HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the unique characteristics of various options. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch stands out with its medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g and a bright, resonant sound that delivers an invigorating, bouncy experience with each keystroke. This linear switch is designed to provide a satisfying tactile response, making it an excellent choice for typists and gamers who appreciate a bit of heft in their keystrokes. Conversely, the Dareu Sky POM switch presents a compelling alternative, characterized by its craftsmanship from POM material, which offers exceptional smoothness and a low-pitched, clacky sound profile. Its gentle actuation force and buttery feel make it accessible and appealing to those who prioritize a more effortless typing experience without sacrificing performance. Both switches cater to distinct preferences, whether one prefers the weighty satisfaction of the Lotus or the creamy fluidity of the Sky POM. 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
40g
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
3.80 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Dareu Sky POM, we can notice both similarities and distinct characteristics that influence the overall sound profile and typing experience. The top housing of the Lotus (Heavy) utilizes nylon, a material renowned for its ability to reduce sound due to its relatively softer composition. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile that is both muted and rounded. Similarly, the Sky POM employs a POM top housing, which also yields a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper side while maintaining a muted quality. Despite the different materials, both switches ultimately create a sound profile that prioritizes depth and a relatively dampened auditory experience, making them similar in overall acoustic characteristics even if the specific materials differ.
Moving to the bottom housing, we find another layer of similarity between the two models. Both the Lotus (Heavy) and the Sky POM feature nylon for their bottom housings. This shared material inherently provides a consistent touch experience and contributes to the deeper sound profile that both switches are designed to deliver. When typing, the qualities of the nylon in the bottom housing become apparent, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. As both switches utilize nylon, the result is a rounded and muted response during key presses. The choice of nylon in this component reinforces the soft yet defined feedback present in both models, demonstrating how different materials can yield similar tactile sensations.
In summary, while the top housing materials differ, with the Lotus (Heavy) using nylon and the Sky POM utilizing POM, both switches are designed to achieve a muted, deeper sound through their bottom housing of nylon. The nylon's properties play a significant role in shaping the acoustic signature and feel of both switches, leading to an overall typing experience that feels cohesive across both models despite some differences in the upper structures. This combination of materials ensures that users can achieve similar auditory results, making either option appealing for those who prioritize a rich yet subdued sound profile in their typing experience.
Weight
The HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch present noticeable differences in their actuation forces, contributing to their unique typing experiences. The Lotus (Heavy) boasts an actuation force of 55 grams, which provides a more substantial resistance that some typists and gamers may prefer for a satisfying, firm feel. In contrast, the Sky POM features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it ideal for users seeking a softer touch that can facilitate extended typing sessions without fatigue. When considering bottom out forces, the Lotus (Heavy) has a measured bottom out force of 62.5 grams, while the bottom out force for the Sky POM is currently unknown. This means that the Lotus switch not only feels heavier during actuation but also carries that weight into the bottoming out experience. Overall, the Lotus switch offers a heavier option suitable for those preferring greater physical feedback, while the Sky POM is the lighter choice for those looking for ease and comfort during prolonged use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, the differences are quite clear. The Lotus (Heavy) has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Sky POM has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Lotus (Heavy) is the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that many gamers favor for quicker actuation, whereas the Sky POM, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who prefer a deeper and more tactile experience. Both switches offer distinct benefits depending on personal preference; if you prioritize rapid response times, the Lotus (Heavy) would be your choice, while those who appreciate a more pronounced bottoming out may find the Dareu Sky POM more suitable.
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 Dareu Sky POM has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky POM for $4.98.
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 is characterized by a bright, resonant tone that suggests a certain clarity and liveliness upon each keystroke. This auditory feedback can create an engaging typing experience, where every press feels significant and contributes to a sense of satisfaction. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch produces a low-pitched clacky sound, noted for its bass-heavy and mellower tone. This difference in auditory profile means that users who prefer a more pronounced and lively click will lean toward the Lotus, while those who appreciate a softer, more subdued sound may favor the Sky POM.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) offers a notably bouncy sensation, thanks to its medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g. This provides a tactile feedback that encourages a dynamic typing rhythm, making each key press feel responsive and energizing. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM switch is celebrated for its buttery, creamy, and silky feel. This means users can experience a smooth and effortless keystroke, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. While the Lotus excels in providing a more engaging, tactile feedback, the Sky POM focuses on delivering a seamless typing experience where each stroke feels fluid and comfortable.
In conclusion, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Lotus (Heavy) is ideal for those who enjoy a lively auditory experience combined with a bouncy tactile feedback, while the Sky POM appeals to those who prefer a smooth, creamy, and quieter typing experience. Depending on your individual preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience, with each showcasing its strengths in distinct areas.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the feel you desire from your keyboard. If you appreciate a more substantial key press with a satisfying bouncy feedback, the Lotus (Heavy) switch, with its medium-heavy 62.5 grams of actuation force and bright, resonant sound, is an excellent choice. This switch offers a delightful tactile experience for those who enjoy a bit of weight and resonance in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with exceptional smoothness, the Dareu Sky POM switch is worth your attention. Its buttery, creamy, and silky typing feel, along with the low-pitched clacky sound, provides a unique typing experience great for long hours of use without fatigue. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal preferences, whether you lean towards the tactile engagement of the Lotus or the effortless glide of the Sky POM to enhance your typing or gaming experience.
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