KTT Kang White vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Kang White and the HMX Lotus both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Kang White is a linear switch with a poppy typing sound and unparalleled smoothness due to its self-lubricating material. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus is also a linear switch but with a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound that provides a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. While the Kang White is known for its low-pitched and neutral qualities, the Lotus falls into a different category. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Kang White and HMX Lotus switches play a significant role in determining the sound profile of the switches. The Kang White features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound. In contrast, the Lotus has a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. While polycarbonate is known for its stiffness and resonance, nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. These differences highlight how the choice of housing material can impact the overall typing experience.
Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to the deeper and fuller sound profile characteristic of nylon. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, affecting the overall typing experience. While the top housing might have a more pronounced impact on the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing influences the tactile feedback and overall typing sound. Despite this similarity in bottom housing material, the differences in the top housing materials of the Kang White and Lotus switches result in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the use of different housing materials in the KTT Kang White and HMX Lotus switches results in unique sound profiles that cater to varying preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Kang White creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Lotus produces a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to the overall typing experience. By understanding the impact of housing materials on sound profiles, keyboard enthusiasts can make informed decisions when choosing between these two switches based on their preferred typing experience.
Weight
The KTT Kang White linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them both light in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Kang White requires 58 grams, while the Lotus only needs 50 grams. This means that the Lotus switch is lighter overall compared to the Kang White switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Lotus switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Kang White switch provides a more substantial typing feel with a heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing pressure and key feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Kang White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Lotus linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Kang White has a longer distance to travel compared to the Lotus. The 4.0mm distance of the Kang White is more traditional, providing a deeper keystroke feel, which may be preferred by some users. On the other hand, the 3.5 mm distance of the Lotus offers a shallower keystroke, making it a popular choice for gamers seeking quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for key travel distance – whether one prefers a longer, more substantial press or a shorter, more responsive touch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 per 10 switches.
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
When it comes to sound, the Kang White linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral tone, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow sound that is suitable for various settings and users. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus linear switch is known for its bright and resonant sound, adding a bouncy feeling to each keystroke. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience, with the Kang White leaning towards a smoother and more soothing sound, while the Lotus offers a more energetic and lively typing sound.
In terms of feel, specific information about the tactile experience of the Kang White and Lotus switches is not available. However, given that the Kang White is praised for its self-lubricating material that results in smooth typing, it can be inferred that users will likely experience a buttery and effortless key press. The HMX Lotus, characterized by a medium weight of 50g bottom out, promises a moderate yet satisfying typing feel that gives each key press a delightful bounce. Overall, both switches offer qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of typing feel, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their typing style.
In conclusion, the KTT Kang White linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch each bring their unique characteristics to the table in terms of sound and potentially feel. While the Kang White offers a low-pitched, smooth typing experience, the Lotus provides a bright, bouncy sound for a more energetic typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel, with both switches offering a high-quality typing experience that can elevate the overall enjoyment of using a mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Kang White linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, consider the bottom out force preference that suits your typing style best. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 58 grams and enjoy a poppy linear switch with a dazzling typing sound, then the Kang White switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and a super bouncy feeling with a bright, resonant sound, then the Lotus switch from HMX would be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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