HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the HMX Perky 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 HMX Perky provide distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Lotus (Heavy), with its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, delivers a tactile response that is both bouncy and bright, making each keystroke feel lively and engaging. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a sturdier feel and enjoy the resonant sounds accompanying each press. In contrast, the HMX Perky features softer nylon housings that contribute to a more neutral and condensed typing experience, allowing for quicker keystrokes thanks to its shorter travel distance. While the Perky switch is excellent for speed and comfort, appealing particularly to gamers or those who prefer a subtler feedback, the Lotus (Heavy) may appeal to typists seeking a tactile sensation and auditory feedback to enhance their writing experience. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 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
T2
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
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the HMX Perky utilize nylon as their housing material for both the top and bottom components. This unifying choice of material elicits a substantial similarity in their overall sound profile, characterized by a deeper and fuller auditory experience. Nylon, known for being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively than many harder materials. This inherent quality leads to a specific sound experience where the typing feels smooth, producing a duller and rounder sound rather than a sharp or loud auditory feedback. Consequently, users can expect a similarly rich typing experience from both models, underscoring the advantages of nylon as a versatile housing material in keyboard switches.
While they share the same material for both top and bottom housings, it's important to note that any variances in the design or internal mechanics—if applicable—can still influence the typing experience. Even with identical materials, the characteristics of the typing experience can differ slightly depending on the specific design elements and tuning of each switch model. For instance, if the weight distribution or the spring mechanism within either the Lotus (Heavy) or the Perky is adjusted, it may result in differing tactile sensations or key feel, while the core sound profile remains consistent due to the use of nylon. However, with the current information presented, both switches remain aligned in their fundamental design choice.
To summarize, while the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the HMX Perky boast top and bottom housings made of the same nylon material, enabling a shared sound profile that leans toward a softer and more muted auditory experience, variations in design specifics could introduce subtle differences in feel. This design choice ensures that both models derive the benefits of nylon's acoustic properties, yet user perception may vary based on individual design nuances. Therefore, while similar material choices lead to comparable sound profiles, any divergences in other aspects of the switches could result in a unique typing experience tailored by their distinct characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Lotus (Heavy) requires an actuation force of 55 grams and has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch that offers a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Perky features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming due to its lower resistance. Consequently, users seeking a lighter switch for extended use may prefer the Perky, while those who enjoy a heavier and more tactile feel in their keyboards might lean towards the Lotus (Heavy). Overall, if one values a lighter experience for comfort, the Perky is the better choice, while the Lotus (Heavy) caters to those who appreciate greater push force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, the Lotus has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Perky measures 3.4 mm. This makes the Lotus the longer travel switch by a slight margin. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional options, which typically measure around 4.0 mm. If you lean towards quicker response times, the Perky's shorter distance may be preferable. However, if you enjoy a more pronounced keystroke depth, the Lotus could provide a more satisfying tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice will depend on your personal preference for responsiveness versus key depth.
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 HMX Perky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Perky for $2.99.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch features a bright and resonant characteristics that can create an engaging auditory experience with each keystroke. This lively sound profile contributes to the overall enjoyment of typing, making it an appealing choice for those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Perky switch offers a unique tactile experience that is accompanied by a quieter output. While the specific sound qualities of the Perky are not detailed, the implication is that it should provide a more subdued, yet pleasant auditory backdrop for typing. The sound produced by either switch may also be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard's construction and the selected keycap materials.
In terms of feel, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch delivers a super bouncy sensation, enhanced by its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g. This weight, coupled with its design, gives users a robust feedback mechanism that can evoke a satisfying sense of control during typing. Conversely, the HMX Perky switch is characterized by its soft and glittery nylon housing, which is likely to offer a softer and more neutral feel. This suggests a typing experience that emphasizes comfort and satisfaction, particularly for those who prefer a less assertive keystroke. Additionally, the Perky's shorter travel distance contributes to a more compressed typing sensation, making it potentially more suited for faster typing styles.
Overall, both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and HMX Perky linear switches cater to different preferences, appealing to typists with unique auditory and tactile needs. While the Lotus (Heavy) offers a lively sound and a bouncy, robust feel, the Perky provides a more subtle auditory experience and a softer, condensed typing sensation. Those looking for a dynamic typing experience may lean towards the Lotus, while individuals who favor a quieter, more comfortable setup might find the Perky to be the perfect match. Ultimately, the choice will depend on whether one values a robust auditory response and bounce or a softer, more neutral typing feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the HMX Perky linear switches ultimately depends on your personal typing style and preferences. If you enjoy a more robust and tactile experience, the Lotus (Heavy) is an excellent choice, offering a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 62.5 grams that lends itself to a bouncy feel and a satisfying auditory feedback. This switch is ideal for those who favor a more deliberate typing experience, perhaps making it suitable for gaming or extensive writing sessions where you crave a sense of precision and impact with each keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch, the HMX Perky switch, with its 50 grams of bottom-out force, provides a softer, more relaxed typing experience. The Perky's shorter travel distance and soft nylon housing deliver a neutral and deeply satisfying feel, making it great for fast typists who want to minimize finger fatigue during long hours of use. Therefore, consider your typing habits and desired feedback when choosing between these two options: the HMX Lotus (Heavy) for those who want a heavier, more pronounced feel, and the HMX Perky for those who seek a lighter, more fluid experience.
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