Kailh BCP vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the Kailh BCP and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh BCP and HMX Lotus both represent exceptional linear options, yet each offers a unique experience that caters to different user preferences. The Kailh BCP is renowned for its innovative design, drawing inspiration from the iconic Black Cherry Pies to create a creamy, viscous, and bouncy feel without the messy disassembly associated with traditional switches. Users often appreciate the signature poppy and clacky sound profile that adds a dynamic character to their typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus stands out with its medium weight of 50g at bottom out, delivering a bright, resonant sound and an exhilaratingly bouncy feel with every keystroke, making it a favorite for both gamers and typists alike. While the BCP leans towards a more playful auditory experience, the Lotus emphasizes a satisfying tactile feedback that enhances the act of typing. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
20mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Kailh BCP and the HMX Lotus switches share a commonality in their material composition, as both feature nylon for their top and bottom housings. This consistent use of nylon contributes to a unique sound profile characterized by a deeper and fuller resonance, enhanced by the material's inherent softness. Both switches exhibit a sound dampening effect due to nylon’s ability to absorb noise, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. Consequently, users of either switch can expect similar acoustic properties, ensuring a comparable typing experience that is rich and satisfying.
While the BCP and Lotus both employ nylon for their housing components, the impact of this similarity extends to both the tactile sensations and the bottom-out acoustics of the switches. The nylon material of the bottom housing plays a crucial role in influencing how the switch feels upon actuation, as it generally absorbs impact and reduces harshness. In contrast, the top housing primarily shapes the sound when the key is released. This shared use of nylon means that users can anticipate a consistent level of sound quality and tactile feedback, regardless of which switch they choose, thereby implying an alignment in user experience across both models.
Despite their identical housing materials, the Kailh BCP and HMX Lotus might differ in other characteristics such as spring tension, actuation force, or tactile feedback, but the fundamental sound behavior remains consistent due to the nylon construction. Each switch will produce a similarly pleasant soundscape when typing, marked by a subdued and full-bodied sound signature. This convergence in material choice implies that even if subtle variances exist in the overall design or feel, the acoustic performance is likely to resonate in a similar manner, making either switch a compelling choice for those seeking an enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh BCP linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, we see notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The BCP switch features a medium-heavy actuation force of 52 grams, in contrast to the lighter actuation force of 45 grams from the Lotus. This means that users who prefer a lighter touch may find the HMX Lotus more suited for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it requires less effort to trigger a keystroke. Furthermore, the bottom out force for the BCP is 63.5 grams, again heavier than the Lotus's 50 grams, indicating a more pronounced resistance when fully pressing down the switch. Consequently, the Kailh BCP linear switch will provide a more substantial typing experience, preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Ultimately, if you value a lighter switch for comfort and longer use, the HMX Lotus would be the better option, while those seeking a firmer tactile sensation might gravitate towards the Kailh BCP.
Travel distance
Both the Kailh BCP linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch have an identical travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that users can expect a similar feel and performance when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. Since both switches travel the same distance from top to bottom, they will provide comparable tactile feedback and response, yielding a consistent typing or gaming experience. In this case, there is no shorter or longer travel distance, making both options equally effective for those seeking a linear switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
The HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus 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
The Kailh BCP linear switch has a signature poppy and clacky sound profile, which contributes to an engaging typing experience. Its unique design eliminates the typical disassembly hassles often associated with mechanical switches, allowing users to enjoy a clean sound without the usual complications. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus switch features a bright, resonant sound that stands out with each keystroke. While both switches promise a satisfying auditory feedback, the BCP's clackiness may appeal to those who enjoy a lively sound, whereas the Lotus's resonant quality could attract users looking for a more pronounced and crisp auditory experience. Keep in mind that the overall sound can also be influenced by your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh BCP switch is known for its creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy sensation. This creates a typing experience that is not only enjoyable but also responsive, allowing a smooth glide during use. In contrast, the HMX Lotus switch also emphasizes a bouncy feeling with a medium weight of 50g at bottom-out, making every key press feel delightful and satisfying. While both switches share a focus on a bouncy sensation, the BCP's particular elasticity and creaminess may offer a different kind of pleasant experience compared to the straightforward, delightful bounciness of the Lotus.
In conclusion, both the Kailh BCP and HMX Lotus linear switches cater to users looking for a satisfying typing experience, yet they each provide distinct auditory and tactile characteristics. The BCP leans towards a poppy sound with a creamy, elastic feel, while the Lotus offers a bright resonance accompanied by a bouncy keypress. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users could find joy in either option, with both switches delivering excellent performance in their own right. Therefore, it ultimately comes down to which qualities resonate most with the individual user.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Kailh BCP linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal typing preferences and the kind of experience you seek. If you enjoy a heavier switch with a tactile pop and a unique sound profile, the BCP's medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams combined with its creamy, bouncy feel will likely enhance your typing experience, especially if you’re accustomed to more resistance during key presses. The BCP's clacky sound adds character to your keystrokes, making it perfect for users who want a switch that stands out not just in feel but also in auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter action and enjoy a bright, resonant sound, the HMX Lotus switch, with its 50 grams of bottom-out force, will provide a super bouncy sensation that might be more comfortable for extended typing sessions or gaming. Its lighter feel can allow for quicker, more effortless key presses, which can be appealing for fast-paced scenarios. Ultimately, consider trying both switches if possible to see which one complements your typing style and makes your keyboard experience more enjoyable.
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