HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the TTC Yunhai present two intriguing options, each catering to different typing preferences. The Lotus (Heavy), with its medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g, delivers a bright and resonant sound that enhances the tactile experience, making it ideal for users who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke feedback. This switch offers a satisfying bounce that transforms the act of typing into a delightful interaction. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai excels with its light actuation force, providing a gentle and effortless typing experience. Its deep, rounded sound profile appeals to those who prefer a quieter, more subdued auditory feedback while typing. While both switches are linear, catering to users who prefer smooth keystrokes without tactile bumps or clicks, they evoke different sensations that can influence performance and enjoyment. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the TTC Yunhai both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, making them comparable in terms of build material and auditory characteristics. Nylon, known for its softer plastic properties, contributes to a richer sound experience compared to harder plastics typically used in switches. Both switches share the quality of producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the nylon throughout both the top and bottom housings effectively absorbs sound, leading to a more muted and pleasant acoustic output when typing. This commonality suggests that users can expect similar auditory feedback and typing experiences from both switch designs, ensuring a consistent performance in terms of sound.
While the material is the same for both switches, individual touch and feel can still vary due to the specific designs of the top and bottom housings. The Lotus (Heavy) and Yunhai switches may differ in their physical structure or other internal components, which could influence how they respond during key presses. However, since they both employ nylon in their constructions, the variations would likely manifest more in the tactile feedback rather than in the sound profile. As both switches share the nylon characteristic, they would still produce the same fundamental deep sound when pressed, though the physical sensation might differ based on the respective design features.
Ultimately, while the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and TTC Yunhai excel in producing similar sound profiles thanks to their nylon housing, the differentiation in physical design can lead to unique typing experiences. If users prioritize auditory feedback, they would find little discrepancy between the two models due to the shared characteristics of nylon. However, for those focused on tactile experience, it would be advisable to try each switch to determine personal preference, as the specific engineering of the switches may yield varying levels of satisfaction in terms of feel despite their sonic similarities.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying preferences in typing experience. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) has a stronger actuation force of 55 grams, along with a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing feel. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is ideal for those who type for extended periods or favor a lighter touch. The heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Lotus cater to those seeking a more tactile and resistant feel, while the lighter forces of the Yunhai provide ease and comfort for longer sessions. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences: the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is better suited for users who enjoy a firmer push, whereas the TTC Yunhai appeals to those who prioritize a lighter and smoother keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Yunhai boasts a slightly longer distance at 3.6 mm. This means that the Yunhai switch offers a marginally deeper keypress, which might appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced tactile response. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) caters to those seeking a quicker response due to its shorter travel distance. If you're looking for faster actuation and response times, the Lotus (Heavy) would be the way to go, while the Yunhai might satisfy those who enjoy a more substantial key travel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding tactile feedback and response times.
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 TTC Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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 sound that adds a pleasant auditory feedback to each keystroke. This brightness is often characterized by a certain level of clarity and prominence, making it quite satisfying for users who appreciate the acoustic aspect of typing. Conversely, the TTC Yunhai switch brings a deep, rounded sound profile to the table, providing a muted yet rich auditory experience that is more subdued compared to the Lotus. This difference in sound character can significantly impact the typing atmosphere, with the Lotus being more vibrant and the Yunhai offering a more foundational depth.
When it comes to the feel, the Lotus (Heavy) switch is noted for its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, which creates a super bouncy sensation during typing. This weight contributes to a tactile feedback that can make each keystroke feel rewarding. On the flip side, the Yunhai switch is designed for an incredibly light actuation, making it feel effortless and gentle under the fingers. This lighter touch can be especially appealing for typists who prefer a more fluid typing style, allowing for rapid and uninterrupted keystrokes.
In summary, both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the TTC Yunhai switches offer distinctly different experiences that cater to various preferences among typists. The Lotus provides a bright sound and a rewarding, bouncy feel, ideal for users who enjoy a more interactive typing experience. In contrast, the Yunhai presents a deep, rounded sound paired with a gentle, lightweight actuation, making it suitable for those who favor ease and smoothness in their typing action. Ultimately, selecting between these two will come down to personal preference, as each brings its own unique strengths to the mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when considering whether to choose the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch or the TTC Yunhai linear switch, your personal preference and typing habits will play a crucial role. If you enjoy a more tactile experience with a medium-heavy weight, the Lotus (Heavy) is ideal for you. Its 62.5-gram bottom-out force provides a solid, bouncy feel that enhances the actuation with each keystroke, making it especially appealing for gamers or those who prefer a more pronounced feedback during typing. Additionally, the bright, resonant sound of the Lotus switches adds to the satisfaction of typing. On the other hand, if you gravitate towards a more effortless, gentle typing experience, the TTC Yunhai linear switch is the better choice. With its lighter 50-gram bottom-out force, it allows for quick and easy keystrokes, making it particularly suited for long typing sessions or for those who value speed and comfort over tactile feedback. The deep, rounded sound profile of the Yunhai further complements its lightweight nature, providing a pleasant auditory backdrop for your typing endeavors. Ultimately, choose the Lotus (Heavy) if you prefer a more substantial feel that can energize your typing experience, while the Yunhai will be your go-to option for a light, smooth, and enjoyable typing flow.
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