HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie present two outstanding options for users seeking linear switches, each with its own unique characteristics. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) features a medium-heavy actuation weight of 62.5g, paired with a bright, resonant sound that offers a delightful tactile feedback with every key press, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie is celebrated for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, thanks to its all-POM construction, which not only ensures longevity but also provides a "thocky" sound profile that many enthusiasts find satisfying at a more accessible price point. While both switches cater to the linear switch preference, the Lotus (Heavy) offers a heavier, bouncier feel, and a sharper sound, whereas the Sea Salt Smoothie prioritizes smoothness and affordability. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
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
20mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, we see divergence in both the top and bottom constructions. The Lotus (Heavy) utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, a classic switch material known for its sound-dampening characteristics. This nylon composition facilitates a fuller, deeper sound profile during typing, as its softer nature absorbs more sound waves. The result is a duller, rounder acoustic experience that many users find appealing for its rich tonal quality.
In contrast, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie employs POM (polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings. POM is recognized for producing a unique and pleasing sound that shares a similar deeper tone but presents its auditory profile in a more muted atmosphere compared to nylon. This distinction in material creates a different tactile experience when interacting with the switch. Since POM is a harder plastic, the sound might carry differently than nylon, creating a distinct auditory sensation for the user while typing.
Despite these differences in materials, users can expect similarities in the overall sound profiles of both switches due to their design and structural nuances. With the heavier sound absorption of nylon in the Lotus (Heavy) and the specific acoustic qualities of POM in the Sea Salt Smoothie, both switches ultimately aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience rooted in a deeper sound foundation. However, the combination of unique material properties in each switch means that while the results may be akin in depth of sound, the nuances of how that sound is produced will differ, leading to distinctive typing experiences shaped by the individual materials employed.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch to the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces and bottom-out characteristics. The Lotus (Heavy) requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, while the Sea Salt Smoothie is lighter at 48 grams. This means that the Sea Salt Smoothie is generally better suited for users who prefer a lighter, more effortless typing experience, perfect for extended use in work or gaming contexts. In contrast, the heavier actuation force of the Lotus (Heavy) can provide a more substantial and deliberate typing feel, which some users may find appealing. Regarding bottom-out forces, the Lotus (Heavy) has a defined bottom-out force of 62.5 grams, while the bottom-out force for the Sea Salt Smoothie remains unknown, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons on how firmly the keys feel when fully pressed down. Overall, those seeking a lighter switch should lean towards the Sea Salt Smoothie, while users who appreciate a heavier, more substantial actuation might prefer the Lotus (Heavy).
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, we observe a notable difference. The Lotus (Heavy) features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Sea Salt Smoothie has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Lotus (Heavy) the shorter option, which could be more appealing to gamers looking for quicker response times. Conversely, the Sea Salt Smoothie’s longer distance may provide a more pronounced tactile experience for users who prefer a deeper feel when pressing down on keys. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference: those who value speed might gravitate toward the Lotus (Heavy), while those who appreciate a more leisurely keystroke might prefer the Sea Salt Smoothie.
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 Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Salt Smoothie for $2.70.
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) switch produces a bright and resonant tone, which can be quite engaging and lively, providing a distinct auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie offers a thocky sound profile. This deep, muted thock contrasts with the Lotus's brightness, creating a more subdued auditory experience. While both switches have appealing sound characteristics, they cater to different auditory preferences, with the Lotus favoring clarity and resonance and the Smoothie leaning towards a richer, lower-pitched sound.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch delivers a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g that fosters a super bouncy sensation, making each keystroke feel rewarding and lively. This responsiveness can enhance typing enjoyment, as the switches spring back quickly and provide a satisfying feedback loop. Conversely, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie is characterized by its exceptional smoothness, likely due to its construction from all-POM material. This smoothness can result in a buttery experience when typing, promoting effortless keystrokes without the drag some users might encounter with other switches. Although the weight isn’t specified for the Smoothie, the emphasis on smoothness indicates a focus on a well-balanced and pleasurable typing experience.
In summary, both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switches bring unique qualities to the table. The Lotus offers a bouncy and bright experience with its heavier actuation and resonant sound, while the Sea Salt Smoothie stands out with its thocky sound and superior smoothness. Depending on your preferences for auditory feedback and tactile response, each switch presents an enjoyable typing experience, so choosing between them will ultimately come down to whether you favor lively resonance or a rich, low thock combined with silky smooth keystrokes.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch largely hinges on your preferences for weight, sound, and overall typing experience. If you find joy in a slightly heavier keystroke that stays responsive and bouncy, the Lotus (Heavy) with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 62.5 grams will provide a tactile satisfaction that enhances your typing experience—ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced feedback while typing or gaming. The bright and resonant sound profile further enriches this experience, making it an excellent option if you appreciate auditory feedback as well as a solid tactile feel.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience and appreciate a thocky sound, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie is likely more suited to your needs. Its medium-weight design, coupled with high-quality all-POM construction, ensures that each keystroke feels fluid and crafted for effortless typing, making it a great choice for long writing sessions or quiet environments. The Smoothie focuses on offering an exceptionally smooth feel combined with a more subdued sound profile, which can help keep distractions at bay. In essence, your decision should reflect not only your typing style but also the acoustic environment you’re in, as well as how much resistance you prefer from your switches.
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