HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice can significantly influence your typing experience, and two notable options are the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Cherry Nixie, both linear switches. The Lotus (Heavy) switch is characterized by its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g and a bright, resonant sound, offering an incredibly bouncy feel that enhances the joy of each keystroke. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie switches are celebrated for their substantial heft and textured typing experience, featuring the latest materials and springs from Cherry’s MX2A update, which combine traditional craftsmanship with modern advancements. While the HMX Lotus (Heavy) emphasizes a delightful tactile response, the Nixie offers a thocky, low-pitched sound that many enthusiasts cherish for its auditory depth. Each switch has its unique advantages: the Lotus excels in providing a lively and enjoyable typing sensation, whereas the Nixie stands out for those who appreciate a textured and substantial keystroke. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Cherry Nixie exhibit remarkable similarities in their use of nylon for both top and bottom housings. As described, nylon is celebrated for its softer composition, which results in a sound profile that is deeper and fuller when utilized in keyboard switches. This shared material choice means that both switches will offer a rounder and duller sound compared to those made with harder plastics. The inherent design aspects of nylon contribute to sound absorption, allowing for a more muted auditory experience, which is beneficial for users seeking a quieter typing environment.
Examining the construction of both switches, we find that the effects of the nylon material are consistent across the top and bottom housings. Each switch will deliver a similar auditory experience when typing, as the use of nylon in both components facilitates the same sound quality. When a key is pressed, the qualities attributed to the bottom housing become prominent, with the nylon absorbing sound and providing a pleasant tactile feel. Subsequently, releasing the key will highlight the influence of the top housing, which also uses nylon to maintain that softer, more subdued auditory profile.
While both the Lotus (Heavy) and the Cherry Nixie employ identical materials in their switch housings, this consistency suggests that users can expect analogous performance from both models. The use of nylon for both top and bottom housings results not only in a cohesive sound experience but also points towards similar tactile feedback. In essence, regardless of the specific design elements or nuances that may differentiate these two models, the shared housing material ensures that typists will achieve comparable outcomes in terms of sound and feel, reinforcing the appeal of nylon in modern switch design.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying typing preferences. The Lotus (Heavy) requires an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Nixie features a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams and an even more substantial bottom out force of 80 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a more forceful typing experience. Consequently, the Lotus (Heavy) is the lighter option, which can be advantageous for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, while the Nixie’s greater resistance provides a more tactile and weighted feel. Users opting for the Nixie may appreciate the robust feedback it offers, but those seeking a lighter touch might gravitate towards the Lotus for comfort during prolonged use. Overall, these differences make each switch uniquely suited to different typing styles and preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Cherry Nixie has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This distinction highlights the trade-offs between the two switches: the Lotus (Heavy) may offer a more responsive experience favored by gamers who seek quicker actuation, whereas the Nixie provides a fuller keypress that some users prefer for its depth and tactile feedback. For those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming, the Cherry Nixie may be the better choice, while users looking for rapid response might lean towards the HMX Lotus (Heavy).
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 Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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 its bright, resonant sound, which can provide an engaging auditory experience that many users find delightful during typing. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie linear switch offers a thocky auditory profile, producing a deep, rich sound reminiscent of a pronounced thud when a key is pressed and released. Additionally, the Nixie's sound is low-pitched, lending a bass-heavy quality that contrasts with the Lotus's brighter tones. Both switches can produce satisfying auditory feedback, but the exact experience will vary based on factors like the keyboard design and the choice of keycaps, with the Nixie leaning towards a more bass-heavy sound.
When it comes to feel, the Lotus (Heavy) switch is described as providing a super bouncy sensation, enhancing the tactile feedback and making each keystroke feel engaging and responsive. Conversely, the Cherry Nixie switch is noted for its textured typing experience, which means there may be noticeable friction when keys are pressed. This textural quality can add an element of character to the typing feel, but it may not be as smooth as the Lotus switch's bounciness. As a result, those who prefer an energetic and lively typing experience may gravitate toward the Lotus, while enthusiasts who enjoy the nuances of a textured feel might favor the Nixie.
In summary, both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and Cherry Nixie linear switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The Lotus captures a bright resonance with a bouncy keystroke, while the Nixie provides a profound thocky sound paired with a textured typing feel. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences in sound and feel, as both can deliver enjoyable typing results, albeit in different ways.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, your decision should be based on your typing preference and the overall experience you're seeking. If you enjoy a medium-heavy actuation force with a brighter sound that enhances the tactile response while typing, the Lotus (Heavy) is an excellent choice. Its super bouncy feel adds a delightful springiness to each keystroke, making it ideal for casual typing or gaming where a lively feedback is appreciated. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier and more substantial typing experience, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is the way to go. With its 80-gram bottom-out force, the Nixie provides a thocky and low-pitched sound profile that delivers a satisfying auditory experience, and its textured feel might suit those who appreciate a bit of friction in their keystrokes. Ultimately, if you gravitate toward a more playful and lighter touch, go for the Lotus (Heavy); however, if you're inclined toward a robust, classic typing experience with a solid, dependable feel, the Nixie switches will serve you well.
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