KTT Laurel vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Laurel and HMX Lotus both stand out as popular linear options. The KTT Laurel is praised for its medium-light feel, full POM housing, short travel distance, and long pole design, striking a balance between responsiveness and comfort while also offering a subtly low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus boasts a medium weight of 50g bottom out, providing a super bouncy feeling with its bright, resonant sound for a delightful typing experience. Each switch offers unique benefits - the Laurel for its snappy feel and low-pitched sound, and the Lotus for its bouncy sensation and bright 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The KTT Laurel and the HMX Lotus both feature unique housing materials that impact the sound profile of the switches. The Laurel's POM housing creates a pleasing and deeper sound profile that is more muted compared to other materials. In contrast, the Lotus's nylon housing also offers a deep and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. Both switches provide a different tactile experience, with the Laurel offering a unique sound when letting go of a key, while the Lotus provides a distinct sound on the bottom-out.
While the Laurel and Lotus both offer a deep and pleasing sound profile, their housing materials differ in composition and impact. The POM housing in the Laurel provides a uniquely muted sound that is still deep in tone, while the nylon housing in the Lotus offers a fuller sound that is also deeper. The softer nature of nylon allows for a duller and rounder sound compared to the slightly sharper sound of POM. Despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles.
In terms of the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, the bottom and top housings play different roles in determining the sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing of a switch, whether it is POM or nylon, has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing, with its unique material properties, influences the sound that occurs when a key is released. While the Laurel and Lotus may have different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, both switches aim to provide a delightful typing experience with their distinct sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, both switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, making them equal in that aspect. However, the Laurel has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Lotus's 45 grams. This difference may result in a slightly different typing experience, with the Laurel requiring a lighter touch to register key presses. Individuals who prefer a lighter feel may lean towards the Laurel, while those who prefer a slightly more substantial typing experience may opt for the Lotus. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively light typing experience, suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Laurel linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that whether using the Laurel or the Lotus switch, users can expect consistent results in terms of the key press experience. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is identical, making them equally suitable options for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a linear switch with a 3.5 mm travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, the Laurel switch offers a low-pitched sound profile and a snappy feel. This means that users can expect a more bass-heavy and mellow sound from the Laurel switch, along with a super responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Lotus switch provides a bright, resonant sound and a bouncy feeling with a medium weight of 50g bottom out. While the sound and feel of these switches may differ, both offer a unique typing experience that can cater to different preferences. It's important to consider personal preferences, typing style, and the overall setup of your keyboard when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, whether you choose the Laurel or Lotus switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience that meets your individual needs.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the KTT Laurel linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, consider the following guidelines: Choose the KTT Laurel if you prefer a light bottom out force, a medium-light linear switch, and a low-pitched sound profile for a more mellow typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the HMX Lotus if you enjoy a bouncey feeling with a medium weight of 50g bottom out, a bright and resonant sound, and a snappy typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the KTT Laurel and HMX Lotus switches will depend on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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