HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, many enthusiasts gravitate toward the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the KTT Rose, both linear switches that offer distinct typing experiences. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) is celebrated for its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, which provides a satisfying, bouncy feel with each keystroke accompanied by a bright, resonant sound—ideal for those who appreciate tactile feedback and a pronounced auditory experience while typing. In contrast, the KTT Rose entices users with its aesthetic appeal and clever design, incorporating progressive springs that create a typing experience that is both substantial and pleasantly mild, producing a low-pitched, bassy sound reminiscent of gentle raindrops. While the Lotus excels in delivering an invigorating bounce and pronounced sound, the Rose offers a more refined and polished feel that caters to those who prefer a quieter yet satisfying typing 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the KTT Rose, a distinct contrast emerges in their top housing compositions. The Lotus (Heavy) utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is known for its softer texture and sound-absorbing properties. This choice produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, allowing for a typing experience that is characterized by a duller and rounder auditory output. In contrast, the Rose opts for a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate not only allows for a more resonant sound but also enhances clarity, particularly beneficial for users who favor RGB lighting in their setups due to the material's translucency.
Despite the differences in their top housings, both the Lotus (Heavy) and the KTT Rose share nylon as their bottom housing material. As noted, nylon's softer plastic composition promotes a deeper sound profile, which is consistent across both keyboards. This shared characteristic means that while the top housings produce different auditory effects, the foundation provided by the nylon bottom housing contributes to a similar experience in terms of lower sound absorption and overall feel when bottoming out the switch. As a result, typists who favor a full-bodied sound will likely feel a familiar resonance between the two models, especially during key presses.
When evaluating the overall acoustic performance of these switches, one must consider how the combination of housing materials plays into the typing experience. The Lotus (Heavy), with its nylon top absorbing sound in a way that promotes deeper tones, contrasts well with the sharper notes generated by the polycarbonate top of the Rose. However, the consistency provided by their nylon bottom housing helps to unify their sound signature, increasing the likelihood of a satisfactory experience for users who appreciate the nuances of sound profiles. Ultimately, these design choices offer distinct advantages and cater to varying preferences while maintaining some similarities in the overall typing feel and sound generated.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, there are notable differences that cater to varying typing preferences. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) features a defined actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, providing a balanced feel that appeals to those who enjoy a medium push. In contrast, the KTT Rose does not have a specified actuation force, but it has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which leans towards the medium-heavy category. This means that while the Rose is heavier in terms of bottom out force, without a known actuation force, its overall key feel remains more ambiguous. Consequently, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is the lighter option in terms of actuation force, possibly offering a more comfortable typing experience for extended use, whereas the KTT Rose, with its lack of an actuation force specification but heavier bottom out weight, may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer touch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether one values a lighter touch for longer sessions or a stronger feedback while typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, a noticeable difference emerges. The Lotus (Heavy) features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Rose extends to 4 mm. This means the KTT Rose has a longer travel distance, which can provide a more substantial feel during each keypress, aligning with those who prefer a deeper tactile experience. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Lotus (Heavy) may appeal to gamers or users looking for faster response times and rapid actuation. Ultimately, if you're seeking a brisk and responsive typing experience, the Lotus (Heavy) would be the more suitable choice, whereas if you favor a more pronounced depth in each keystroke, the KTT Rose would fulfill that desire.
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 Rose comes in at $3.01 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) switch produces a bright and resonant tone, which can create a satisfying acoustic feedback during typing. This characteristic is further enhanced by its medium-heavy weight, allowing for a pronounced auditory response that makes each keypress feel vibrant and engaging. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switch offers a more subdued sound profile described as low-pitched and bassy, akin to gentle raindrops. This quality provides a mellow typing experience that may be more suitable for quieter environments or for users who prefer a less obtrusive sound.
In terms of feel, the Lotus (Heavy) is recognized for its super bouncy action, delivering a responsive tactile sensation that many find enjoyable, particularly during long typing sessions. Its weight of 62.5g contributes to a dynamic and engaging typing experience, making it feel robust under fingers. Conversely, the Rose switch offers a mild yet polished experience, with a smooth operation facilitated by its well-refined design. The use of progressive springs in the Rose switch allows for a typing feel that is substantial but not overwhelming, striking a balance that many users will find approachable and pleasant.
Overall, both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the KTT Rose switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Lotus (Heavy) excels in delivering an engaging sound and a bouncy feel that can invigorate typing, while the Rose offers a low-pitched, mellower sound with a refined and gentle touch. Ultimately, whether one prefers the bright resonance and dynamic bounce of the Lotus or the smooth, subdued qualities of the Rose will depend on personal taste and typing style. If you're seeking a well-rounded experience, either switch could provide satisfying results, while the specific differences will cater to nuanced preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a bouncy feel with a somewhat brighter and more resonant sound profile, the Lotus (Heavy) is an excellent choice. Its medium-weight response of 62.5 grams provides a satisfying keystroke that balances tactile feedback without feeling overly burdensome, making it ideal for users who enjoy a lively typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a typing experience that leans towards a mellow, bass-heavy audio signature, the KTT Rose may be the better option. With its slightly higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, the Rose's progressive springs deliver a solid feel that remains comfortable over extended use, making it suitable for both beginners and those working in quieter environments. Its polished and mild characteristics provide a smooth and refined experience that won’t overwhelm your senses, perfect for all-day typing. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your individual style, whether you’re seeking a light, cheerful interaction with each keystroke or a deeper, more grounded feel in your typing rhythm.
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