HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) both offer linear experiences but cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. The Lotus (Heavy), with its 62.5g actuation force, is renowned for its bright, resonant sound and super bouncy feel, making every keystroke a delightful experience. This switch is ideal for users who appreciate a heavier tactile response that enhances their typing rhythm. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) takes a more refined approach, utilizing a unique PA12 top housing that produces a softer acoustic profile, paired with a POM stem that delivers a crisp, higher-pitched sound. This switch appeals to those who seek a sophisticated yet powerful performance, offering an elegant typing experience without sacrificing responsiveness. Ultimately, both switches are designed to provide a fulfilling typing experience, but they do so with distinctly different acoustic signatures and tactile sensations. 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
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) are strikingly similar, as both utilize nylon for their construction. This choice of material for both the top and bottom housings provides a consistent performance characteristic across both switches. Nylon is well-regarded in the keyboard community for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, attributed to its softer plastic composition. This softness allows the material to absorb sound waves more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. As such, users can expect a similar acoustic signature from both the Lotus and the Xinhai when typing, provided that all other factors remain constant.
Despite the identical choice of nylon for both the top and bottom housings in the HMX Lotus and HMX Xinhai, the experience of typing can still be influenced by the assembly of each switch. When a user presses down on either switch, the bottom housing's characteristics will primarily dictate the bottom-out feel and sound. Given that both switches feature nylon for their bottom housings, the tactile feedback and sound produced at the actuation point should feel remarkably similar. Conversely, the release sound and sensation is shaped more by the top housing, and since nylon is employed in both cases, this aspect of the typing experience becomes consistent as well.
In essence, the use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) ensures that users will have a comparable auditory and tactile experience. The inherent properties of nylon mean that regardless of any minor variations in assembly or design, the outcome will deliver a rich sound profile respective to each switch's characteristics. Therefore, anyone experiencing either switch can confidently expect similar results, with each contributing to a harmonious typing experience where the richness of sound and feel is prioritized.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, it's important to note that both switches share identical specifications, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This means users can expect similar results in terms of keystroke activation and feel for both switches. Since both switches have the same weight, they cater to a balanced typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users; those who prefer a moderate force for extended typing sessions will find them suitable for both work and gaming environments. Ultimately, since both switches are equal in force, users can choose either with confidence, knowing they will experience a consistent typing feel without major differences in actuation or bottom out pressure.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, the Lotus offers a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Xinhai has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Lotus switch requires a bit more effort to press down compared to the Xinhai, catering to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Xinhai's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a snappier keyboard experience. Consequently, if you value a deeper press, the Lotus switch would likely be more suitable for you, whereas if you favor quicker actuation, the Xinhai switch may enhance your performance. Overall, the subtle difference in travel distances contributes to distinct tactile experiences, highlighting individual preferences in switch selection.
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 HMX Xinhai (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 Xinhai (Heavy) for $3.19.
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 produces a bright and resonant tone, creating an engaging acoustic experience with each key press. This lively sound profile contributes to an overall enjoyable typing rhythm, making it a popular choice for those who appreciate auditory feedback while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch features a unique PA12 top housing that enhances its softer acoustic profile combined with a POM stem, resulting in a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. While the Xinhai's sound is more subtle and refined, it still delivers an engaging auditory response, albeit in a different manner than the Lotus.
When it comes to feel, the Lotus (Heavy) boasts a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g that provides a super bouncy sensation, making every keystroke feel delightful and encouraging a lively typing experience. This responsiveness can be very satisfying, particularly for users who favor a more dynamic touch. Conversely, the Xinhai (Heavy), being the heavier variant of the classic switch, likely maintains a solid and robust typing feel, with its heavier weight contributing to a firmer keystroke experience. The combination of its heavier actuating force and high-quality materials is designed for precise performance, offering a different type of satisfaction as compared to the bounciness of the Lotus.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches cater to different preferences with their distinct sound profiles and tactile sensations. The Lotus is vibrant and bouncy, while the Xinhai leans towards a subtler, crisper auditory experience alongside a firmer touch. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prefer lively auditory feedback and a springy feel or a refined sound with a heavier keystroke.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a bright and resonant audio profile with a lively bounce to your keystrokes, the Lotus (Heavy) is the clear choice; its medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5 grams ensures a delightful typing experience that feels both responsive and satisfying. On the other hand, if you prefer quieter, softer acoustics with a focus on a crisp, high-pitched resonance, the Xinhai (Heavy) will serve you well. Its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem combine to create a subtle yet sophisticated sound profile, providing a more refined tactile feedback with every keystroke. Ultimately, assessing your own typing style and environment will help you decide: go for the Lotus for spirited feedback or the Xinhai for elegant performance.
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