HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Outemu Blue Jade serve two distinct purposes that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Lotus (Heavy), a linear switch, is renowned for its medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g, delivering a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke experience that many typists and gamers crave. Its bright, resonant sound adds a lively character to each press, providing a delightful tactile feedback without the distraction of a click. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade is classified as a clicky switch, known for its satisfying auditory feedback and tactile bump, making it a popular choice among those who enjoy a pronounced response with each keystroke. Each switch has its own unique appeal: the Lotus (Heavy) is ideal for silent, fast-paced typing, while the Blue Jade offers an engaging and pronounced experience that many find rewarding. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Outemu Blue Jade both utilize nylon for their top and bottom switch housings, a material renowned for its ability to produce a rich acoustic profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic compared to alternatives like polycarbonate or ABS, which allows it to absorb sound more effectively. This characteristic leads to a deeper and fuller sound signature during keystrokes, resulting in a pleasant auditory experience reminiscent of soft thuds rather than sharper clacks. Consequently, users of both switches can expect a similar acoustic quality, marked by a duller and rounder sound that enhances the overall typing experience.
In terms of tactile feedback and the sensation of keystrokes, the use of nylon in both the Lotus (Heavy) and the Blue Jade will manifest in a concurrent typing feel. Since both switches feature nylon in their construction, users will likely perceive a consistent level of smoothness during actuation. The bottom housing, where a significant portion of the tactile feedback is generated, will similarly provide a cushioned and weighty feel. As the bottom-out sound is also shaped by the nylon material, users will find that the auditory response mirrors the tactile experience, resulting in a harmonious typing feedback loop that is satisfying for both casual typing and intense gaming sessions.
However, if the top and bottom housings of these switches were to differ in material or design, the characteristics imparted by each would affect the overall behavior of the switch. For instance, a switch with a hard top housing might produce a crisper sound on key release, while a softer bottom housing could enhance the feel of the bottom-out impact. Despite this theoretical distinction, since both the Lotus (Heavy) and Blue Jade utilize the same nylon material across their housings, users can anticipate a cohesive experience, where the advantages of nylon’s sound-dampening properties contribute uniformly to both sound and feel regardless of any subtle differences that may arise from the switch design.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, we can see that they differ in their actuation and bottom out forces, which can significantly impact typing and gaming experiences. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Outemu Blue Jade has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, but a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This means that while the Blue Jade requires less force to register a keystroke, it requires more force to press down completely. For users who prefer a lighter feel for prolonged typing sessions, the Blue Jade may be more appealing, despite the heavier bottom out. Conversely, those who enjoy the feel of a stronger push may find the HMX Lotus (Heavy) to be more suitable. Overall, the Lotus is the heavier option in terms of actuation force, while the Blue Jade is lighter for actuation but heavier for bottoming out, providing different tactile experiences based on user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, the differences are notable. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Blue Jade has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This suggests that if you prefer a more responsive feel, the Lotus (Heavy) with its shorter travel distance may be more suitable, as it allows for quicker key presses that some gamers favor. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade, with its longer travel distance, offers a more pronounced pressing experience, which could appeal to users who enjoy a deeper feedback when typing. Therefore, those looking for a balance between responsiveness and tactile depth might find these switches cater to their distinct preferences based on these travel distances.
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 Outemu Blue Jade comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 sound produced by the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch is noted to be bright and resonant, creating an engaging auditory experience with each keystroke. This tonal quality enhances the overall typing experience, providing an appealing soundscape that adds to immersion, especially when typing for extended periods. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade switch lacks specific sound descriptions, leaving a gap in understanding its auditory characteristics. However, it is essential to remember that the sound profile of any switch can be heavily influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, so this may vary widely in practice.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) delivers a super bouncy sensation due to its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g. This combination leads to a tactile and responsive keystroke experience that many typists and gamers find pleasurable and satisfying. In contrast, the Blue Jade’s feel is unspecified, which doesn't give a clear indication of its responsiveness or overall typing satisfaction. Without this information, it's difficult to compare its tactile quality directly to that of the Lotus switch.
In summary, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch provides a distinct auditory and tactile profile that many users may find delightful, especially with its bright sound and bouncy feel. The Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, however, lacks detailed information that would enable meaningful comparison in sound and feel. As a newcomer, if you are drawn to engaging sounds and a responsive feel, the Lotus might be a better fit, whereas the Blue Jade would require further exploration to uncover its specific characteristics. Ultimately, both switches can yield a satisfying typing experience, but the details surrounding the Blue Jade remain uncertain at this time.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a smooth, bouncy keystroke with a satisfying sound that increases the delight of each stroke, the Lotus (Heavy) linear switch would be a great choice for you. Its medium weight of 62.5 grams ensures a balance that can cater to both casual typing and prolonged gaming sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer tactile feedback coupled with a pronounced click sound for an engaging typing experience, the Blue Jade switch may be more suitable. Its slightly higher actuation force of 65 grams provides an added resistance that some typists find rewarding, making it a solid choice for those who appreciate audible and tactile cues as they type. Ultimately, consider how these factors align with your typing style and preferences to find the switch that best meets your needs.
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