HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the KTT Orange offer unique experiences tailored to different preferences. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) is characterized by its medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g and a bright, resonant sound that delivers a satisfying bouncy feel with every keystroke, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy tactile feedback and pronounced auditory responses. In contrast, the KTT Orange switches boast a 22mm long spring, which provides a similarly bouncy sensation, but combined with a slick, frictionless typing experience thanks to their polycarbonate milky top housing and expertly factory-lubed mechanism. With a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange is perfect for quieter environments or for users who prefer a more subdued acoustic experience. Both switches offer enjoyable typing dynamics but cater to slightly different preferences in terms of sound and tactile feedback. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the KTT Orange, significant differences emerge that affect not only their acoustic profiles but also the tactile experience provided to users. The Lotus (Heavy) employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which contributes to a sound profile characterized by a deeper, fuller tone. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and more muted auditory experience. This material choice is ideal for users who prefer a softer sound when typing, as the overall acoustic quality delivered is cohesive and consistent through both the top and bottom housings.
In contrast, the KTT Orange houses both its top and bottom in polycarbonate, a much stiffer plastic that offers a crisper, higher-pitched sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate not only enhances the clarity and resonance of each keystroke but also creates a distinct auditory feedback that is characterized as sharper and more pronounced. This difference in material results in a sound that is more vibrant and engaging, especially under RGB lighting conditions, where the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for stunning visual effects. Users who appreciate a brighter tonal quality in their switches may find the KTT Orange more appealing, especially when considering the interplay between light and sound.
Despite these differences, the overall typing experience offered by both switches can yield somewhat similar results, but in different ways. For instance, when typing on the Lotus (Heavy), the deep, muted sound produced by the nylon housing provides a smooth tactile feel that many users find comforting. Conversely, the KTT Orange’s sharper sound and feel can also provide a certain level of satisfaction, particularly for those who enjoy the feedback of a more resonant keystroke. Ultimately, while the materials used in their construction diverge significantly in both sound and feel, both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and KTT Orange cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose based on their desired auditory and tactile experiences while typing.
Weight
The HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch exhibit notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces, influencing user experience depending on individual preferences. The Lotus (Heavy) requires a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, making it the heavier option. In contrast, the KTT Orange features a lighter actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This difference in weight can significantly impact typing and gaming experiences; those who favor a more substantial feel may prefer the HMX Lotus, while individuals seeking a lighter keypress for prolonged sessions might opt for the KTT Orange. Overall, the two switches cater to different user preferences, with the HMX Lotus providing a firmer push and the KTT Orange offering a more effortless typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which means that pressing either switch will produce the same tactile response in terms of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Consequently, users can expect a similar experience when engaging with either switch, as both offer an identical feel and responsiveness under the same conditions. Since the travel distances are equal, preferences may come down to other factors such as actuation force or switch characteristics rather than travel distance alone.
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 KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange 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) switch delivers a bright, resonant tono that can be quite satisfying for users who appreciate auditory feedback from their typing experience. This higher-pitched sound can create a lively ambiance, contributing to the overall enjoyment of using the keyboard. In contrast, the KTT Orange switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, characterized by a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. This difference is notable, as low-pitched switches tend to create a smoother auditory presence, which may be preferable for those who favor a quieter and less intrusive typing environment. However, it's essential to recognize that the final sound experience will depend largely on the keyboard's build and the keycap material used.
In terms of feel, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch is renowned for its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, providing a super bouncy sensation that many users find delightful. This bouncy responsiveness can enhance the typing experience by giving a noticeable bounce-back, making each keystroke feel more engaging and pleasurable. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch focuses on a frictionless interaction, featuring a long 22mm spring that also contributes to a bouncy feel. The factory-lubing of these switches ensures that the key travel is refined and fluid, minimizing any resistance or friction during typing. Although both switches provide a bouncy feeling, the KTT Orange emphasizes a smoother, more effortless typing experience, while the Lotus (Heavy) leans towards a more dynamic feedback.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and KTT Orange linear switches have unique but enjoyable characteristics. The Lotus excels in providing a bright sound and a dynamic bouncy feel, making it appealing to those who prioritize an engaging typing experience. Meanwhile, the KTT Orange offers a lower-pitched sound profile with an emphasis on frictionless smoothness, catering to those who prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience. Ultimately, both switches can deliver satisfaction, but the choice will depend on individual preferences regarding sound and feedback during use.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a slightly heavier feel and a bright, resonant sound that enhances your keystrokes, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) with its 62.5g bottom-out force could be the perfect choice for you. Its bouncy sensation provides delightful feedback, making typing both enjoyable and rewarding, especially for users who appreciate a little more resistance while they type. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more effortless typing experience, the KTT Orange switch, with its 53g bottom-out force, may suit you better. Its low-pitched sound and frictionless feel offer a sleek typing experience, coupled with a lively bounce that makes fast typing feel seamless. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you seek a more tactile, pronounced feel with a substantial auditory response or a light, fluid action that minimizes effort and maximizes speed.
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