HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring hinges on the distinct tactile experiences they offer. The Lotus (Heavy) is a linear switch known for its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g and a bright, resonant sound, delivering a super bouncy feel that enhances each keystroke's enjoyment. It's ideal for users who prefer a smooth, uninterrupted typing experience without the distraction of tactile feedback. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a tactile switch that impresses with its medium-high level of tactility, thanks to its unique long, two-staged spring design. This switch produces deep, resonating thocks with every keystroke, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a pronounced tactile response and auditory feedback while typing. Both switches cater to different preferences—whether you value a smooth and bouncy touch or a more pronounced, tactile click. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
No
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches, the choice of housing materials plays a crucial role in determining their sound profiles and tactile feedback. The Lotus utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a traditional material known for its ability to absorb sound, offering a deeper and fuller sound experience. In contrast, the Shadow switch employs polycarbonate for both its housings, which results in a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the material's increased rigidity. While the Lotus's nylon components produce a duller and more rounded auditory experience, the Shadow's polycarbonate housing lends itself to a more resonant performance, particularly appealing for those who favor a pronounced keystroke feedback.
Both switches present distinct characteristics based on their housing materials. The satin finish of the polycarbonate in the Aflion Shadow not only enhances its aesthetic appeal, especially when paired with RGB lighting, but it also contributes to its sound clarity. In contrast, the softer nylon housing of the Lotus leads to a cushioned typing experience, mitigating excessive sharpness in sound. Despite these differences, both switches can provide an enjoyable typing experience, although the unique acoustic properties of nylon and polycarbonate are likely to influence the preference of users according to their sound preferences.
The diverging qualities of the materials also define how the overall sound is perceived during usage. In both switches, the top housing material impacts the sound when releasing the key, while the bottom housing contributes to the bottom-out feel and noise. Consequently, users looking for a more subdued experience may gravitate toward the HMX Lotus (Heavy), while those seeking clarity and precision might favor the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Despite their material contrasts, those who appreciate a mix of deep, rounded sounds with distinct keystrokes will find both options capable of meeting distinct preferences, albeit through different manifestations of sound clarity and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is clear that they share similarities but also present slight differences. Both switches have the same actuation force of 55 grams, meaning they require an equal amount of force to trigger a keystroke, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended use, whether for work or gaming. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly; the Lotus (Heavy) features a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) has a slightly firmer bottom out force of 63 grams. This indicates that while both switches offer a similar actuation feel, the Aflion Shadow may provide a marginally more substantial typing experience when fully pressed down. Overall, both switches cater to users who prefer a balanced and medium force, appealing to those looking for comfort without sacrificing feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there is a clear distinction. The Lotus (Heavy) boasts a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference means that users who prefer a more responsive feel may gravitate towards the shorter travel distance of the Lotus, as it allows for quicker key actuation and faster response times, which is particularly advantageous for gaming. Conversely, those who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their key presses might find the Shadow's 4 mm travel distance more satisfying, providing a hearty and tactile feedback that some users prefer. Therefore, if you favor shorter travel for responsiveness, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) would be the better choice, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) would appeal to those seeking a more substantial typing experience.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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 stands out with a bright, resonant quality that contributes to an engaging auditory experience while typing. The sound profile is lively and can often be described as cheerful, making every keystroke an event in itself. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offers a distinct auditory feedback characterized by deep, resonating thocks. This sound is more subdued and bass-heavy compared to the sharper, high-pitched notes of the Lotus switches. Ultimately, if you favor a more enriching, melodic typing sound, the Lotus may be your go-to, whereas the Shadow will appeal to those who prefer a fuller and more profound acoustic presence.
Regarding feel, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is known for its super bouncy sensation, thanks to its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g. This loveliness provides a spring-like feedback that enhances the typing experience, delivering a delightful tactile interaction. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is structured with dual-staged springs that provide a sharp and accented tactile bump, creating a rich and engaging feel. The Shadow switches are snappy and responsive, encouraging a lively typing experience while maintaining a substantial level of tactility without overwhelming the user. While both switches report a bounce or liveliness in their feel, the tactile feedback from the Shadow creates a distinctly different experience due to its embedded tactility.
In conclusion, while the HMX Lotus (Heavy) Linear switch emphasizes a bright and resonant sound along with a pleasantly bouncy feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch brings a more profound auditory output coupled with sharp, snappy tactile feedback. Your choice between these switches may hinge on your preference for sound—whether you appreciate the high-pitched brightness of the Lotus or the deep thocks of the Shadow—as well as your desired tactile experience, ranging from the elastic feedback of the Lotus to the distinct and accented tactility provided by the Shadow. Ultimately, both switches offer unique advantages, so selecting the right one comes down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In the end, your choice between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch should hinge on your typing preferences and the experience you're seeking. If you appreciate a smooth, linear switch that offers a slightly heavier feel and a delightful bounce with each keystroke, the Lotus (Heavy) is your best bet. Its medium-heavy force of 62.5 grams and bright, resonant sound will create an engaging typing experience that's ideal for users who prefer a more fluid motion without the distraction of a tactile bump.
On the other hand, if you’re drawn to tactile feedback that enhances your typing with a pronounced bump, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring should be your go-to option. With its medium-high level of tactility and deep, resonating thocks, this switch will provide a sensory experience that is both sharp and snappy, perfect for those who enjoy a more interactive feel as they type. The dual-spring design gives the added benefit of increased responsiveness, making this switch a great choice for gamers and typists alike who thrive on that tactile and auditory feedback. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you prioritize a seamless linear action or a satisfying tactile sensation in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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