HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Durock Mamba 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 the Durock Mamba present two appealing options for enthusiasts of linear switches, each with its unique characteristics and benefits. The Lotus (Heavy) stands out with its medium-heavy actuation weight of 62.5g, delivering a bright, resonant sound and a bouncy tactile feedback that can make typing feel invigorating and responsive. In contrast, the Durock Mamba pays homage to basketball legend Kobe Bryant, offering a smooth gliding sensation during use, enriched by a creamy auditory experience that many users find satisfying. While the Lotus appeals to those seeking a more pronounced feedback and tactile joy, the Mamba caters to individuals who appreciate a more refined, polished typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Durock Mamba exhibit both shared characteristics and distinctions that significantly influence their acoustic profiles and tactile responses. Both switches utilize nylon for their top housing, which is a well-regarded material known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon in the Lotus (Heavy) contributes to a sound that is rounded and duller due to its softness, effectively absorbing sound waves. Meanwhile, the Mamba's top housing blends nylon with UHMWPE, resulting in a sound profile that is notably brighter yet still pleasant, characteristic of its unique polymer blend. In essence, while both utilize nylon in their top housings, the Lotus (Heavy) leans towards a deeper sound, whereas the Mamba introduces a brighter tonal quality.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the two switches present a different approach to sound and feel. The Lotus (Heavy) employs nylon for its bottom housing, reinforcing the switch's overall deep and rich sound profile. This contributes to a muted bottom-out sound while reinforcing the tactile feedback associated with each key press. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba features a POM bottom housing, recognized for generating a pleasing and relatively deeper sound. The POM material, which is generally harder than nylon, allows for a different tactile experience, with a unique sound signature that is more muted compared to the softer nylon. Thus, while both switches are constructed with materials designed to enhance sound, the Lotus (Heavy) leans towards warmth, while the Mamba's POM contributes to a different sonic element.
Ultimately, the interplay of these materials results in nuanced differences in tactile feedback and acoustic properties when in use. The Lotus (Heavy), with its consistent use of nylon throughout, delivers a coherent sound profile that emphasizes depth, ideal for users seeking a softer, more immersive typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Mamba's combination of nylon and POM creates a dynamic sound experience, where the harder POM helps achieve a brighter top-out sound while maintaining a deeper bottom-out feel thanks to the nylon. Both switches, despite their differences, can offer satisfying performances that cater to various typing preferences, ensuring users can achieve distinct auditory experiences based on their construction.
Weight
The HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch present interesting comparisons in terms of their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lotus (Heavy) has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, while the Mamba's actuation force is unspecified, but it features a bottom out force of 60 grams. This unknown actuation force for the Mamba presents a gap in the comparison, but the available information indicates that the Lotus (Heavy) has a clearly defined and moderate actuation experience. When considering bottom out force, both switches are relatively close, with the Mamba being slightly lighter at 60 grams compared to the Lotus (Heavy)'s 62.5 grams. Consequently, the Lotus (Heavy) will provide a heavier typing experience overall, making it preferable for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Mamba, arguably a slightly lighter option due to its lower bottom out force, may be a better fit for users seeking a switch that allows for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. If with additional information, the actuation force of the Mamba was known to be similar to the Lotus, one could expect similar typing dynamics in both cases, but as it stands, the differences highlight distinct user preferences.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which means they provide identical feedback when pressed. This equal travel distance ensures that users will experience a similar keystroke feel and actuation response with both switches. As a result, users looking for consistent performance across their keyboard can confidently choose either switch without worrying about differences in travel distance impacting their typing experience. Since both switches have the same specifications in this regard, they'll deliver comparable results in terms of keypress length and overall feel.
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 Durock Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
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) switches produce a bright and resonant auditory experience, providing a lively character to each keystroke that can be both engaging and stimulating. In contrast, the Durock Mamba switches offer a more neutral sound profile complemented by a thocky resonance, creating a deep, rich, and satisfying auditory feedback upon actuation. This thocky quality enhances the overall typing experience, providing a pleasant landing that many users find desirable. While both switches deliver distinct auditory sensations, the Lotus offers a brighter sound while the Mamba leans towards a more muted, yet deep thock, making them suitable for different preferences in acoustic environments.
In terms of feel, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) presents a super bouncy sensation with a medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g, enhancing the tactile interaction with each keystroke. This bounciness can deliver a pleasurable tactile feedback that makes typing feel lively and responsive. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba switches offer a mild feel, characterized by a gentle typing experience that is approachable to a variety of users. Additionally, the polished nature of the Mamba switches contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience, minimizing friction and allowing for effortless key travel. While the Lotus emphasizes a more energized interaction, the Mamba offers a more laid-back and smooth experience that some may find more comfortable over extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and Durock Mamba linear switches present compelling options with unique auditory and tactile characteristics. If you prefer a bright, resonant sound and a lively, bouncy feel, the Lotus will provide a delightful typing experience. Alternatively, if you're inclined towards a deep, thocky sound and a smooth, mild feel, the Mamba could be the right choice for you. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, and both options could cater to different typing styles while delivering satisfying results in their respective ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a more dynamic and bouncy feel while typing, the HMX Lotus (Heavy), with its medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5 grams and bright, resonant sound, can enhance your typing experience with its delightful feedback. This switch is ideal for users who appreciate a robust keystroke and the engaging sound profile it brings, making it suitable for intense typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more refined typing experience, complemented by a mild sound profile that is approachable for both beginners and seasoned typists alike, the Durock Mamba switch might be the better choice for you. With its polished feel and creamy auditory feedback, the Mamba invites a gentle yet satisfying typing experience that is perfect for prolonged use, whether you're working, gaming, or just enjoying the tactile sensations of a well-crafted switch. In the end, your decision should reflect what feels more comfortable and enjoyable for your personal style of typing.
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