HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Gateron Lunar Probe each offer unique attributes catering to different preferences. The Lotus (Heavy) is celebrated for its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g and bright, resonant sound, delivering a super bouncy feel that enhances the joy of every keystroke. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy tactile feedback and an immersive typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Lunar Probe features a novel dual rail mechanism, ensuring stable and consistent keypresses. These switches are pre-lubed to provide an incredibly smooth linear sensation with a subtle sound signature, making them an excellent choice for users who prioritize quiet operation and seamless key travel. Both switches offer excellent performance, appealing to various typing styles; 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Gateron Lunar Probe, a significant distinction arises from the choice of materials used for the top housing. The Lotus (Heavy) utilizes nylon, a softer plastic known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This characteristic is attributed to nylon's ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a duller and rounder acoustic experience. In contrast, the Lunar Probe features a top housing made of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that yields a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The clarity and resonance offered by polycarbonate not only enhance the auditory feedback during typing but also contribute to a bright visual appeal, especially when accompanied by RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Interestingly, both the Lotus (Heavy) and the Lunar Probe employ nylon for their bottom housings. Since nylon is a classic material frequently used in mechanical switches, the bottom housing of both switches will share similar qualities. When typing on either switch, users will experience a deeper and fuller sound profile attributed to the nylon bottom housing. This consistency means that while the top housings produce different auditory effects, the sound and feel of pressing the keys (the bottom-out experience) will have a shared essence. The nylon material's inherent acoustic properties ensure that both switches deliver a rich typing experience despite the variances in their top housing materials.
Ultimately, the distinct characteristics of the top housings in the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and Gateron Lunar Probe lead to contrasting sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Lotus (Heavy) excels in providing a fuller, more muted sound due to its nylon top, while the Lunar Probe’s polycarbonate top offers a crisper and more resonant audio cue. However, when it comes to the overall typing experience, both switches will still provide a satisfying depth of sound thanks to their identical nylon bottom housings. Therefore, while the auditory profiles differ between these two switches, a user can expect similar acoustic richness during key presses, illustrating how housing materials impact both the nuanced and the overall typing experience in mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces become apparent. The Lotus (Heavy) features a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, indicating a stronger push feel, which can be preferable for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Lunar Probe is noticeably lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for long typing sessions or gaming marathons due to reduced fatigue. Therefore, the Lunar Probe is the lighter option, while the Lotus (Heavy) is the heavier alternative. These differences imply that while both switches serve the same purpose, their tactile feedback and overall typing experience will vary, appealing to different user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, the Lotus features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Lunar Probe extends slightly longer at 3.6 mm. This makes the Lotus (Heavy) the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel, which may be preferred by gamers seeking quicker reaction times. In contrast, the Lunar Probe, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial keypress, offering a slightly deeper experience. Ultimately, while both switches provide a comparable range, the minor difference in travel distance makes the Lotus (Heavy) a better choice for those prioritizing speed, whereas the Lunar Probe caters to users who prefer a more traditional depth in their keypresses.
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 Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch produces a bright, resonant sound that engages enthusiasts with its lively auditory feedback. This sound quality not only adds a distinct character to the typing experience but also creates a sense of satisfaction with each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch features a more subtle sound signature, which leans towards a quieter, smoother auditory experience. This pairing of a muted sound profile with its innovative dual rail mechanism favors a less obtrusive atmosphere while typing, ideal for quiet environments or for users who prioritize a subdued keystroke sound.
When it comes to the tactile experience, the Lotus (Heavy) offers a super bouncy feeling that comes from its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, making each keypress feel lively and engaging. This adds a tactile satisfaction that can make typing and gaming alike feel almost effortless. Conversely, the Gateron Lunar Probe promises an incredibly smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation that contributes to a fluid typing experience. While both switches offer a distinct feel, the Lotus leans towards a more responsive interaction, while the Lunar Probe focuses on delivering a seamless glide, catering to different preferences within the linear switch spectrum.
Overall, both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and Gateron Lunar Probe linear switches present unique auditory and tactile experiences that will resonate differently with users depending on their preferences. Whether you favor the lively auditory feedback and bouncy feel of the Lotus or the subtle sound and smoothness of the Lunar Probe, there is a clear distinction between the two. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on whether you prioritize an engaging sound and enhanced responsiveness or a quieter, ultra-smooth typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch that provides a medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5 grams, along with a vibrant sound and a distinct bouncy feel, the Lotus (Heavy) is an excellent choice. This switch can be particularly appealing if you enjoy a tactile experience that makes every keystroke feel lively and dynamic, which is ideal for gaming and spirited typing sessions. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 50 grams, the Lunar Probe switch is likely more suited to your needs. Its smooth linear action, paired with Gateron's novel dual rail mechanism, offers a consistently stable keypress, making it perfect for extended typing or for those who prefer a more effortless keystroke without straining their fingers. The subtle sound signature of the Lunar Probe also enhances your experience in quieter environments, ensuring that you can type without distraction. So, whether you're drawn to the lively characteristics of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) or the silky smoothness of the Gateron Lunar Probe, each switch has its own unique appeal that caters to different preferences and usage scenarios.
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