HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. Everglide Sunset Yellow
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Everglide Sunset Yellow offer distinct yet appealing options for users seeking a linear experience. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) is characterized by its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g and a bright, resonant sound, creating a super bouncy sensation with each keystroke that can make typing feel like a joyous engagement. In contrast, the Everglide Sunset Yellow, with its Creamsicle hue, captures attention not only for its aesthetic but also for its captivating sound profile reminiscent of mahjong tiles, delivering a rich, bassy timbre that turns typing into an indulgent experience. The Sunset Yellow features a unique Ly stem and a proprietary lubrication method that provides a polished, frictionless glide, while its short travel and long-pole design ensure a sharp and responsive input. While both switches offer the smoothness inherent in linear designs, their auditory and tactile characteristics cater to different preferences. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
51g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
Single-staged lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Everglide Sunset Yellow, it becomes clear that both switches utilize distinct materials—nylon for the Lotus (Heavy) and POM for the Sunset Yellow—each influencing the sound profile and feel during typing. The nylon in the Lotus (Heavy) is a classic choice known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature. This softness allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the POM housing of the Sunset Yellow also emphasizes a deeper sound, albeit described as more muted. While both materials evoke a satisfying auditory experience, the nuances lie in their specific sound characteristics, with nylon offering a certain warmth compared to the unique clarity of POM.
Examining the bottom housings, the same theme of nuanced sound profiles holds true. Both the nylon bottom housing of the Lotus (Heavy) and the POM bottom housing of the Sunset Yellow contribute to creating deeper sounds, but they carry different acoustic implications. The nylon material in the Lotus (Heavy) reinforces the switch's full-bodied sound experience, adding a layer of resonance that enhances the overall bottom-out feel. Conversely, the Sunset Yellow’s POM bottom housing provides a distinctive sonic quality that resonates uniquely—even if it’s also categorized as deeper and muted, it does so in a way that preserves clarity in the typing experience. Thus, while both switches offer a satisfying auditory feedback, the specific material choices bring varied perceptual and tactile qualities to each typing encounter.
Ultimately, even though nylon and POM offer different characteristics, the end users may find similar satisfaction in their typing experiences due to the inherent design of the switches. The combination of housing materials in each switch splits the auditory qualities across both the top and bottom, filling every keystroke with a rich layering of sound. While the HMX Lotus (Heavy) leans towards a warmer and rounder auditory feedback, the Everglide Sunset Yellow brings a distinct clarity and muted depth that can equally deliver a pleasant typing experience. Hence, despite the differences in materials, users may find that both switches fulfill their needs for a gratifying sound profile alongside a unique typing experience, drawing from the strengths of each housing material.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch to the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, making it a heavier switch that provides a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Everglide Sunset Yellow features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, classifying it as medium-light. This makes it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. Consequently, if you prefer a stronger push feel and a heavier switch, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) would be the better choice, while the Everglide Sunset Yellow would be ideal for users seeking a lighter and faster keystroke. Overall, the differences in force measurements indicate that the Sunset Yellow allows for easier pressing, while the Lotus (Heavy) delivers a more robust tactile sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, the two clearly diverge in their specifications. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the longer option between the two. In contrast, the Everglide Sunset Yellow has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. If you're seeking quicker response times, the Sunset Yellow would be preferable due to its more shallow travel distance, aligning with the recent trend towards shorter distances favored by gamers. However, those who enjoy a more substantial feel may appreciate the greater depth of the Lotus (Heavy). Thus, while both switches provide quality options, your choice depends on whether you prioritize responsiveness or a more pronounced key press 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 Everglide Sunset Yellow comes in at $3.09 per 10 switches.
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
The sound profile of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch is noted for being bright and resonant, giving it a lively and engaging auditory character during use. This switch's sound can be particularly enjoyable for those who appreciate an energetic typing experience. In contrast, the Everglide Sunset Yellow offers a much richer and deeper auditory experience characterized by a bassy, thocky sound. This auditory quality provides a more indulgent and satisfying typing experience, akin to the sound of mahjong tiles colliding. The differences in sound contribute to a unique ambiance, influenced not only by the switches themselves but also by the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch is celebrated for its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, which provides an energetic and bouncy sensation with each keystroke. This delightful tactile feedback can enhance the typing experience for those who prefer a weightier switch. On the other hand, the Everglide Sunset Yellow utilizes a unique Ly stem and factory lubrication that contribute to a creamy, frictionless feel. This results in a smooth typing experience, with key presses happening with minimal resistance. The combination of short travel and a long-pole stem in the Sunset Yellow adds a responsive aspect that can keep users engaged. Each switch offers a distinct tactile sensation, catering to different preferences.
In summary, while the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch offers a bright and resonant sound along with a bouncy feel, the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch features a deeper, richer sound profile complemented by a smooth, creamy tactile experience. These switches appeal to different preferences, but each offers unique qualities that make them enjoyable for various users. Ultimately, the choice between them will hinge on whether one prefers a lively auditory experience or a bassy, indulgent type of sound, as well as those who favor a bouncy feel versus an exceptionally smooth typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, your choice will depend largely on your typing preferences and the experience you're seeking. If you enjoy a firmer feel with more resistance, the Lotus (Heavy) will likely be your go-to switch. Its heavier 62.5 grams bottom-out force provides a super bouncy sensation with each keystroke, perfect for precision typing, gaming, or when you appreciate a bright, resonant sound coupled with a satisfying tactile experience. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter touch that offers a gliding, frictionless feel along with a deeper, bassy sound profile, the Everglide Sunset Yellow is an excellent choice. With its medium-light bottom-out force of 51 grams, it caters to those who seek a silky-smooth typing experience reminiscent of creaminess and ease. Ultimately, it all boils down to whether you prefer a more forceful typing experience with the Lotus or a softer, more indulgent feel with the Sunset Yellow—both switches have their unique charm and functionality tailored to different users.
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