HMX Gravel vs. Outemu Lotus

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often seek the perfect combination of feel, responsiveness, and performance. The HMX Gravel, a notable linear switch, is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing experience, providing a medium-light actuation force that ensures a responsive and effortless typing session. This makes it an attractive option for those who prioritize comfort and fluidity in their typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus, also a linear switch, offers its own unique qualities that might cater to different preferences, though specific standout features aren’t as widely recognized. Both switches appeal to users looking for a consistent keystroke without tactile feedback, making them ideal for both gaming and typing applications. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

HMX Gravel Linear

Outemu Lotus Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Gravel and the Outemu Lotus feature distinct materials in their top housings, leading to different acoustic profiles for each switch. The Gravel utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for its stiffness and translucence. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for users who prefer clear, resonant key presses that can be enhanced with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Lotus incorporates nylon in its top housing. Nylon's softer properties create a deeper and fuller sound profile, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. Consequently, while the Gravel's polycarbonate offers clarity and brightness, the Lotus leans towards a warmer, more muted sound.

In terms of their bottom housings, both the HMX Gravel and the Outemu Lotus employ the same material: nylon. This choice ensures that both switches deliver a similar foundational typing experience, characterized by a deep and full sound profile. The nylon's softer nature means it will absorb sound, making bottom-out effects less sharp and more subdued. This shared use of nylon in the bottom housing leads to a consistent sensation when keys are pressed, as both switches will produce a similar tactile response at the point of impact, regardless of the differing top housing materials.

Ultimately, the contrasting top bathsons of the Gravel and Lotus will define the nature of the switches' sound during operation, while their shared nylon bottom housing provides a cohesive foundation for the tactile experience. Users can expect that while the Gravel will offer a bright and resonant key release, the Lotus will deliver a softer and rounder tone, with both switches delivering rich sound profiles from their nylon bottoms. This synergy between different housing materials allows for a tailored typing experience, catering to personal preferences for sound and feel in mechanical switches.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, both options present a similar bottom out force of 50 grams, meaning that they provide a consistent resistance when pressed fully down. However, they differ in their actuation force; the Gravel switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, while the Lotus switch features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams. This distinction makes the Lotus a more suitable option for those who prefer a quicker, less strenuous keystroke, perfect for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. Conversely, users who appreciate a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Gravel switch due to its heavier actuation force. Thus, while both switches offer the same bottom out force, the actuation forces contribute to a distinct typing experience between the two.

Travel distance

The HMX Gravel linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Lotus linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This indicates that the Gravel provides a deeper feel when pressed down, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feedback during key presses. On the other hand, the Lotus with its shorter travel distance offers a snappier response, making it a better choice for gamers seeking quick actuation. Both switches reflect the trend of shorter travel distances in newer designs, but the Gravel is better suited for those who appreciate a more traditional and hearty depth, whereas the Lotus caters to those who prioritize speed and responsiveness. Ultimately, the Gravel is the longer switch, while the Lotus is the shorter option.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX Gravel linear switch delivers a relatively quiet typing experience, which makes it suitable for both office environments and home use. Its smooth operation minimizes any audible feedback, contributing to a discreet and pleasant typing atmosphere. Conversely, the Outemu Lotus linear switch does not have a specific sound profile indicated, which means its acoustic characteristics remain undetermined. However, since the sound of linear switches is often influenced by the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used, the overall noise level may not differ significantly if other components are chosen wisely.

Turning to the feel, the HMX Gravel switch is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness, providing a refined and enjoyable typing sensation. Its medium-light actuation force leans toward the lighter side, ensuring a responsive and effortless experience that many typists appreciate. On the other hand, no specific information is available about the feel of the Outemu Lotus switch. This lack of detail means it may range anywhere from smooth to less refined, making it difficult to compare directly in this regard.

Overall, while the HMX Gravel linear switch stands out with its renowned smoothness and ideal actuation force, the Outemu Lotus linear switch remains an unknown, particularly regarding its sound and feel. If you prioritize a soft, smooth typing experience, the Gravel is a stronger choice. However, if sound and feel are pertinent factors, further exploration of the Lotus may be necessary, as its qualities remain undefined. Selecting either could lead to a satisfying experience, provided you take into account the compatibility with your keyboard setup.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Gravel and the Outemu Lotus linear switches, it’s essential to consider your typing preferences and intended use. The HMX Gravel switch stands out due to its exceptional smoothness and refined typing experience, making it an excellent choice if you value responsiveness and a silky feel while typing or gaming. If you enjoy a keyboard that feels effortless and offers a pleasant tactile experience without being too heavy, the Gravel’s medium-light actuation force, coupled with its smooth feedback, is ideal. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a straightforward linear switch without specific distinguished features or if you are on a tighter budget, the Outemu Lotus may serve your needs adequately. Although it does not have notable characteristics like the Gravel, it can be a functional choice for casual use. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize a polished feel and responsiveness, or if you're satisfied with a more generic switch for everyday tasks while keeping budget considerations in mind.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Gravel Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Lotus Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more