Keygeek Keylin vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, choosing the right switch can profoundly affect your typing experience. The Keygeek Keylin, a linear switch, is celebrated for its premium typing feel thanks to innovative molds that offer exceptional smoothness and rich acoustics, making every keystroke an enjoyable experience. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy), also a linear switch, stands out with its medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g and a bright, resonant sound that delivers a satisfying bouncy sensation with each press. While the Keylin may appeal to those who prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience, the Lotus (Heavy) can attract users looking for tactile feedback and a more pronounced auditory response. Both switches have their unique selling points, making them suitable for different preferences in typing style and sound. 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
38g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
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
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Keygeek Keylin and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) demonstrate a preferred consistency in their construction, as both keyboards utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings. Nylon’s properties play a significant role in defining the acoustic and tactile experience of any switch. Specifically, this classic material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Since the switches in both models are constructed from nylon, users can expect a similar auditory environment, marked by a duller and rounder sound. This shared material choice ensures that the overall typing experience remains relatively uniform between the two keyboards.
Despite the identical housing materials, the impact of those materials on the performance of the switches may exhibit subtle differences. Since the Keylin and Lotus (Heavy) use nylon for both the top and bottom housings, the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch will largely reflect the characteristics of the bottom housing, while the top housing will influence the sound that is created when the key is released. In practice, since both models feature nylon for these components, users can anticipate a cohesive sound profile during both presses and releases. However, any differences in their individual designs or internal mechanisms could introduce nuances to the tactile and auditory feedback.
Ultimately, while the Keygeek Keylin and HMX Lotus (Heavy) share the same housing materials—nylon for both the top and bottom—they may still provide distinct user experiences depending on factors such as design intricacies and switch configurations. Nevertheless, the commonality of the nylon material ensures that a fundamental quality of richness and depth in sound typifies both keyboards. As such, whether one opts for the Keylin or Lotus (Heavy), the expected outcomes in terms of sound profiles will likely align closely, creating a reliable foundation for diverse typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Keylin switch boasts a light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter, more effortless typing experience ideal for long work sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) switch requires a stronger actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial, tactile feedback while typing. As a result, the Keylin is the lighter option, while the Lotus (Heavy) is heavier. These differences mean that users will experience varying levels of resistance and feedback with each switch, allowing them to select based on personal preference for typing feel and comfort during extended use.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch exhibit a slight difference in travel distance, with the Keylin measuring 3.6 mm and the Lotus (Heavy) at 3.5 mm. This makes the Keylin the longer option by just 0.1 mm, which may provide a marginally deeper feel for those who enjoy a more substantial keypress. Shorter travel distances, like that of the Lotus (Heavy), are often favored by gamers seeking quicker response times, while others may find the Keylin's slightly longer distance adds to a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, while the difference is minimal, those who prefer a more responsive feel might gravitate towards the HMX Lotus, while those who enjoy a deeper depth may opt for the Keygeek Keylin.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin 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 Keylin linear switches are noted for their rich acoustics, delivering a fuller auditory experience that enhances the overall typing atmosphere. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switches offer a bright and resonant sound profile, which can add a lively character to keystrokes. While both switches have their strengths in sound performance, the final auditory result will be influenced by the specific keyboard build and keycap materials you choose, allowing for a degree of customization in acoustic feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Keygeek Keylin switches are recognized for their exceptional smoothness, which contributes to a premium typing experience that is satisfying and uninterrupted. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches feature a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, imparting a super bouncy sensation with every press. This can make for a more dynamic typing experience, especially favored by users who appreciate tactile feedback. Each switch offers a unique feel, appealing to different preferences, whether you lean towards the silky smoothness of the Keylin or the engaging bounce of the Lotus.
In conclusion, while the Keygeek Keylin switches excel in providing a smooth and rich auditory experience, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches shine with their bright sound and bouncy feel. Both switches cater to distinct preferences in sound and tactile feedback. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a luxurious typing experience or a more energetic, responsive feel with each keystroke. Since sound can be influenced by various external factors, both switch types will likely yield enjoyable results in their unique ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences for force, feel, and sound. If you prefer a lighter touch and want a smooth and premium typing experience with a rich acoustic profile, the Keylin switch is the way to go. Its bottom-out force of 48 grams makes it ideal for those who enjoy quick, responsive keystrokes, particularly in fast-paced typing scenarios or gaming environments. On the other hand, if you're seeking a bit more resistance and a tactile engagement with each keystroke, the Lotus (Heavy) may be your best bet. With its 62.5-gram bottom-out force and a bright, resonant sound, it offers a satisfying bounce that transforms every hit into a more deliberate action, making it well-suited for those who enjoy a more substantial feel in their typing. Ultimately, your decision should reflect what feels best under your fingers and aligns with your typing style—light and swift with the Keylin or weighted and resonant with the Lotus (Heavy).
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