Gateron Ink Red vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Red and the HMX Lotus (Heavy), both of which are linear switches but offer distinct experiences. The Gateron Ink Red is celebrated for its incredibly light actuation force, making it an ideal choice for typists who prefer a feather-light touch. Its satisfyingly smooth feel combined with a crispy and clacky sound profile creates an enjoyable typing experience that appeals to many users. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) provides a more robust typing sensation with its medium-heavy resistance of 62.5g, lending a bouncy quality to each keystroke that many gamers and writers appreciate. While the Lotus excels in providing a bright, resonant sound that enhances the tactile feedback, the Ink Red stands out for those who favor a more effortless and delicate typing style. Both switches have unique advantages 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

Gateron Ink Red Linear

HMX Lotus (Heavy) Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When examining the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the HMX Lotus (Heavy), notable differences emerge between their compositions and resultant acoustic profiles. The Gateron Ink Red utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings, producing a distinctive sound characterized by a pointed, higher-pitched clack. This blend, while unique and optimized for that specific auditory response, highlights a less absorbent nature than alternatives. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) employs nylon as its housing material, which is known for its softer properties. This results in a deeper, rounder sound due to the nylon's ability to absorb sound waves more effectively than harder plastics.

The impact of these material differences is particularly pronounced in the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback experienced with each switch. The Gateron Ink Red, with its INK blend, gives a high-pitched sound profile that is crisp during both key presses and releases, fostering an energetic typing experience. Meanwhile, the nylon in the Lotus (Heavy) contributes to a fuller and more muted acoustic feedback, allowing for a softer landing feel on key release. As a result, typists may find themselves drawn to different auditory and tactile sensations based on their preferences, with the Ink Red catering more to those who enjoy sharper, clackier keys, while the Lotus (Heavy) appeals to users seeking a smooth, resonant typing experience.

Despite these distinct characteristics, both the Gateron Ink Red and HMX Lotus (Heavy) can offer satisfying results, albeit in varying auditory contexts. For users who may desire aspects of both designs, it is conceivable to achieve a hybrid effect by incorporating different lubing techniques or keycap designs that may interact with the respective housings. Although the materials and resultant sounds are inherently different, the overall user experience can be tailored to provide individual preferences in sound and feel, ensuring that both options bring a unique advantage to different typists based on their personal inclinations.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, we see distinct differences in their actuation forces, though their bottom out forces are relatively close. The Gateron Ink Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it the lighter option, while the HMX Lotus (Heavy) requires a stronger 55 grams to register a keystroke. This disparity in actuation force means that the Ink Red is more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch, ideal for long typing sessions or extended gaming. In terms of bottom out forces, the Ink Red reaches 60 grams, compared to the Lotus's 62.5 grams. Though both switches fall within a medium range, the overall heavier feel of the Lotus (Heavy) provides a more substantial typing experience, which may be preferable for those who enjoy a firmer push. Therefore, users looking for a lighter switch would benefit from the Gateron Ink Red, while those who favor a bit more resistance may opt for the HMX Lotus (Heavy).

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, it is clear that they differ significantly. The Ink Red boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option and more traditional in design. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter and aligns with the current trend towards reduced travel distances that many gamers favor for quicker responsiveness. While the Lotus may provide a more immediate feel due to its shallower depth, some users might find this abruptness less appealing compared to the more pronounced depth of the Ink Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding the balance between responsiveness and the tactile experience of key presses.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound qualities of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, the Ink Red stands out with its unique characteristics. It features a crispy and clacky sound profile that gives a lively auditory feedback during typing, coupled with a chirpy note that adds an interesting acoustic dimension. This makes the Ink Red suitable for a variety of environments, whether you are working from home or in an office setting. In contrast, the sound profile of the Lotus (Heavy) is characterized by a bright, resonant tone, which likely contributes to a more energetic and engaging experience. However, specific sound descriptors for the Lotus switches are not provided, making a direct comparison difficult. Sound is inherently influenced by additional factors like the choice of board and keycaps, so users can achieve desirable auditory experiences with both switches depending on their setup.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Red switch excels with a silky smoothness that offers an exceptionally refined typing experience. This quality ensures minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys, providing a polished and gentle typing experience that is approachable for most users. The Ink Red’s mild and polished traits enhance its overall smoothness, making it ideal for those who appreciate a seamless feel while typing. The HMX Lotus (Heavy), on the other hand, is designed with a medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g, resulting in a bouncier feel that adds a lively character to each keystroke. While this may be exciting for users who enjoy a more tactile response, specific descriptors for the Lotus switches' feel are not available, preventing a complete evaluation in comparison to the Ink Red.

In conclusion, while the Gateron Ink Red and HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switches each offer unique characteristics in both sound and feel, they cater to different typing experiences. The Ink Red is ideal for those who prefer a lighter and smoother typing sensation paired with a cheerful sound profile, whereas the Lotus (Heavy) will appeal to users seeking a springy and resonant experience. By selecting the right board and keycaps, enthusiasts can certainly fine-tune the sound and feel of either switch to suit their preferences, ensuring they enjoy an optimal typing experience tailored to their individual styles.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, consider your typing style and preferences. If you prefer a lighter, effortless typing experience, the Ink Red with its smooth, polished feel and chirpy sound profile could be your best fit, especially if you find yourself typing for long periods or enjoy a more relaxed key press with a satisfying response. On the other hand, if you are someone who appreciates a bit more weight in your keystrokes and enjoys a subtle bounce with each press, the Lotus (Heavy) is likely to enhance your typing experience with its slightly heavier actuation force and bright, resonant sound. This makes it ideal for those who want a more pronounced tactile feedback and a lively sound profile. Ultimately, your choice should reflect what you find most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing habits—whether that's the silky smoothness of the Ink Reds or the delightful bounce of the HMX Lotus switches.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

HMX Lotus (Heavy) Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more