HMX Jelly vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the HMX Jelly and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Jelly and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Jelly is celebrated for its low-pitched, deep thocky sound signature and super smooth feel, complemented by a lightweight actuation force of just 42g, making it ideal for those who prioritize a gentle and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) features a medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g, producing a bright, resonant sound that delivers a delightful, bouncy response with each keystroke. While the Jelly excels in providing a soft and quiet typing experience, the Lotus (Heavy) favors a more tactile feedback and audible sound that enhances every press. Both switches have their unique appeal—whether you prefer the smooth and subtle touch of the Jelly or the pronounced feedback of the Lotus (Heavy). 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
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX Jelly and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) feature a nylon top and bottom housing, which leads to a very similar overall sound profile and typing experience. The use of nylon as a switch housing material in both models results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing, attributed to nylon's softer composition. This inherent property allows the switches to absorb sound effectively, creating a duller and rounder acoustic quality compared to harder plastics. The consistency in housing materials across both the Jelly and Lotus (Heavy) means that users will enjoy a uniform auditory experience, characterized by rich tones and minimized harshness.
While the housings of both the HMX Jelly and HMX Lotus (Heavy) boast nylon construction, it is important to consider the possibility of variations in design or internal mechanisms that could impact their performance subtly. In terms of sound absorption and overall feel, the fact that both switches utilize the same nylon material ensures that the user will experience similarly gratifying feedback while typing. Regardless of any unique features or adjustments found in each switch, the foundational acoustic characteristics provided by the nylon housing result in comparable sound profiles, thus ensuring a satisfying experience for typists seeking muted yet rich sound responses.
Moreover, the effect of the top and bottom housing qualities will be evenly distributed in both the Jelly and the Lotus (Heavy). The nylon bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed all the way down, while the nylon top housing primarily impacts the sound when the key is released. In this way, users can expect a balanced and cohesive response from both switches, regardless of any design nuances. The consistent use of nylon throughout both models promises a seamless typing experience, leading to an environment that is not only acoustically pleasing but also ergonomically satisfying.
Weight
The HMX Jelly linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch present distinct feel and performance characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Jelly switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize comfort and longer typing sessions. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) requires a stronger actuation force of 55 grams and has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, catering to those who appreciate a more substantial and tactile feel with their presses. As a result, the Jelly switch is ideal for users seeking a lighter option for extended use, while the Lotus switch appeals to individuals who prefer the more pronounced resistance associated with heavier switches. Overall, these differences highlight the importance of selecting a switch that aligns with personal typing preferences and usage scenarios.
Travel distance
The HMX Jelly linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference of 0.3 mm indicates that the Jelly provides a deeper press, catering to those who may favor a more substantial tactile experience. Conversely, the Lotus (Heavy) offers a more responsive option for users who prioritize quick keystrokes, making it potentially better suited for fast-paced gaming scenarios. While both switches are below the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance, the Jelly's greater depth might appeal to individuals who enjoy a more pronounced key press. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) aligns with the trend towards reduced travel distances, catering to users seeking efficiency and rapid feedback. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal preference for either depth or speed in your typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Jelly has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jelly for $2.99.
The HMX Lotus (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus (Heavy) for $2.99.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Jelly switch showcases a low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature that provides a satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. This contributes to a more muted yet engaging feedback during typing. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch offers a brighter, more resonant sound that adds a lively character to each press. The differing sound profiles make these switches ideal for different preferences; while the Jelly may appeal to those seeking a more subdued acoustic environment, the Lotus (Heavy) may suit users looking for a more vibrant and energetic typing experience. It’s important to note that the sound quality can also vary depending on the choice of keyboard, materials, and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Jelly switch is renowned for its super smooth operation, largely attributed to its excellent factory lubrication, and its lightweight actuation force of 42g makes it easy to type with minimal resistance. This smoothness translates into a pleasant and effortless typing experience, ideal for long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Lotus (Heavy) switch boasts a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g and provides a bouncier feel that enhances tactile feedback. This increased resistance can lend a sense of control and precision, making it appealing for those who prefer a firmer keypress, especially during gaming or fast-paced typing.
In summary, while both the HMX Jelly and HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switches offer enjoyable typing experiences, they cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. The Jelly aims for a deeper, thocky sound alongside a light and smooth action, while the Lotus (Heavy) delivers a brighter auditory feedback combined with a bouncier, more resistant feel. Ultimately, choosing between them will come down to personal taste regarding sound profile and the desired typing sensation, as each switch's unique characteristics can significantly influence your overall experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, consider your typing style, preferences for sound and actuation force. If you prefer a lightweight switch that offers a smooth feel along with a low-pitched, deep sound, the Jelly is an excellent choice. Its 42g actuation force means less effort with each keystroke, making it ideal for long typing sessions or if you enjoy quick, fast-paced gaming. On the other hand, if you favor a more substantial feel and a brighter, more resonant sound, the Lotus (Heavy) is likely to suit you better. With a 62.5g actuation force, it provides a noticeable tactile feedback and a bouncy sensation that can enhance your overall typing experience. The added weight may feel more satisfying for those who enjoy a firmer keystroke, especially in gaming scenarios where precision is key. Ultimately, your choice should align with how you prioritize sound, weight, and feel in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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