HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular linear options stand out: the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the PH Studio Milk Tea. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch offers a robust weight of 62.5g, delivering a tactile, bouncy sensation with every keystroke, complemented by a bright, resonant sound that makes typing feel satisfying and engaging. On the contrary, the PH Studio Milk Tea switch, manufactured by BSUN, provides a more nuanced auditory experience, characterized by a high-pitched yet muted sound that strikes a delicate balance between presence and subtlety. This switch utilizes Ly as its stem material, which contributes to an effortlessly smooth typing experience. Both switches have unique appeal: the Lotus (Heavy) is perfect for those who enjoy a heavier, more responsive action, while the Milk Tea is ideal for users seeking a more refined auditory and tactile profile. 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
37.5g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches, both utilize plastics that contribute to their unique sound profiles but differ in their specific properties and effects. The Lotus (Heavy) features a nylon top and bottom housing, which is renowned for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer material composition. This softness allows nylon to absorb more sound, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Milk Tea switch incorporates POM (polyoxymethylene) for its top and bottom housings. POM is known for its pleasing sound profile, which leans toward a muted and unique tone, while still maintaining some depth. While both housing materials aim for a fuller sound profile, the nylon of the Lotus might provide a rounder finish compared to the POM's crisp, yet muted character.
The impact of these housing materials extends beyond sound; they also influence the tactile feel of each switch. For both the Lotus (Heavy) and the Milk Tea, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out feel and sound, which is significant when it comes to typing experience. Given that both switches feature nylon for the Lotus and POM for the Milk Tea in their bottom housings, it is reasonable to anticipate a substantial difference in the bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom of the Lotus is likely to deliver a softer landing experience, absorbing impact effectively, while the POM bottom of the Milk Tea could provide a more responsive, albeit slightly sharper, feel. This dichotomy showcases how the variations in material affect not only the auditory feedback but also the overall tactile sensations during use.
Ultimately, while the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches utilize different materials for sound absorption and tactility—nylon versus POM—they can yield similar outcomes if one prioritizes sound depth. Users may find that, despite the differences in sound profile characteristics, both switches can deliver an engaging typing experience. Those who prefer muted sounds may appreciate the POM's offerings, while admirers of a fuller sound might lean towards the nylon switches of the Lotus. Both switches are designed to produce deeper sound profiles, allowing for an enjoyable typing experience with their respective materials, thus highlighting the myriad of choices available to enthusiasts based on personal preference.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, there are notable differences. The Lotus (Heavy) requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, categorizing it as a medium force switch. In contrast, the Milk Tea switch is significantly lighter, with an actuation force of just 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams, making it a light switch. This means that typists who prefer a more substantial feel and tactile feedback may gravitate towards the Lotus switch for its heavier push, advantageous for those seeking a more pronounced typing experience. Conversely, users who favor lighter switches for extended typing periods or gaming sessions are likely to prefer the Milk Tea switch due to its lower force requirements. Overall, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) offers a heavier resistance that caters to a different user preference compared to the more nimble feel of the PH Studio Milk Tea switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, we find that the Lotus (Heavy) has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Milk Tea measures slightly longer at 3.6 mm. This indicates that the Milk Tea switch provides a marginally longer press, which some users might find more satisfactory for a deeper typing experience. For those who prefer quicker response times, the shorter travel distance of the Lotus might be more appealing, as it allows for faster actuation. Nonetheless, the difference between the two switches is minimal, and both can deliver a satisfying typing experience depending on personal preference. In summary, if you're inclined towards a shorter and more responsive feel, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is the choice, while the PH Studio Milk Tea offers a bit more depth with its longer travel distance.
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 PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch is known for its bright and resonant auditory profile, which creates an engaging and lively experience with each keystroke. This sharp sound can make typing feel more dynamic and expressive. In contrast, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a distinct auditory blend that is characterized by a high-pitched yet muted sound. This creates a balance between presence and subtlety, making it less intrusive while still providing an enjoyable auditory response. The Milk Tea's sound is further described as clacky and marbly, contributing to its crisp, clean resonance, which enhances the overall typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch is praised for a super bouncy sensation, which adds a layer of delight to every keystroke. This medium-heavy weight encourages a responsive feel that many typists find appealing. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea switch exhibits a polished and silky texture that emphasizes a smooth and refined typing experience. The materials used and/or factory lubing contribute to reduced friction and key travel, leading to an effortless action when typing. While both switches provide enjoyable typing experiences, they cater to different preferences in tactile sensation.
In summary, if you're considering these two linear switches, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) offers a vibrant sound and a bouncy feel, making it a great option for those who enjoy an expressive typing experience. Conversely, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch excels with its high-pitched, muted sound and smooth, polished feel, appealing to those who prefer a subtler auditory experience coupled with refined keystrokes. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to your personal preferences for sound and feel, but both are designed to provide a fulfilling typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switches largely depends on your typing preferences and the typing experience you're looking for. If you enjoy a more pronounced, bouncy feel and prefer a switch that provides delightful feedback with a medium-heavy actuation force, then the Lotus (Heavy) with its bright, resonant sound and lively tactile response would be a suitable choice. This makes it an excellent option for those who appreciate a more engaging auditory experience while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter switch that offers an effortless keystroke with a smooth, polished feel, the Milk Tea switch might be more aligned with your needs. Its unique auditory profile strikes a gentle balance between being present yet subtle, making it perfect for quieter environments or long typing sessions where fatigue is a concern. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches boils down to whether you prioritize a rich auditory feedback and a slightly heavier actuation (Lotus) or a seamless and low-resistance experience (Milk Tea).
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