HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Bsun Taichi both stand out as impressive linear options designed to enhance your typing and gaming experiences, each catering to different preferences. The Lotus (Heavy) is celebrated for its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, providing a satisfying bouncy feel with a bright and resonant sound that makes each keystroke feel engaging and lively. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi elevates the linear switch experience with its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, thanks to its unique long-pole stem, extended springs, and walled stems that ensure unparalleled smoothness and stability. While the Lotus (Heavy) excels in delivering a tactile and auditory delight, the Taichi emphasizes fluidity and reliability under your fingers. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect 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
3.60 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
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
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Bsun Taichi key switches, a noticeable divergence in their top housing materials can lead to distinct auditory experiences. The Lotus (Heavy) features a nylon top housing, which is emblematic of its classic switch design. This softer plastic is adept at absorbing sound, producing a deeper, fuller sound profile that creates a rich auditory experience. Conversely, the Taichi's top housing is crafted from polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that facilitates a sharper and more resonant sound. The translucency of polycarbonate not only enhances the clarity of the sound but also makes it an excellent choice for models intended for RGB lighting, thereby providing visually striking illumination effects that the Lotus (Heavy) may lack.
Despite the contrasting materials of the top housings, the bottom housing component of both switches is composed of nylon, which is known for engendering a deeper and fuller sound profile. This commonality in material means that while the top housings contribute differently to the overall acoustic experience, the bottom housings anchor both switches in a familiar auditory foundation. The soft nature of the nylon allows for sound absorption, paving the way for a muted yet rounded sound that characterizes the experience when bottoming out the keystroke. Therefore, when typing on either model, users can expect a consistent performance in terms of bottom-out sound, despite the differing sonic characters presented by the top housing.
To sum it up, the juxtaposition of nylon and polycarbonate in the top housing yields distinct sound profiles while maintaining a common auditory thread through the nylon bottom housing. Users will experience the lush, warm sound of the nylon bottom across both switches, while the top housing will uniquely shape their perceptions and auditory responses. Those who prefer a fuller experience when letting up on keys may find the Lotus (Heavy) preferable, while those seeking more clarity and brightness might favor the Taichi. Regardless of choice, both switches achieve a level of acoustic finesse by leveraging their respective materials, ensuring a satisfying typing experience across the board.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Lotus (Heavy) features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, reflecting a medium resistance that might appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Taichi switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it more suitable for those who are looking for a less strenuous typing experience and longer usage periods, especially during extended gaming or work sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Taichi is unspecified, which leaves a gap in our ability to fully compare the two switches in terms of keystroke travel. Overall, the Lotus (Heavy) is the heavier option, while the Taichi’s lighter actuation force suggests that it would be more comfortable for prolonged use, though the unknown bottom out force prevents a complete side-by-side analysis.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, we find a slight difference, with the Lotus (Heavy) measuring 3.5 mm and the Taichi at 3.6 mm. This means that the Taichi has a longer travel distance, albeit by just 0.1 mm. For users who prioritize rapid response times, the shorter travel distance of the Lotus (Heavy) may be preferable, as it can provide quicker actuation, making it more suited for gaming. Conversely, those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke may favor the Taichi due to its greater depth, which offers a deeper, more tactile experience. Overall, while both switches fall within a similar range, their travel distances cater to different user preferences, making the Lotus (Heavy) ideal for speedy responses and the Taichi better for a more traditional, hearty key feel.
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 Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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 and resonant sound that rings out distinctly with each keystroke, providing an engaging auditory experience. This quality may contribute to an overall lively typing atmosphere. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi linear switch offers a high-pitched bottom-out sound, which is a result of its unique design featuring a long-pole stem and extended springs. While both switches can create an enjoyable sound profile, the resonance of the Lotus seems to provide a more pronounced and possibly more delightful auditory feedback compared to the sharpness of the Taichi's bottom-out experience.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) boasts a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g that results in a super bouncy sensation, making every keypress feel dynamic and satisfying. This heavier actuation may enhance the tactile experience, giving users a sense of control and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Taichi switch is designed for unparalleled smoothness and stability, thanks to its walled stems and specific construction that aims to eliminate any friction or sticking. While the HMX Lotus may provide an exhilarating bounce, the Taichi excels in a buttery-smooth glide that emphasizes a seamless keystroke experience.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Bsun Taichi linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Those who enjoy vibrant sound and a bouncy feel may gravitate toward the Lotus, whereas users who prioritize smoothness and stability might find the Taichi switch to be their ideal choice. Ultimately, both switches deliver distinct auditory and tactile experiences, making them attractive options for newcomers looking to personalize their keyboards with high-quality linear switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a more tactile experience with a noticeable bottom-out force that provides feedback during your keystrokes, the Lotus (Heavy) with its medium-heavy weight of 62.5 grams and bright, resonant sound might be your ideal choice. This switch offers a super bouncy feel, making every keystroke feel delightful and lively, which could enhance your typing experience, especially if you type or game for extended periods. On the other hand, if your priority is smoothness and stability, coupled with an enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, then the Bsun Taichi switch would be worth considering. With its unique design featuring a long-pole stem and extended springs, the Taichi excels in providing a silky-smooth typing experience that many users find appealing, particularly for fast-paced gaming or extended typing sessions where fatigue is a concern. Ultimately, your choice should align with how you like to interact with your keyboard, whether you prefer a more tactile feedback from the Lotus or the smooth and stable experience offered by the Taichi.
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