HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Dareu Sky V4 can significantly influence your typing and gaming experience. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) features a medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g, providing a bright, resonant sound and a wonderfully bouncy feel that makes each keystroke feel satisfying and engaging, which is particularly appealing for those who enjoy a lively typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 utilizes innovative POK material in its top housing to deliver a smooth linear action and a deeper sound signature, resulting in a typing experience that feels rich and satisfying, making it ideal for typists who prioritize a quieter and polished touch. While both switches cater to different preferences, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) leans towards a more dynamic, responsive feel, whereas the Dareu Sky V4 is designed for a refined, thocky experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
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
The HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Dareu Sky V4 exhibit intriguing differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influence the typing experience. The Lotus (Heavy) utilizes nylon for its top housing, a material renowned for its sound-dampening qualities. This allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile when the keys are pressed and released. The softer nature of nylon contributes to the switch's ability to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Sky V4 employs POK (polyketone) for its top housing. This material not only boasts a coefficient of friction that aids smooth keystrokes but also produces a brighter, clacky sound. As a result, while both switches may provide satisfying tactile feedback, the Lotus focuses on creating a more muted auditory environment, whereas the Sky V4 emphasizes a sharper and more pronounced acoustic response.
When examining the bottom housing, both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Dareu Sky V4 again utilize nylon, ensuring a consistency in the fundamental auditory characteristics of bottoming out for both switches. The nylon bottom housing, much like its top counterpart in the Lotus, contributes to a deep and full sound profile, enhancing the overall experience during key presses. This commonality means that regardless of the differing top materials, both switches will offer a similar sound when the keys are fully pressed down, grounded in the softer, sound-absorbing qualities of nylon.
Ultimately, the contrasting top housing materials of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and Dareu Sky V4 encapsulate unique sound profiles and tactile experiences, while their shared nylon bottom housing brings a degree of uniformity to their bottoming out sounds. The Lotus (Heavy)'s nylon tops amplify the subdued, rounded acoustic features, whereas the Sky V4's POK material accentuates a livelier, clacky sound upon release. However, since both employ nylon in the bottom housing, users can expect a consistent depth and fullness in sound when both switches bottom out, highlighting how the material choices can create varied yet complementary experiences within the same typing environment.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, there are noticeable differences in actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying user preferences. The Lotus (Heavy) features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, making it a heavier option that provides a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Sky V4 is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, appealing to those who seek a softer, more comfortable touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. As a result, users who prefer a stronger push feel may gravitate towards the Lotus (Heavy) for its heavier forces, while those looking for ease and reduced fatigue might find the Sky V4 to be a better fit. Overall, the Lotus (Heavy) is the heavier switch, whereas the Sky V4 is the lighter option, making these switches suitable for different typing experiences based on user preference.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, we find that the Lotus (Heavy) measures at 3.5 mm, while the Sky V4 has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Lotus (Heavy) offers a shorter travel distance, making it potentially more responsive for gamers who favor quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Sky V4's longer 3.6 mm travel distance may provide a more satisfying, deeper actuation for users who appreciate that extra feedback with each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus tactile depth.
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 V4 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 V4 for $4.76.
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 noted for its bright and resonant quality, offering a sharp auditory feedback that many users find to be both engaging and invigorating. This contrast with the Dareu Sky V4, which features a deeper, thocky sound signature, creating a rich and satisfying auditory experience when pressed. The Sky V4's low-pitched timbre contributes to its bass-heavy feel, making it ideal for users who prefer a more mellow and substantial sound. While both switches can deliver an enjoyable acoustic experience, the Lotus will be brighter and potentially more energizing, while the Sky V4 fosters a deeper connection with each keystroke.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) provides a super bouncy, elastic sensation, giving ample rebound with each key press. This lightness fosters a sense of fun that enhances the typing experience, making it quite appealing for those who enjoy a lively interaction with their keyboard. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 is characterized by its bouncy response as well, emphasizing a lively and spring-like feedback. Therefore, despite the varying details in their construction, both switches share a bouncy and responsive quality in feel, ensuring that typists will experience an engaging interaction regardless of their choice.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and Dareu Sky V4 switches deliver captivating sound and feel, they do so in different ways. The Lotus is ideal for those who enjoy a bright and resonant auditory experience paired with a playful bouncy action, while the Sky V4 suits users seeking a deeper and more muted sound with a similar bouncy feel. Ultimately, your preference will hinge on how you prioritize the auditory nuances and tactile responsiveness in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you favor a medium-heavy feel with a noticeable bottom-out force of 62.5 grams, the Lotus (Heavy) might be your ideal switch; its bouncy feedback and bright sound can enhance your typing experience, making it particularly enjoyable for gamers or those who appreciate a lively keystroke. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch with a smoother and quieter action, the Sky V4's medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams and its thocky, low-pitched sound signature provide a rich auditory experience that is well-suited for typists who prioritize comfort and sound quality over force. Ultimately, if you enjoy a more energetic and tactile typing experience, go for the Lotus (Heavy), but if you prefer a soft, elegant stroke with deep and satisfying acoustics, the Sky V4 would likely be the better choice for you.
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