HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. HMX Lucky
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the HMX Lucky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and HMX Lucky both stand out as exceptional linear options, yet they cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Lotus (Heavy), with its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g and bright, resonant sound, delivers a super bouncy feel that elevates every keystroke into a delightful experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy a bit of heft when typing. On the other hand, the HMX Lucky offers a lighter touch with its softer, glittery nylon housings, providing a neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience that appeals to users seeking a more delicate and fluid keystroke. While both switches are linear and streamline the typing process with their smooth key presses, their differing weights and tactile sensations make them suitable for different typing styles and preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on which switch is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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-staged spring
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the HMX Lucky both utilize nylon for their top and bottom switch housings, which leads to a striking similarity in their acoustic profiles. As both models employ nylon, they share characteristics such as generating a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing. This is largely attributed to nylon being a softer plastic compared to harder alternatives, which inherently absorbs more sound. Consequently, this results in a rounder, less sharp sound when keys are pressed and released. Given this shared material, users can expect a consistent auditory experience across both switch models.
While both the Lotus (Heavy) and Lucky utilize identical nylon materials for both the top and bottom housing, it is essential to note that the tactile experience may differ slightly based on the overall design and feel of the switches beyond just the housings. The bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound during key release. However, since both models feature the same nylon material, fluctuations in sound and tactile feedback will largely stem from their respective switch designs rather than the raw materials themselves.
Ultimately, the consistent use of nylon in both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the HMX Lucky ensures that users can anticipate a familiar sound profile and typing sensation, regardless of which model they choose. Given that the same housing materials are employed, those seeking a particular auditory experience will find that both switches will deliver similar results. This shared foundation of nylon housing serves as a common thread, allowing for an exploration of additional features or designs that may distinguish each switch while maintaining the underlying acoustic integrity that nylon provides.
Weight
The HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch present distinct differences in actuation and bottom out forces, catering to varying preferences among users. The Lotus (Heavy) requires an actuation force of 55 grams and has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, making it a heavier option that provides a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Lucky boasts a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, allowing for easier keystrokes, which can be particularly beneficial for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Thus, while the Lotus (Heavy) is geared towards those who favor a firmer push, the Lucky appeals to individuals seeking a lighter feel. The differences in force reflect their intended use cases, making the Lotus a more demanding option and the Lucky a more forgiving one for prolonged use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, it is clear that they differ, with the Lotus offering a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm and the Lucky providing a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. The 3.5 mm distance of the Lotus makes it a better option for gamers seeking quicker response times, aligning with the trend toward shallower travel distances for enhanced performance. Conversely, the Lucky's 3.8 mm travel distance may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial and cushioned feel during key presses, as it provides a little more depth than the Lotus. Ultimately, choosing between the two comes down to personal preference, with the Lotus being the shorter option for those favoring responsiveness and the Lucky catering to those who appreciate a deeper key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The HMX Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch produces a bright and resonant tone that stands out during typing or gaming sessions. This auditory characteristic contributes to an engaging experience, as the pronounced sound can enhance the tactile feedback of each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Lucky switch is designed to offer a softer sound, which may provide a quieter typing experience overall. Ultimately, while the Lotus switch delivers an audible feedback that many users may find energizing, the Lucky switch leans toward a more subdued and tranquil sound profile, allowing for a different overall ambiance, which can also be influenced by the choice of board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch stands out with its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, providing a super bouncy sensation with each keystroke. This weight and responsiveness can make typing feel robust and springy, offering an engaging experience that many enthusiasts appreciate. Conversely, the HMX Lucky switch, with its lighter weight and softer nylon housing, provides a typing experience that is described as neutral yet deeply satisfying. This means that while the Lucky switch may not deliver the same bouncy sensation as the Lotus (Heavy), it offers a smooth and comfortable feel that is equally enjoyable for those who prefer a lighter touch.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and HMX Lucky linear switches have their unique sound and feel characteristics, they cater to different preferences. The Lotus excels in providing a bright, resonant sound and a super bouncy feel, perfect for users who enjoy a heavier switch that adds excitement to their typing experience. In contrast, the Lucky switch offers a softer sound and a lightweight, neutral experience that is satisfying in its own right. Depending on your personal preferences—whether you crave an auditory punch or a lighter, more subdued experience—you can choose the switch that aligns with your typing style, knowing that each has its distinctive appeal.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the kind of feel you desire in your keyboard experience. If you prefer a more pronounced and bouncy keystroke, the Lotus (Heavy) with its medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5 grams will provide you with a satisfying and robust feedback, making it ideal for users who enjoy a more tactile and resonant sound. This switch is particularly well-suited for those who type vigorously or want a keystroke that feels substantial under their fingers. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter, smoother typing experience that is neutral and deeply satisfying, you should opt for the HMX Lucky switch. Its lighter bottom out force of 43 grams allows for effortless typing, making it a great choice for long typing sessions or gaming where speed is crucial. Ultimately, your choice should reflect how you balance weight and sound preferences to find the best fit for your unique style.
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