HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preferences in comfort, feel, and sound profile. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch stands out with its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, producing a bright and resonant sound that not only enhances tactile feedback but also offers a bouncy experience with every keystroke, making it a great option for those who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing or gaming. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star switches appeal to those who prioritize a lighter touch, featuring an impressive 45g bottom-out weight and an all-POM construction that ensures a buttery smooth typing experience. The neutral sound signature of the Purple Star makes it ideal for users who prefer quieter operation without sacrificing performance. While the Lotus caters to those seeking a more tactile and audible engagement, the Purple Star is perfect for light typists looking for comfort and ease. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual needs.
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
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Lotus (Heavy) and KTT Purple Star are both switches that utilize different materials for their housing, which significantly influences the auditory and tactile experience when typing. The Lotus (Heavy) is constructed with nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a traditional choice known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The soft nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. Conversely, the KTT Purple Star incorporates polyoxymethylene (POM) for both its top and bottom housings. POM is prized for its unique sound characteristics, which, while also delivering a deeper and muted sound profile, provides a slightly different sound signature than nylon due to its hardness and resilience.
When comparing the sound profiles of the two switches, it's clear that both aim for a rich auditory experience, albeit through different materials. The softer nylon of the Lotus (Heavy) enhances sound dampening, creating a more muted attack when pressing the keys. In contrast, the POM housing of the Purple Star offers a similar subdued sound, though its inherent properties may allow for a more distinct resonant quality. As such, while both switches provide a deeper and less harsh sound, the experience may feel different. The Lotus (Heavy)'s nylon construction might evoke a warmer tone whereas the POM from the Purple Star may produce a sprightly clarity that still aligns with that deeper sound characteristic.
In terms of tactile feedback and overall typing experience, both switches deliver a different nuanced feel due to their housing materials. The bottom-out feel, which relates directly to the bottom housing, will be more influenced by the softer nylon in the Lotus (Heavy), providing a cushioned experience when the switch is fully engaged. The POM bottom housing in the Purple Star, while still enjoyable, will likely offer a more responsive bottom-out feel due to its sturdiness, albeit maintaining that muted sound quality. While the two switches differ in material, they both strive for a controlled sound profile that enhances the typing experience, meaning that users can achieve similarly pleasant results, albeit with different tactile and auditory signatures.
Weight
The HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch present distinct options in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Lotus (Heavy) requires a stronger actuation force of 55 grams, compared to the Purple Star's lighter 43 grams, making it a more forceful choice for users who prefer a substantial typing experience. When it comes to bottom out force, the Lotus (Heavy) also leads with 62.5 grams, in contrast to the Purple Star's lighter 50 grams. This means that users of the KTT Purple Star can expect a less strenuous keystroke, potentially allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue, while the heavier Lotus will provide more tactile feedback. In summary, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is the heavier option, better suited for those who appreciate a firmer key press, whereas the KTT Purple Star is the lighter choice, ideal for those looking for ease and comfort during extended use.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.5 mm, meaning they move the same distance from the top to the bottom when a key is pressed. This similarity ensures that users will experience a comparable feel when activating both switches. Since their travel distances are equal, users can expect similar tactile feedback and performance in typing or gaming scenarios, contributing to a uniform experience regardless of which switch is chosen.
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 Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch stands out for its bright, resonant qualities, creating a lively auditory experience with each keystroke. This is in stark contrast to the KTT Purple Star, which offers a low-pitched sound profile characterized by a mellow and bass-heavy tone. The brighter sound of the Lotus may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback during typing, while the Purple Star's neutral sound signature caters to users seeking a quieter, more unobtrusive typing experience. It's important to note that both switches can sound different depending on the keyboard construction and choice of keycaps, meaning the final auditory result could vary significantly in different setups.
In terms of feel, the Lotus (Heavy) switch provides a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, giving it a bouncy and responsive nature that can make typing feel more dynamic and engaging. This switch is ideal for individuals who prefer a slightly more substantial actuation force, allowing for a satisfying tactile experience. Conversely, the KTT Purple Star’s very light 45g bottom-out weight promotes an effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue, making it particularly appealing for those who type for extended periods. The Purple Star's mild characteristics ensure a gentle and approachable feel, making it suitable for a broad range of users.
In summary, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and KTT Purple Star linear switches each deliver distinct experiences in sound and feel. The Lotus offers a brighter, more resonant sound paired with a bouncy tactile feedback, appealing to users seeking a dynamic typing experience. Meanwhile, the Purple Star delivers a low-pitched sound and a light, smooth feel that favors comfort and ease during extended use. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal typing preferences, particularly in terms of sound preferences and desired actuation force. Both can provide unique yet satisfying experiences, as long as they align with your typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch ultimately depends on your typing style and preferences. If you enjoy a more tactile and bouncy experience with a slightly heavier keystroke, the Lotus (Heavy) switch may be the ideal option for you. Its medium-heavy weight of 62.5 grams offers a satisfying resistance that can contribute to a more deliberate and engaging typing rhythm, complemented by a bright, resonant sound that adds character to each keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a light, effortless typing experience with an emphasis on smoothness and comfort, the KTT Purple Star might be better suited to your needs. With a bottom-out force of just 50 grams, these switches make for a gentle typing experience, requiring minimal effort and reducing the risk of finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The low-pitched sound signature promotes a tranquil environment, making the Purple Star an excellent choice for both casual typing and extended work. Ultimately, assess your typing habits, whether you lean towards weighty and bouncy or light and smooth, to determine which switch aligns best with your personal preference and typing style.
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