HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the HMX Macchiato switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and HMX Macchiato provide distinct yet appealing experiences for different types of users. The Lotus (Heavy), with its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, is celebrated for its bright, resonant sound and a bouncy feedback that makes typing engaging and enjoyable. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato, developed by YG Studio, focuses on delivering a silky smooth typing experience accompanied by a bright sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize fluidity over tactile feedback. Both switches are linear, ensuring a consistent keystroke without tactile bumps, but they cater to different preferences in feel and sound. Whether you value the satisfying bounce of the Lotus or the smooth elegance of the Macchiato, each switch has unique qualities to offer. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the HMX Macchiato switches showcase a noteworthy similarity in their housing materials, specifically with both featuring nylon for both their top and bottom housings. This consistency between the two models suggests that typing on these switches will elicit a similar sound profile that is characterized by a deeper and fuller tone. The use of nylon, a softer plastic compared to harder materials, enhances the switches' acoustic properties by absorbing sound, thereby ensuring a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing.
Despite sharing identical housing materials, the two switches may still present distinct feel and sound dynamics due to variations in their design or internal components. Typically, the bottom housing of a switch plays a critical role in determining the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, while the top housing influences the sound and sensation of releasing the key. Therefore, even with both switches using nylon for their housings, they could potentially provide different experiences based on how their internal mechanisms are configured, which may affect actuation points and overall responsiveness.
In summary, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and HMX Macchiato benefit from the acoustic and tactile advantages of nylon housing, which lays the foundation for a similarly satisfying typing experience. While the materials are the same, factors such as switch design and internal mechanics will ultimately define the user's interaction with each switch. This indicates that while the core auditory qualities may align closely between the two models, the nuanced experience of typing could still differ due to underlying characteristics, ensuring that enthusiasts can find their preferred balance in finger feel and sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, there is a distinct difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Lotus (Heavy) requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, compared to the lighter 42 grams of the Macchiato, making the Lotus more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel during typing. This robust tactile feedback can enhance the typing experience for users who favor substantial key presses. In terms of bottom out force, the Lotus also outmatches the Macchiato, with a bottom out force of 62.5 grams versus the Macchiato’s 50 grams. This further emphasizes the heavier characteristics of the Lotus switch. Consequently, while the Macchiato is a lighter switch, ideal for extended typing sessions due to its lower resistance, the Lotus (Heavy) caters more to users who enjoy a firmer and more definitive keystroke experience. Thus, users will need to choose based on their preference between a lighter and more fatigue-friendly option versus a heavier switch that provides more resistance and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Macchiato linear switch features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference in travel distance suggests that the Lotus (Heavy) is designed for a more responsive experience, appealing to those who prefer quicker keystrokes for activities like gaming. On the other hand, the Macchiato, with its greater depth, may be more suited to users who enjoy a feeling of sturdiness and a more substantial feedback when typing. Thus, if you prioritize rapid response times, the shorter 3.5 mm travel distance of the Lotus (Heavy) is the better choice; conversely, for a deeper, more deliberate typing experience, the 4 mm travel distance of the Macchiato would be more satisfying.
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 Macchiato has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Macchiato 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 HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch is characterized by a bright, resonant sound that adds an engaging auditory presence to each keystroke, making every typing session feel dynamic. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato also features a bright sound profile but is tailored for those who appreciate an exceptionally silky smooth typing experience. While both switches share a certain brightness in sound, the specific acoustics will ultimately depend on factors such as choice of keyboard and keycaps, which can influence the overall audio experience.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) offers a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g that delivers a super bouncy sensation, creating a lively and responsive typing experience that can be quite satisfying. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato prioritizes a silky smoothness, which may lend itself to a different tactile experience, focusing more on a gliding movement rather than the bounce. While the Lotus provides an added weightiness and bounce that some typists prefer, the Macchiato's smoothness caters to those who value a more effortless keystroke.
In summary, while both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and Macchiato linear switches provide a bright sound profile, they distinguish themselves through their unique tactile qualities. The Lotus (Heavy) is noted for its bouncy and heavier feel, while the Macchiato excels in delivering a smooth and effortless typing experience. Depending on individual preferences, either switch can lead to a fulfilling typing sensation; however, the choice will ultimately depend on whether one favors a more engaging bounce or a gentle glide.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the HMX Macchiato linear switches, your personal preferences and typing style should guide your decision. If you enjoy a medium to slightly heavier actuation force and a bouncy, delightful keystroke experience, the Lotus (Heavy) is likely the better choice for you. Its bright, resonant sound and sturdy feel can provide an engaging typing environment, especially if you find satisfaction in tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a smoother typing experience, the Macchiato linear switch is an excellent option. Its lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams offers a more effortless keystroke while maintaining a bright sound profile that adds a touch of liveliness to your typing. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your specific preferences for weight, sound, and feel to ensure that your mechanical keyboard experience is enjoyable and tailored to your needs.
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