HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Durock White Lotus are compelling. The HMX Lotus (Heavy), with its medium-heavy actuation weight of 62.5g, offers a satisfying linear experience characterized by a bright, resonant sound and a bouncy feel that elevates every keystroke to a delightful occurrence. This switch is ideal for gamers and typists who enjoy the free-flowing motion of linear switches, desiring speed and smoothness without any tactile interruptions. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus presents a more refined tactile experience, introducing a gentle resistance that provides feedback without being overwhelming, catering perfectly to those who appreciate the subtleties of typing feedback during extended sessions. It's designed with aesthetics in mind as well, featuring a removable light column for customizable RGB lighting that enhances the visual appeal of your keyboard setup. While the Lotus (Heavy) excels in delivering a high-energy linear feel, the White Lotus offers a calming and vibrant typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Durock White Lotus switches, it’s clear that there is a notable distinction in the materials used for the top housing. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) features a nylon top housing, which is praised for its softness and sound-absorbing properties, leading to a deeper and fuller audio experience when typing. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus harnesses a modified blend of polycarbonate (PC) and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UPE) for its top housing. This blend is touted for its premium tactile feel, yet it is likely that the harder plastic composition gives a different auditory experience compared to the softer, more muted sound profile of nylon.
In terms of bottom housing, both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Durock White Lotus utilize nylon. This shared material in the bottom housing ensures that users experience a consistent deeper sound when bottoming out the keys. Given that nylon is effective in absorbing sound vibrations, both switches provide a rounder bottom-out sound, enhancing the tactile feedback regardless of the switch's brand. Thus, when it comes to the overall typing experience from this perspective, both switches will yield similar acoustic results due to the commonality in bottom housing materials.
Despite the contrast in the top housing materials, the performance dynamics of both switches might still yield a comparable overall feel. While the HMX Lotus (Heavy) emphasizes a sound profile that might be considered duller and rounder due to its all-nylon construction, the Durock White Lotus may deliver a more premium touch while still maintaining the nylon's sound-editing benefits in the bottom housing. The interaction of these materials ensures that the typing experience remains deeply satisfying, combining the tactile and auditory traits of each housing's material. Thus, while the top housings differ, the consistent utilization of nylon in the bottom portions guarantees that users will find similar auditory qualities in both switches.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch with its actuation force of 55 grams and bottom out force of 62.5 grams to the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, which features an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, we find distinct differences in both typing feel and weight. The Lotus (Heavy) switch is notably heavier, providing a more substantial resistance that some users may prefer for a firmer typing experience. In contrast, the White Lotus switch is lighter, making it more suitable for those who seek prolonged typing comfort, especially during long work hours or gaming sessions. While the actuation force is higher in the Lotus (Heavy) switch, leading to a more deliberate keystroke, the bottom out force is also greater, reinforcing the overall heft of this switch. On the other hand, the White Lotus’s lighter actuation and bottom out forces make it a softer, more responsive option ideal for users who favor quicker responses while typing. Thus, while both switches have their merits, the heavier Lotus (Heavy) is aimed at users who enjoy a stronger feedback, while the lighter White Lotus caters to those prioritizing comfort and ease of use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it becomes evident that they differ significantly. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) boasts a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock White Lotus offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users of the White Lotus will experience a more pronounced depth when pressing the key compared to the HMX Lotus (Heavy). For gamers or those who favor quick response times, the shorter travel distance of the HMX Lotus may be more appealing. However, for individuals who appreciate a sturdier feel and enjoy a more substantial actuation when typing or gaming, the Durock White Lotus will provide a more satisfying experience. Therefore, if you prefer a less abrupt feedback with greater depth, the Durock White Lotus is the better choice, whereas the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is ideal for those who prioritize speed and responsiveness.
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 Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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 is characterized by a bright and resonant tone that adds a lively quality to the typing experience. This sound can be quite satisfying for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus switch offers a low-pitched sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow, providing a neutral auditory experience that is less likely to disrupt others in shared environments. Therefore, while both switches serve different preferences, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) likely produces a more vibrant auditory backdrop compared to the more subdued tones of the White Lotus, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced click when typing.
Regarding feel, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is designed to deliver a super bouncy sensation under the fingers, thanks to its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g. This heavier actuation force can provide a sense of responsiveness that some users find engaging and enjoyable during typing sessions. Conversely, the Durock White Lotus is noted for its gentle actuation, requiring minimal force to press, which makes it easy to use and comfortable for long periods. The White Lotus offers a mild and subtle typing feel, ideal for those who prioritize comfort and wish to minimize finger fatigue. While the HMX Lotus (Heavy) offers a more active typing experience, the White Lotus excels in providing effortless, delicate feedback, catering to varying preferences among typists.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and Durock White Lotus switches cater to distinct typing experiences based on sound and feel. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) is apt for users seeking a bright, resonant sound and a bouncy typing sensation, while the Durock White Lotus offers a low-pitched, mild, and easy-to-press experience ideal for comfort during lengthy sessions. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will hinge on your personal preferences for auditory feedback and tactile engagement, ensuring that whether you prefer a lively or subdued typing environment, there’s a suitable option for your keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To summarize, your choice between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch largely depends on your typing focus and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you appreciate a more pronounced, bouncy feel with a medium-heavy weight that brings satisfaction to your keystrokes, the Lotus (Heavy) is an excellent choice—especially if you're looking for a switch that delivers a brighter sound profile, adding a lively character to your typing experience. This switch is particularly well-suited for those moments when you're engaged in gaming or tasks that benefit from quick and forceful key presses. In contrast, if you prioritize a more gentle, tactile experience designed for extended typing sessions, the White Lotus is your go-to option. Its medium-light actuation and milder sound profile make it fantastic for work environments, minimizing noise while providing a comfortable, easy-to-press feel that reduces finger fatigue. This switch shines in scenarios where you're doing a lot of typing for hours on end, and you appreciate a delicate tactile response without overwhelming feedback. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing preferences and the specific scenarios in which you'll be using your keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
