HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts often find themselves debating the merits of various switch types, particularly when examining the contrasting features of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB. The Lotus (Heavy) linear switch is celebrated for its medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g, offering a lively and bouncy feel with each keystroke, coupled with a bright, resonant sound that adds a distinct character to typing sessions. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke, ideal for gaming or fast-paced typing. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch brings a nuanced auditory experience, merging a deep "thock" sound with a sharp tactile bump that transforms typing into a luxurious affair. Its quieter operation and refined feedback can cater to users who appreciate a gentle tactile response without the noise, making it suitable for both office environments and late-night gaming. Each switch offers unique benefits tailored to different preferences and use cases; 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The HMX Lotus (Heavy) and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches both utilize materials that contribute significantly to their sound profiles, with each showcasing unique qualities inherent in their respective housing compositions. The Lotus (Heavy) features nylon for both the top and bottom housings, a classic choice in switch manufacturing noted for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a duller, rounder auditory experience upon keystrokes. This consistent use of nylon across the housing results in a sound profile where both the bottom-out noise and the release sound are harmoniously blended, thus enhancing the overall typing experience.
In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB employs a proprietary blend of plastics referred to as "boba plastic" for both the top and bottom housings. This unique formulation also promotes a rich and deep sound profile attributed to its own softness, paralleling the acoustic properties observed in nylon. While the specific material differs, the end result concerning sound quality bears similarities, as both switches prioritize a fuller auditory experience during key presses. The Gazzew blend, like nylon, participates in creating a balanced interplay of sound between the keystroke and release, although the texture and feel might diverge due to the proprietary nature of the materials used.
Ultimately, while the casing materials of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches are distinct, they both fulfill a similar purpose in contributing to an enjoyable typing experience characterized by deeper sound profiles. The presence of softer materials in both switches means that despite their differing compositions, users will likely find comparable results in terms of acoustic feedback and typing feel. This encapsulates the essence of how varying materials, when strategically selected, can lead to sound experiences that resonate with the preferences of enthusiasts in the keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, the actuation and bottom out forces reveal distinct characteristics. The Lotus (Heavy) features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, whereas the U4Tx RGB has a bottom out force of 65 grams but lacks a specified actuation force. This information suggests that, while both switches are categorized as medium to medium-heavy, the Lotus (Heavy) is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force, which may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience for extended use, such as during long gaming sessions or workdays. Conversely, the U4Tx RGB, with its slightly higher bottom out force, may offer a more substantial feel that some users prefer. Overall, the Lotus (Heavy) provides a lighter touch for actuation, while the U4Tx RGB maintains a heavier bottom out feel, aggregating their tactile experiences for different user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, we find that they differ slightly, with the Lotus (Heavy) featuring a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the U4Tx RGB has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference is minor but notable; the U4Tx RGB switch provides a touch more depth, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback in their keystrokes. Conversely, the Lotus (Heavy) offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which might cater better to gamers seeking faster response times. Both switches fall just shy of the traditional 4.0 mm threshold, making them suitable for those who appreciate more modern, responsive designs. If you're looking for a balance between the two, either switch can provide satisfactory results, but choosing the Lotus (Heavy) may favor quick action, while the U4Tx RGB might offer a more robust typing 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 Gazzew U4Tx RGB comes in at $6.50 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) linear switch produces a bright, resonant tone that gives a distinctive auditory feedback, enhancing the experience of each keystroke. This contrastingly bouncy quality can create an engaging and satisfying atmosphere during usage. The Gazzew U4Tx RGB, on the other hand, features a deep "thock" when bottoming out and a quieter sound profile during the topping out phase. This provides a refined auditory experience with a blend of deeper and muted tones, catering to those who prefer a more subtle sound profile while typing. It's important to note that the sound characteristics of both switches can be influenced by the keyboard's build and keycap choices.
When it comes to feel, the Lotus (Heavy) offers a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, which contributes to its bouncy sensation as each key press feels lively and responsive. This switch is designed to provide an enjoyable experience that encourages extended typing sessions. The U4Tx RGB, in contrast, provides a sharp tactile bump that adds a degree of feedback which can enhance both typing and gaming performance. The tactile spike coupled with a softer topping out creates a luxurious sense of tactile engagement, allowing users to effortlessly identify their key presses.
In summary, both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches cater to distinct preferences in sound and feel. The Lotus offers a bright and resonant auditory experience paired with a bouncy keystroke, while the U4Tx provides a refined sound profile with tactile feedback that suits those looking for a soft yet distinct typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize auditory brightness or a more subdued yet tactile response, along with how each switch performs in conjunction with your keyboard’s construction and keycap material.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and the type of experience you seek. If you are drawn to a typing experience that emphasizes a bouncy, lively feel with a medium-heavy actuation force and enjoy the bright, resonant sound profile that adds excitement to each keystroke, then the Lotus (Heavy) would be a fitting choice. Its delightful responsiveness can enhance both casual typing and gaming sessions, offering a unique tactile satisfaction. Conversely, if you prefer a more subdued yet refined keystroke experience with a pronounced tactile bump and a deep "thock" sound upon bottoming out—but with the quietness of topping out—the Gazzew U4Tx RGB would suit you well. With its slightly heavier bottom-out force, this switch provides a luxurious typing experience that caters to both productivity and pleasure. Ultimately, consider your typing style, sound preferences, and whether you seek a more energetic or a refined keystroke when making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
