HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) offer distinct characteristics that appeal to different preferences and typing styles. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) is celebrated for its medium-heavy actuation weight of 62.5g, delivering a bright and resonant sound with a super bouncy feel for a satisfying keystroke experience. This switch is ideal for those who crave tactile feedback and an engaging typing sensation that allows for greater precision and enjoyment during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) features Ly stems designed for an exceptionally smooth typing experience, paired with a similar resonant sound profile, making it a great choice for users who prioritize fluidity and a quieter operation. While both switches cater to the needs of typists and gamers alike, their unique qualities make them suitable for different types of users. 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
64g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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
Extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials used in the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), it is evident that they leverage different materials to achieve varied sound profiles and performance characteristics. The Lotus (Heavy) features a nylon top housing, known for its softer texture and ability to absorb sound. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile, which many typists find satisfying. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) employs a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper and crisper sound due to polycarbonate's rigidity. Thus, while the Lotus offers a warmer acoustic experience, the Tomcat serves those who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback when typing.
Interestingly, both the Lotus (Heavy) and the Tomcat (Heavy) utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This shared material choice means that the deeper, fuller sound profile generated by the nylon is consistent across both models. The impact of the bottom housing on the overall typing experience remains similar; users will encounter a similar dull and rounded sound when the switch bottoms out in both models. Consequently, while the top housing affects the sound upon key release, the bottom housing assures a familiar auditory foundation derived from their shared nylon material.
In summary, while the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) showcase distinct top housing materials that create contrasting sound profiles during keypresses, they share the same nylon material in their bottom housings. This results in a common experience when users reach the bottom of the stroke, allowing for a nuanced understanding of how the combination of materials affects the overall sound and feel. The split performance—between the softer nylon bottom and the sharper polycarbonate top for the Tomcat, or the warmer nylon top for the Lotus—illustrates how unique construction choices can lead to diverse user experiences while maintaining some similarities in sound quality at the point of bottoming out.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, both have the same actuation force of 55 grams, suggesting that users will experience a similar effort required to register a keystroke with either switch. This similarity means that for typists or gamers seeking a lighter touch for extended sessions, both options would feel comfortable in terms of actuation. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly, with the Lotus bottoming out at 62.5 grams while the Tomcat has a bottom out force of 64 grams. This means that the Tomcat provides a slightly heavier feel at the end of the key press, which some users may prefer for a more substantial and satisfying typing experience. Therefore, while both switches have the same actuation force, the Tomcat is the heavier option overall due to its greater bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, we find that the Lotus has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Tomcat measures slightly longer at 3.6 mm. Although the difference is minimal, if you prioritize a quicker response time and a more aggressive typing experience, the Lotus switch may be the better option due to its shorter travel distance. Conversely, if you prefer a deeper key engagement that provides a more substantial feel, the Tomcat's 3.6 mm distance may better suit your needs. Overall, the Lotus offers a slightly more responsive experience, whereas the Tomcat provides a traditional feel with a bit more 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 Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) comes in at $2.99 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch is recognized for its bright, resonant sound, which contributes to an engaging auditory experience with each keystroke. Similarly, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) also features a resonant sound profile, suggesting that both switches share a vibrant acoustic quality. However, it’s important to note that the overall sound experience can vary significantly based on the keyboard build and the choice of keycaps, making personal testing vital for the best results.
Regarding feel, the Lotus (Heavy) switch offers a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g and delivers a super bouncy tactile sensation that enhances the typing experience, providing a delightful feedback with every press. On the other hand, the Tomcat (Heavy) switch, equipped with Ly stems, promises a super smooth typing experience, which indicates a focus on fluidity over bounce. While both switches aim to create a pleasant typing experience, they cater to slightly different preferences: the Lotus promoting a lively, springy feel, while the Tomcat emphasizes a smooth, effortless keystroke.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches provide a unique experience, catering to different user preferences. While they share a resonant sound profile, the feel diverges, with the Lotus offering a bouncy feedback and the Tomcat providing a smooth typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal typing style and preferences, but you can expect to enjoy a satisfying auditory experience with either option.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing or gaming style. If you enjoy a slightly lighter feedback and a bouncier feel with every keystroke, the Lotus might be the ideal choice for you, as its 62.5g bottom-out force provides a delightful responsiveness that can enhance your typing experience. Additionally, the bright, resonant sound of the Lotus can add an engaging auditory element to your work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial and solid key press, the Tomcat's 64g bottom-out force will deliver that medium-heavy feel you might be looking for. The super smooth typing experience offered by the Ly stems ensures a consistent and enjoyable performance, making the Tomcat well-suited for both typing and gaming scenarios. In summary, the Lotus (Heavy) is perfect for those who favor a lighter, bouncier feel and enjoy a bright sound, while the Tomcat (Heavy) caters to those who prioritize a more refined typing experience with a solid, heavier press. Choose according to which aspects resonate most with your typing style, and you're sure to find satisfaction in either switch.
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