HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Jerrzi Seashell both offer appealing attributes tailored to different user preferences. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) features a medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g, providing users with a satisfying, bouncy keystroke that emphasizes tactile feedback and a bright, resonant sound, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell captivates not only with its striking purple aesthetic but also with its light and clacky feel, a combination that ensures both comfort and enjoyment during prolonged typing sessions. While the Lotus appeals to those seeking a robust and tactile response, the Seashell is ideal for users who prioritize a fun, easy-to-press 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Jerrzi Seashell switches present a contrast that significantly influences their auditory characteristics and tactile feedback. The Lotus (Heavy) features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to absorb sound and provide a deeper, fuller auditory experience. This softer plastic allows for a rounder sound profile, which is often favored by users who appreciate a warm, muted keypress sensation. In contrast, the Jerrzi Seashell employs a polycarbonate top housing that introduces a sharper, crisper sound profile, thanks to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This material's rigidity results in a more pronounced resonance, often appealing to users who prefer a clearer, more vibrant typing experience.
When examining the bottom housings, both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Jerrzi Seashell utilize nylon, yielding similarities in the resulting sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a softer, deeper auditory effect consistent across both models. Consequently, users can expect a pronounced dullness in sound when bottoming out a key on either switch, resulting from the similar material at the bottom. Since both switches share this common nylon bottom housing, the tactile feedback and auditory properties when bottoming out remain consistent, despite the differences in their respective top housings.
Ultimately, the blending of differing materials in each switch means that users will experience a mix of characteristics when typing. While the Lotus (Heavy) delivers a muted sound profile due to its nylon top housing, the Seashell’s polycarbonate top enhances clarity and resonance. In practical terms, this means that users who appreciate a multifaceted typing experience can achieve varied sound outputs based on key presses—dense and muted when pressing down due to the nylon material in both switches, but with a notable difference in auditory feedback during key release. This contrast allows for a versatile typing experience, catering to varying preferences in sound aesthetics and feel.
Weight
The HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation forces, which can significantly influence typing experience. The Lotus (Heavy) requires a firmer actuation force of 55 grams, resulting in a heavier feel that caters to those who prefer a substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Seashell switch showcases a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, appealing to users who favor a more effortless typing experience, especially beneficial during extended use or gaming sessions. Additionally, the bottom out force for the Lotus is recorded at 62.5 grams, which is medium, providing a tactile feedback when the key is fully pressed down. However, the bottom out force for the Seashell is currently unknown, which leaves some uncertainty regarding the overall resistance felt during a full keystroke. Consequently, while the Lotus (Heavy) is the heavier option, the Seashell's lighter actuation force suggests it may be more suitable for prolonged use, as long as its bottom out characteristics align with user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, we find that the Lotus (Heavy) has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Seashell sits slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. This means that the Lotus (Heavy) offers a deeper press, which may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile experience. In contrast, the Seashell's shorter travel distance could cater to gamers or typists seeking quicker actuation for faster response times. While both switches are within the realm of modern preferences for shorter travel distances, the Lotus (Heavy) provides a more substantial feel, whereas the Seashell allows for slightly quicker keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for depth versus rapidity.
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 Jerrzi Seashell has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Seashell for $2.30.
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, making each key press feel lively and engaging. Its sound profile is likely to be more rich and robust compared to the Jerrzi Seashell switch. In contrast, the Seashell switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound. This sharp and snappy auditory feedback can be quite satisfying, especially for those who appreciate a more pronounced sound with a crisp, percussive quality. Both sound experiences depend on factors such as the keyboard plate and keycap materials, but you can expect distinctly different auditory profiles from each switch.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) offers a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, providing a super bouncy sensation that enhances the enjoyment of typing. This heavier resistance can give a satisfying feedback for those who prefer tactile interaction with their switches. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell switches are designed with a feathery, easy-to-press feel. They require minimal effort to actuate, which can significantly reduce finger fatigue during extended use. With a polished smoothness that enhances key travel, the Seashell switches create a comfortable typing experience that is described as both responsive and effortless. The stark contrast in the tactile experience between the two means that users will choose based on their individual preference for either a more substantial or easier keystroke.
Summing up, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and Jerrzi Seashell switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences in keyboard usage. The Lotus (Heavy) excels with a bright, robust sound and a more substantial bouncy feel, while the Seashell impresses with its light, clacky auditory feedback and an exceptionally easy and smooth typing experience. Depending on what aspects you prioritize—whether it’s the satisfying weight of a heavier switch or the feather-light ease of activation—you’ll find compelling options in both switches that cater to a wide range of keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a tactile and slightly heavier key press with a bright, resonant sound, the Lotus (Heavy) with its 62.5 grams bottom-out force would be ideal, especially for typing or gaming sessions where a more pronounced feedback translates to precision. This switch's super bouncy feel makes each keystroke enjoyable, which can enhance your overall typing experience. Conversely, if you favor a lighter, more effortless typing experience, the Seashell switch, known for its feathery touch and clacky sound, may be the better option. Ideal for long typing sessions without causing finger fatigue, the Seashell offers a beautiful aesthetic paired with a crisp, bright sound that provides an enjoyable auditory experience. Thus, your choice should reflect not only your desired typing feel and sound but also how you plan to engage with your keyboard, whether it be for work, gaming, or casual use.
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