HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Cherry MX Speed Silver present distinct advantages that cater to different user preferences. The Lotus (Heavy) is renowned for its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, delivering a bouncy keystroke and a bright, resonant sound that enhances the tactile experience, making it a delight for typists who enjoy a more tactile feedback with each press. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is designed with speed in mind, featuring a low spring resistance that allows for instantaneous actuation—a crucial characteristic for competitive gamers seeking that millisecond advantage in fast-paced matches. While both switches are linear in nature, the Lotus provides a satisfying auditory experience, whereas the Speed Silver excels in rapid response. 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
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Cherry MX Speed Silver utilize nylon for their top and bottom switch housings, which fundamentally aligns their performance characteristics. Nylon is recognized for its softer, more absorbent qualities compared to harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This shared material choice means both switches will produce a similar auditory experience, characterized by a duller and rounder sound when keys are pressed or released, thus making them well-suited for users who appreciate a muted typing experience.
While the presence of nylon in both the top and bottom housings of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and Cherry MX Speed Silver suggests they will perform comparably in terms of sound absorption, the tactile experience can differ due to the overall design and mechanics inherent to each switch. The specific molding and specifications of the switches might affect the feel of the keystroke; however, the shared nylon material means that users can expect a consistent sound quality during activation, whether it be the muted thud of the key bottoming out or the soft release.
The configuration of the housings also influences how sound is produced. Since both switches have nylon constructions for both the top and bottom, the impact on the sound profile will be evenly distributed. This equates to a cohesive experience where the bottom housing contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound, while the top housing influences the sound perceived on key release. The advantages of using nylon in both cases lead to a harmonized sound profile that fans of tactile switches will appreciate, whether they opt for the HMX Lotus (Heavy) or the Cherry MX Speed Silver.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Lotus (Heavy) features an actuation force of 55 grams, which is heavier than the Cherry MX Speed Silver's actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Lotus requires a stronger keystroke to register, making it potentially more suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the lighter 45-gram actuation force of the MX Speed Silver may appeal to those who favor a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming. The bottom out force for the Lotus is recorded at 62.5 grams, indicating a significant resistance when fully depressed. However, the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Speed Silver is unavailable, making a direct comparison difficult. Overall, the Lotus (Heavy) is the heavier switch, while the MX Speed Silver is the lighter option, providing different experiences depending on the user's preference for typing feel and fatigue considerations.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) measures 3.5 mm, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that for those seeking quicker response times, the Cherry MX Speed Silver may be the better option, as it has a shorter travel distance, aligning with the preferences of many gamers. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) offers a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, providing a more substantial feel that some users might find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences, with the Lotus (Heavy) being ideal for those who appreciate a hearty depth and the MX Speed Silver catering to users favoring a quicker actuation.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch is known for its bright and resonant quality, which contributes to an enjoyable auditory experience with each keystroke. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch produces a thocky sound that resonates deeply. The low-pitched tone of the Speed Silver offers a bass-heavy, mellow characteristic that can be quite pleasing during heavy typing sessions. Both switches will provide unique auditory feedback, which can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps, but the Lotus brings a higher, more vibrant sound compared to the deeper, more subdued tones of the Speed Silver.
In terms of feel, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch provides a super bouncy sensation thanks to its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, making each keystroke feel lively and satisfying. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is noted for its textured feel, which may present a scratchy sensation when pressed, as it exhibits noticeable friction. This difference means that while the Lotus promotes a bouncy and responsive feel ideal for both typing and gaming, the Speed Silver focuses on rapid response at the cost of a smoother experience, making it more suitable for gamers looking for immediate activation.
In conclusion, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and Cherry MX Speed Silver switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences. The Lotus delivers a bright and resonant sound with a bouncy feel, perfect for enthusiasts who enjoy a lively typing experience, while the Speed Silver provides a deep, thocky sound combined with a textured feel aimed at maximizing speed and performance in competitive gaming. Ultimately, users will benefit from choosing the switch that aligns with their personal preferences for sound and typing dynamics, as both switches cater to different aspects of mechanical keyboard enjoyment.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you enjoy a more tactile typing experience with a satisfying bounce and sound, the Lotus (Heavy) is a great option. Its medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g provides a sense of durability and feedback that many typists love, particularly for everyday typing and prolonged use. The bright, resonant sound of the Lotus adds character to your keyboard, making it a delightful choice for those who appreciate auditory feedback. However, if you are a competitive gamer looking for unparalleled speed and responsiveness, you'll likely prefer the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch. With its quick trigger action and lower spring resistance, it’s designed to minimize keypress latency, enabling you to react faster during gaming sessions where timing is everything. This switch is an excellent option when you prioritize quickness over feedback, as its textured feel and thocky, low-pitched sound may appeal to those who value an efficient and subtle experience. Ultimately, aligning your choice with the types of activities you indulge in—be it gaming or typing—will guide you to the switch that best complements your needs.
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