TKC Kiwi vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TKC Kiwi and the HMX Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note the key differences between the two. The Kiwi switch is a tactile switch designed to offer a medium to medium-strong bump at each key press, delivering a satisfyingly snappy sound profile for an immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Lotus switch from HMX provides a linear feel with a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, offering a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. While the Kiwi switch focuses on enhancing typing experience with its tactile feedback, the Lotus switch aims to provide a smooth and consistent typing feel. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and the HMX Lotus both have unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound signature of the switches. The UHWMPE top and bottom housing of the Kiwi results in a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks while typing, creating a crisp and sharp typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon top and bottom housing of the Lotus provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound. While both materials offer unique typing experiences, the Kiwi's UHWMPE housing leans towards a brighter and more precise sound, while the Lotus's nylon housing creates a deeper and more mellow sound profile.
Despite their differences, both the TKC Kiwi and the HMX Lotus housing materials offer their own advantages in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The UHWMPE housing of the Kiwi provides a bright and resonant sound when typing, while the nylon housing of the Lotus offers a deeper and fuller sound profile with a softer feel. However, both materials are relatively newer compared to traditional switch housing materials, providing users with a chance to explore different sound signatures and tactile feedback. Overall, whether you prefer the brighter and crisper sound of the Kiwi or the deeper and fuller sound of the Lotus, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and the HMX Lotus may differ, the impact of each material on the overall sound signature of the switches is significant. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, impacting the tactile feedback and overall typing experience when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key, adding to the overall sound profile and typing feel. Therefore, whether you prioritize the bottom-out sound or the sound upon key release, the housing materials of both switches play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, we find some significant differences. The Kiwi has a higher actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Lotus's 45 grams, making the Kiwi slightly lighter to press down initially. However, the Kiwi also has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Lotus has a lower bottom out force of 50 grams, making the Lotus lighter to press all the way down. This means that the Kiwi provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel overall, while the Lotus offers a lighter touch for smoother typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Lotus linear switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Kiwi tactile switch. A shorter travel distance is often preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying and deliberate key press. Both switches offer varying options for different preferences, with the Kiwi providing a slightly longer travel distance than the Lotus. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 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 TKC Kiwi tactile switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a satisfyingly snappy and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the HMX Lotus linear switch is not available. Ultimately, the sound produced by a switch can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the TKC Kiwi is described as having a stepped, accented, and polished feel, providing a medium-strong bump at the top of each keystroke for a smooth and refined typing experience. In comparison, there is no available information about the feel of the HMX Lotus linear switch. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience, with the Kiwi offering a more tactile feel while the Lotus likely provides a linear and bouncy feel.
Overall, for a newcomer looking to enhance their typing experience, both the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Kiwi provides a tactile experience with a low-pitched sound and polished feel, the Lotus is likely to offer a linear, bright sound with a bouncy feel. By understanding these subjective qualities, users can make an informed decision based on their preferred typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium to medium-strong tactile bump with a snappy sound profile and medium-bottom-out force, then the Kiwi switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force with a super bouncy feeling and bright, resonant sound, then the Lotus switch may be more suitable for your typing preferences. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and typing experience when making your decision to ensure that you choose the switch that best suits your needs.
Mentioned in this article
