep Navy and the Outemu Lotus, both of which are linear switches. The Deep Navy switch is designed with a full nylon construction, offering a rich, sharp sound profile that enhances the tactile experience while providing a silky smoothness with each keystroke, thanks to its Ly stem. This makes it an excellent choice for users who appreciate auditory feedback alongside a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus, while less publicized in terms of distinctive features, is still favored for its linear action, which can provide a quieter typing experience suitable for both gaming and office environments. Each switch shines in its own right; Deep Navy captivates with its sound and smoothness, while the Lotus offers straightforward functionality with a more understated profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Deep Navy Linear

Outemu Lotus Linear

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Deep Navy and the Outemu Lotus both utilize nylon for their switch housings, both top and bottom, which results in remarkably similar acoustic characteristics. Nylon is celebrated as a classic switch housing material largely due to its softer properties that contribute to a fuller and rounder sound profile during typing. This acoustic advantage is evident in both switches, as the nylon's capacity to absorb sound enhances the overall typing experience by muffling sharper noises. Consequently, users can expect a pleasingly muted auditory feedback that is equally consistent across both models, enriching the tactile sensation of each keystroke.

While the housing materials of the Deep Navy and the Outemu Lotus are identical—both using nylon for both the top and bottom housings—the way these materials interact with each other is critical to the switches' sound characteristics. In switches where the top and bottom housings differ, the acoustic experience would be influenced by the combination of materials, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound upon release. However, since both the Deep Navy and the Lotus employ the same nylon material in both sections, users can expect a coherent sound signature throughout their typing dynamics, which leads to a consistently satisfying experience both when the key is pressed and when it is released.

Ultimately, the uniform use of nylon in both the HMX Deep Navy and the Outemu Lotus creates a reliable foundation for performance and sound. Users can confidently predict similar auditory feedback and tactile sensations, as nylon is known to absorb sound effectively, making both switches feel equally robust while maintaining that deeper sound profile. The result is a versatile typing experience, perfect for both casual use and more focused tasks, regardless of the branding associated with each model. Whether typing on the Deep Navy or the Lotus, the enjoyment derived from their nylon build will prove notably alike, ensuring that the choice between the two comes down to personal preference rather than material performance.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Deep Navy linear switch to the Outemu Lotus linear switch, we see both similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Deep Navy switch has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Lotus switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 50 grams. This indicates that the Lotus switch is overall lighter in terms of actuation, requiring less force to register a keystroke, which can be advantageous for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, the Lotus switch also has a higher bottom out force, meaning it requires more pressure to register a full press compared to the Deep Navy. Therefore, while both switches fall under the category of light switches, they cater to different preferences: the Deep Navy offers a more balanced experience with its actuation and bottom out forces, whereas the Lotus provides a lighter actuation with a heavier bottoming experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, clear differences emerge. The Deep Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Lotus features a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Given this difference, gamers who prioritize quicker response times may gravitate towards the Lotus, as its shorter distance can facilitate faster key presses. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming might prefer the Deep Navy's longer travel distance, which offers a deeper and more satisfying keypress. Overall, choosing between these two switches depends largely on individual preferences regarding responsiveness and key feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX Deep Navy linear switch offers a rich and sharp sound profile, making it a notable option for those who value auditory feedback in their typing experience. This distinctive sound is particularly enhanced by its full nylon construction, contributing to a satisfying acoustic character. Conversely, details about the Outemu Lotus linear switch's sound profile are currently unknown. Since sound is influenced by other factors such as the keyboard setup and keycap material, users may still achieve a sound to their liking with the Lotus, but specifics remain elusive.

In terms of feel, the Deep Navy switch is celebrated for its silky smoothness, a trait imparted by the Ly stem design that promises a fluid keystroke experience. This smooth action is ideal for users who appreciate an uninterrupted typing rhythm. Meanwhile, the feel of the Outemu Lotus linear switch is not specified, leaving potential users without clear guidance on what tactile feedback they might expect. Regardless, many linear switches provide a similarly linear and consistent feel that could satisfy users looking for smoothness.

In conclusion, while the HMX Deep Navy switch stands out with its defined auditory character and smooth keystroke feel, the Outemu Lotus linear switch lacks identifiable qualities in both areas. The Deep Navy's crafted sound and silky typing experience are clear advantages, while the Lotus remains an enigma in its sound and feel. For newcomers, choosing the Deep Navy guarantees an enjoyable experience, while the Lotus may still yield satisfactory results depending on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you lean towards a lighter feel with a bottom-out force of 45 grams and appreciate a rich, sharp sound profile, the Deep Navy switch might be your best option. Its full nylon construction contributes to an experience of silky smoothness that enhances your keystrokes, making it particularly suitable for extended typing sessions where comfort is a priority. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer feel with a 50-gram bottom-out force, you might find the Lotus switch to be more to your liking, especially if you're engaged in gaming where responsiveness is crucial. While the Lotus lacks the distinctive sound and smoothness of the Deep Navy, it still provides a reliable option for those who favor a more substantial keypress. Consider your priorities—whether they lean toward auditory feedback and smoothness or a firmer tactile resistance—as this will guide you in selecting the switch that best fits your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Deep Navy Linear

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Lotus Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more