HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Jerrzi Violet each offer distinct advantages tailored to different typing preferences. The HMX Lotus (Heavy), with its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g and bright, resonant sound, delivers a super bouncy feeling that transforms every keystroke into a delightful experience, ideal for those who appreciate a touch of responsiveness and auditory feedback. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet is designed for a more subtle touch, featuring gentle tactile feedback, smooth actuation, and a neutral sound signature, making it a perfect choice for users who prefer a balanced and enjoyable typing experience without the extra auditory distraction. While the Lotus (Heavy) caters to enthusiasts looking for an engaging, lively interaction with each press, the Violet appeals to those seeking a refined and calming typing environment. 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
45g
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
3.70 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Jerrzi Violet, one significant difference stands out in their top housing composition. The Lotus (Heavy) utilizes nylon for its top housing, while the Violet incorporates polycarbonate. The use of nylon in the Lotus (Heavy) contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as this softer material absorbs more sound waves and reduces harshness. In contrast, the polycarbonate of the Violet's top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, due to its inherent stiffness which allows for greater resonance. The choice of materials directly influences the auditory experience when typing: users of the Lotus (Heavy) can expect a more muted and round sound, while those using the Violet will experience enhanced clarity and brightness in their keystrokes.
In terms of bottom housing, both switches employ nylon materials, resulting in a shared sound experience for the foundational component of the switch. This consistency in bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both models when bottoming out, as nylon's softer characteristics effectively dampen sound vibrations. Such an alignment in bottom housing material means that regardless of the contrasting top housing, users will enjoy similar deep sound qualities during key presses. Therefore, even with divergent top materials, the bottom housing ensures a cohesive auditory experience across both switches.
Overall, the key distinctions in housing materials between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Jerrzi Violet showcase how different compositions can lead to varied sound profiles while maintaining similarities in certain aspects. With nylon serving as the bottom housing in both designs, they deliver a unified bottom-out sound experience, while the differences in top housing amplify the personality of each switch. Users seeking a softer, fuller typing sound may prefer the Lotus (Heavy), while those looking for a sharper, more resonant sound would gravitate toward the Violet. Ultimately, the blend of materials articulates the distinct identities that both switches hold, showcasing how sound and aesthetics can diverge while maintaining foundational similarities.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, there are some notable differences in their actuation forces. The Lotus (Heavy) requires an actuation force of 55 grams, making it the heavier option, ideal for users who prefer a more substantial feel while typing. In contrast, the Violet switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, which may provide a more comfortable typing experience for those who seek to type for extended periods without fatigue. However, the bottom out force for the Violet switch is not available, making it difficult to fully assess its performance in that regard. In comparison, the Lotus switch has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, indicating a firmer stop when the key is fully pressed down. Overall, individuals looking for a heavier switch with a pronounced tactile feedback may gravitate towards the Lotus (Heavy), while those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Violet more appealing, despite the unknown bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, we find that the Lotus has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Violet has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Lotus the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers who favor a quicker response time due to the reduced key travel. On the other hand, the Violet's 3.7 mm travel distance provides a bit more depth, catering to users who appreciate a more substantial tactile feedback and a more traditional feel in their typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your preference for responsiveness or depth—if you prefer a more immediate actuation, the Lotus would be the better fit, while the Violet would satisfy those who enjoy a more pronounced key travel.
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 Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch produces a bright, resonant tone that can enhance the auditory experience of typing. This characteristic sound profile contributes to a lively atmosphere while using the switch, making each keystroke feel more engaging. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switch features a neutral sound signature, which provides a moderate sound level, making it suitable for various environments, both at home and in the office. While the Lotus (Heavy) might be louder and more expressive, the Violet's subtlety allows for a more unobtrusive typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a quieter keyboard.
In terms of feel, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is known for its medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g, offering a super bouncy sensation with each keystroke, leading to a rewarding and enjoyable typing experience. The added weight translates to a firmer feel, which can be appreciated by those who enjoy more resistance while typing. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet switch has a gentle tactile feedback that delivers a pleasing pop at the actuation point, characterized by a stepped sensation. This means that while the Lotus feels bouncier and more dynamic, the Violet offers stages of resistance, making it accessible for varying typing styles without being overwhelmingly tactile.
Considering all of these subjective qualities, both switches provide unique and fulfilling typing experiences tailored to different preferences. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced sound and a bouncy feel, while the Jerrzi Violet caters to those who prefer a balanced, gentle tactile response with a neutral sound profile. Ultimately, both switches can satisfy different types of users, and the choice between them will largely depend on individual priorities for sound and feel in their typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium-heavy weight and crave a bouncy, resonant feel with a dynamic sound that adds excitement to your keystrokes, the Lotus (Heavy) is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a more pronounced feedback experience and plan to use their keyboard for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentler, smoother typing experience with subtle tactile feedback, the Jerrzi Violet switch is designed for comfort and versatility. The neutral sound signature makes it suitable for both quiet home environments and bustling workplaces, while its stepped tactile feedback offers a pleasant sensation without overwhelming you. Ultimately, your decision should align with your typing needs; go for the Lotus (Heavy) if you seek energetic and lively interactions, or opt for the Violet if you desire a more refined, balanced experience.
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