HMX KD200 vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the world of mechanical keyboards, choosing the right switch can significantly enhance your typing experience, and two notable options from HMX stand out: the HMX KD200 and the HMX Lotus (Heavy). The KD200, renowned as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, offers a distinctive auditory feedback that can add an enjoyable layer to your typing, making it a great choice for those who appreciate a pronounced sound profile. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) boasts a medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g and a bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feel that adds a delightful tactile dimension to every keystroke. Both switches cater to different preferences—while the KD200 might appeal more to those who value auditory feedback in their typing experience, the Lotus (Heavy) may attract users who seek a balance of weight and responsiveness. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Ly
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 single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX KD200 and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) are strikingly similar, as both feature nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This shared choice of material invites a comparison in how these switches might perform acoustically and tactilely. Nylon is known for its softer composition, which contributes to a fuller and deeper sound profile. This acoustic characteristic emerges from nylon's ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect similar auditory experiences when utilizing either the HMX KD200 or the HMX Lotus (Heavy), as both are designed to yield a rich and immersive typing experience.
Delving deeper into the individual components, both the KD200 and Lotus (Heavy) switches possess nylon top housings that affect the sound profile, particularly during the release phase of a key press. Similarly, both switches feature nylon bottom housings that influence the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback. Since nylon naturally absorbs vibrations, it minimizes the harshness that might otherwise be present with firmer materials. Consequently, the similarity in the materials used for both the top and bottom of each switch ensures that users will derive comparable tactile feedback and acoustic results from both switches, making either choice a viable option for those seeking a rounded typing experience.
While the HMX KD200 and HMX Lotus (Heavy) share identical housing materials that enhance both sound and feel, individual user preferences might come into play when choosing between the two models. Factors such as switch actuation point, overall design, and intended usage might influence a user's decision. However, it is important to note that, due to the consistent use of nylon in both models, users can anticipate a level of uniformity in the auditory and haptic performance across both switches. Essentially, regardless of which switch is selected, users will enjoy the characteristic deep sound and satisfying tactile feedback that nylon provides, ensuring a consistently enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, clear distinctions emerge. The KD200 features a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable choice for extended typing sessions or gaming due to its lighter feedback. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) demands a stronger push, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Thus, the KD200 is the lighter option, while the Lotus (Heavy) provides a heavier feel. Users seeking a switch that allows for more effortless typing should lean towards the KD200, whereas those desiring a firmer response should consider the Lotus (Heavy).
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch is identical, with both switches featuring a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that users will experience the same key feel when pressing down on either switch, as they both require the same distance to actuate from the top to the bottom. Therefore, if you prefer one over the other based on tactile feedback or other characteristics, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance between the two switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX KD200 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the KD200 for $3.29.
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 KD200 is renowned for being the clackiest switch within the HMX Film switch family, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a pronounced auditory feedback when typing. Its distinctive sound profile can create an engaging and loud typing experience, perfect for users who enjoy a more expressive audio element in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) features a bright and resonant sound, providing a different auditory experience that complements its medium-heavy weight. The sound of both switches, while distinct, can be influenced by various factors, including the keyboard construction and keycap materials, meaning that users can achieve a personalized acoustic profile with both options.
Moving on to the feel, the HMX KD200’s tactile profile offers a captivating typing experience that aligns with its clacky sound, making it appealing for users who seek feedback during every keystroke. Its feel can be described as crisp and responsive, allowing for a satisfying typing rhythm. Conversely, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) boasts a super bouncy sensation due to its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g. This provides a unique tactile feedback that makes every key press delightful, potentially providing a more cushioned experience compared to the firmer KD200. Despite their differences in weight and tactile response, both switches aim to offer an enjoyable feel, placing emphasis on the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, while the HMX KD200 and HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switches exhibit some differences in sound and feel, both offer their unique charms for typing enthusiasts. The KD200 stands out with its clacky response, making it ideal for those who favor auditory feedback, while the Lotus (Heavy) provides a resonant and bouncy feel that caters to individuals seeking a pleasurable typing experience with medium resistance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback, as both can provide satisfying results depending on the user’s desires.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch largely depends on your typing style and preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a lighter touch with an engaging and clacky sound, the KD200 is likely the better option for you. Its bottom-out force of 50 grams allows for quick and effortless keystrokes, making it suitable for fast-paced typing and gaming, where a responsive feel is essential. On the other hand, if you appreciate a bit more resistance and desire a bouncier, more tactile experience, the Lotus (Heavy) switch, with its 62.5 grams bottom-out force, might be more to your liking. This switch offers a bright, resonant sound and a medium-heavy weight that provides satisfying feedback, ideal for those who enjoy a more deliberate typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you value speed and lightness or a more controlled and bouncy keystroke.
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