Zuoce Lavender vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Lavender and the HMX Lotus both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Lavender, a linear switch, is well-known for its exceptional smoothness right out of the box, thanks to its proprietary Ly blend. This switch provides a crisp and clacky sound signature, making each keystroke a satisfying experience. On the other hand, the Lotus, also a linear switch, offers a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound that provides a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. Both switches have their own strengths and reasons why you might choose them, whether it be for an easy-to-press feel or a delightfully bouncy typing experience. 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
48g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Lavender and HMX Lotus both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Lavender utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. On the other hand, the Lotus uses nylon for its housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Despite the difference in materials, both switches offer a deeper sound profile, but the Lotus may have a slightly fuller sound due to the nylon construction.
The use of POM in the Lavender's housing material offers a unique sound experience characterized by its deep and muted profile. In contrast, the Lotus's nylon housing provides a fuller and deeper sound when typing on the switches. The qualities of the bottom housing material are felt more prominently when pressing down on the switch, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Although both switches offer a pleasant sound experience, the choice between POM and nylon will ultimately depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing feel.
In summary, the Zuoce Lavender and HMX Lotus differ in their choice of housing materials, with the Lavender using POM and the Lotus using nylon. Both materials contribute to a deeper sound profile, but the Lotus may offer a slightly fuller sound due to the properties of nylon. The impact of the housing material is felt differently depending on whether it is used for the top or bottom housing of the switch, affecting the overall typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for sound profile and typing sensation.
Weight
Comparing the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, the actuation force of the Lavender is slightly heavier at 48 grams compared to the 45 grams of the Lotus. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lavender requires 53 grams while the Lotus requires 50 grams. This makes the Lotus switch overall lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Lavender. The difference in weight between the two switches can affect typing and gaming experiences for users. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Lotus for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, while users who enjoy a bit of resistance may opt for the Lavender for a more substantial typing feel. Both switches, however, offer a similar experience due to their close actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for typing and gaming comfort.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular for their faster response times, particularly among gamers. The difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be significant for most users, as it is a small margin that may not be noticeable in actual usage. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of how much depth and feedback you prefer while typing. For those who prefer a slightly longer travel distance, the Lotus switch may be the better option, while those who prefer a slightly shorter travel distance may opt for the Lavender switch. However, both switches offer similar results and performance overall.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch is known for its crisp and clacky sound signature, providing a distinct and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus linear switch offers a bright and resonant sound that contributes to a super bouncy feeling with a medium 50g bottom-out weight. When it comes to feel, the Lavender switch is easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate, resulting in a comfortable and effortless typing experience. Unfortunately, information about the feel of the HMX Lotus switch is not available. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities in sound and feel that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users will get a satisfying typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and sound signature. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 53 grams and a crisp, clacky sound, the Lavender switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and a bouncy, resonant sound, the Lotus switch could be more suitable. Additionally, take into account the feel of the switches, with the Lavender offering an easy-to-press experience while the Lotus provides a super bouncy feeling. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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