HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and Cherry MX Silent Red exemplify appealing yet distinct options for typists and gamers alike. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) is celebrated for its medium-heavy actuation weight of 62.5g and a notably bright, resonant sound that creates an invigorating typing experience, offering a super bouncy feel with each keystroke. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy a tactile and audible feedback, adding a dynamic quality to their typing. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red maintains the classic feel of the popular MX Red but significantly diminishes sound, making it an excellent choice for individuals in noise-sensitive environments. With its muted, thocky, and low-pitched characteristics, it provides a satisfying experience while remaining discreet, catering to users who prefer a quieter setup. Both switches have their unique appeals, catering to different preferences in tactile feedback and sound. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches bear remarkable similarities that ultimately yield comparable typing experiences. Both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, a material known for its softer plastic properties. This shared construction leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon absorbs more sound waves compared to harder plastics. Consequently, users of both switches can expect a distinctively smooth and somewhat muted auditory feedback, resulting in a more pleasant typing environment that minimizes noise pollution in shared spaces.
When examining the top and bottom housings of each switch, the benefits of using nylon become even clearer. Since both the Lotus (Heavy) and the MX Silent Red incorporate nylon in both housing sections, the overall sound profile is consistently rich and rounded. The resonant qualities enhance the bottom-out sound – markedly impacted by the bottom housing – while the top housing influences the sound released upon key release. As both switches mirror each other in material usage, the transition between pressing and releasing keys feels equally satisfying across both models, further solidifying a user-friendly experience.
Although the two switches maintain identical housing materials, the nuanced sound characteristics may vary in practice due to design differences in switch mechanics outside of the housing material. The impact of other factors – such as spring tension, keycap design, and the travel distance – can influence the overall feel and sound of the typing experience. Nonetheless, given the commonality in nylon used throughout both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Cherry MX Silent Red, users can confidently expect a consistently enjoyable typing experience, characterized by sound dampening attributes and plush acoustics regardless of which switch they choose.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch to the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force that cater to various typing preferences. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, making it a heavier switch overall, ideal for users seeking a more substantial and tactile typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, which makes it easier to press, thereby allowing for extended typing sessions without much fatigue. However, the bottom out force for the Silent Red is not specified, leaving its complete tactile feedback uncertain. As a result, users aiming for a lighter switch should consider the Cherry MX Silent Red, while those preferring a firmer push feel will find the HMX Lotus (Heavy) more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these switches boils down to personal preference regarding typing experience and comfort during extended use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The HMX Lotus features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cherry MX Silent Red has a slightly longer distance of 3.7 mm. This difference means that the Cherry MX Silent Red offers a deeper feel in key presses, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feedback when typing or gaming. Conversely, the shorter travel distance of the HMX Lotus could provide a slightly quicker response time, making it more appealing to gamers who prioritize speed over depth. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference regarding responsiveness and the desired tactile experience.
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 Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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) linear switch offers a bright and resonant auditory experience. This sound profile adds a lively character to each keystroke, making typing feel engaging and responsive. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red focuses on a significantly quieter experience, marked by its muted and thocky sound. This switch produces a low-pitched tone that is both soft and satisfying, minimizing the noise that typically accompanies mechanical keyboards. While the Lotus switch offers a more vibrant auditory experience, the Silent Red caters to those in quieter environments who still desire a pleasant acoustic feedback without causing distraction.
In terms of feel, the Lotus (Heavy) is known for providing a super bouncy sensation due to its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g. This gives users a delightful and responsive typing experience, where each keystroke feels lively and engaging. Similarly, the Cherry MX Silent Red offers a slightly heftier feel, although it is characterized by a textured sensation. This texture introduces a noticeable friction when pressing the keys, which some users may find adds a level of tactile feedback they appreciate. While the Lotus provides a smoother and more buoyant feel, the MX Silent Red's textured quality appeals to those seeking a different tactile experience.
Overall, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and Cherry MX Silent Red linear switches each have unique attributes that cater to diverse preferences in both sound and feel. The Lotus switch stands out for its bright, resonant sound and a bouncy tactile response, while the Silent Red excels in providing a soft, low-pitched sound profile and a textured feel. Depending on your environment and personal typing style, both switches can deliver satisfying results, albeit in different ways. Users seeking vibrant acoustics and a lively typing experience may gravitate towards the Lotus, while those needing a quieter option without sacrificing tactile engagement might prefer the Silent Red.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch ultimately depends on your typing environment and personal preferences. If you enjoy a more tactile and bouncy keystroke with a medium-heavy feel of 62.5 grams, the Lotus (Heavy) is a fantastic option, especially if you appreciate a brighter sound profile that adds a bit of character to your typing experience. This switch is suited for those who crave a satisfying auditory feedback while typing and don’t mind a slightly elevated noise level. On the other hand, if you often find yourself in quieter environments—such as a shared workspace or late-night gaming sessions—the Cherry MX Silent Red would be the better choice. With its muted sound and smooth actuation, this switch allows you to type or game without disturbing others, making it ideal for noise-sensitive settings. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your comfort with the switch's weight and sound characteristics relative to your typical surroundings, ensuring a typing solution that enhances rather than hinders your experience.
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