Huano Grape Orange vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Grape Orange and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) both present unique experiences tailored to different types of users. The Grape Orange is renowned for its ultra-low actuation force of just 40g, providing a remarkably light and effortless typing experience that is particularly beneficial for those who engage in long typing sessions, such as writers or programmers. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) offers a more robust sensation with its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, delivering a bouncy feel and a bright, resonant sound that can enhance the tactile feedback for typists who crave a more pronounced keystroke. While the Grape Orange excels in providing comfort and ease, the Lotus (Heavy) shines in delivering a lively auditory and tactile response. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Grape Orange Linear

HMX Lotus (Heavy) Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Grape Orange to that of the HMX Lotus (Heavy), distinct differences in their top housings emerge. The Grape Orange features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This results in a more resonant and articulated sound, which is particularly advantageous for enhancing RGB lighting due to its translucency. Conversely, the Lotus (Heavy) utilizes a nylon top housing, recognized for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a muted and rounded auditory experience. This contrast indicates that while the Grape Orange’s design prioritizes brightness and clarity, the Lotus (Heavy) leans towards warmth and depth.

Examining the bottom housings reveals that both the Grape Orange and the Lotus (Heavy) share nylon as their material of choice. This commonality leads to a deeper, fuller sound profile produced by both switches when typing. The absorption characteristics of nylon ensure that, regardless of the differences in their top housings, both switches will deliver a similar sound quality from the bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon helps in eliminating sharp noises and enhancing the overall tactile feel upon bottoming out. Consequently, while the Grape Orange may offer crisper sounds when the keys are released, the rounder tones of the Lotus (Heavy) resonate throughout both switches.

Ultimately, the combined characteristics of the housing materials define the overall auditory and tactile experience offered by each switch. In the Grape Orange, the stiff polycarbonate top and soft nylon bottom together create a unique blend of clarity and depth, producing a balanced typing experience. Meanwhile, the Lotus (Heavy), with its entirely nylon construction, delivers a consistently deeper and richer sound profile throughout. The notable difference in top housing materials provides a distinct flavor to each switch, but the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that both switches maintain a similar foundational sound quality. Thus, while the experience is unique for each switch, the integration of nylon guarantees that a certain level of auditory warmth is present, regardless of the differences in their top housings.

Weight

The Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch display notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces, catering to distinct user preferences. The Grape Orange features a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it easier to press and ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) has a stronger actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, providing a more substantial and firm typing experience that some users may prefer. While the Grape Orange is the lighter switch overall, the Lotus (Heavy) offers a heavier feel that might be favored by those seeking greater resistance. Consequently, those who prefer quick, effortless keystrokes will find the Grape Orange more suitable, whereas users who appreciate a stronger tactile response will gravitate towards the HMX Lotus.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, the Grape Orange measures 3.6 mm, while the Lotus (Heavy) is slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This means that the Grape Orange offers a deeper press, which can provide a more substantial feedback for those who prefer a heartier feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the slightly shorter travel distance of the Lotus (Heavy) can lead to quicker actuation, catering to gamers who seek rapid response times. Ultimately, if you're someone who enjoys a more pronounced keypress, the Grape Orange would be the better option, whereas if you value speed and responsiveness, the Lotus (Heavy) might be more suitable for your needs.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Huano Grape Orange linear switch is notably quiet, which makes it an excellent choice for environments where noise can be an issue, allowing for discreet typing. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch produces a bright and resonant sound. This difference in auditory feedback can play a significant role in how users experience their typing, with the Grape Orange suited for those who prefer a more muted approach, while the Lotus (Heavy) caters to those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic response.

When it comes to feel, the Grape Orange switch offers an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience with an actuation force of just 40g, making it suitable for longer sessions without causing fatigue. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) features a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g that provides a bouncy sensation, adding a layer of tactile encouragement to each keystroke. This creates a pronounced contrast where the Grape Orange excels in lightness and ease, while the Lotus (Heavy) brings a satisfying resistance that some typists may find more rewarding.

Ultimately, both the Grape Orange and HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Grape Orange is ideal for users prioritizing quietness and a light touch, perfect for extended typing sessions. Meanwhile, if you favor a bouncier feel and a more resonant sound, the Lotus (Heavy) might be the better fit. Your choice will depend largely on whether you value a subtle auditory experience paired with easy keystrokes or a more dynamic feedback combined with a more pronounced typing sound.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you value a light and effortless typing experience, especially if you're engaging in extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, then the Grape Orange, with its low actuation force, is an excellent option. It provides a smooth and responsive feel, allowing you to type quickly without much fatigue, which makes it perfect for long hours of use. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial keystroke and enjoy a tactile element in your typing, the Lotus (Heavy) is likely to be more appealing. Its medium-heavy bottom out force offers a satisfying resistance, coupled with a bright and resonant sound, which not only enhances the typing experience but also provides a delightful bounce to each keystroke. Therefore, by considering how you primarily use your keyboard and what typing sensation you crave, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

HMX Lotus (Heavy) Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more