HMX Lotus vs. Gazzew LT
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Gazzew LT switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the HMX Lotus and the Gazzew LT mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences to consider. The HMX Lotus is a linear switch with a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT is also a linear switch, offering an enticing lilac hue and a deep, resonant "thocky" sound with a smooth keystroke glide. While the Lotus switches focus on providing a delightfully bouncy feeling, the LTs offer a symphony of deep, resonant thockiness. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 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 and Gazzew LT both feature top and bottom housing materials that play a significant role in the sound profile of the switches. The Lotus uses nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of the material absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT utilizes a proprietary plastic blend for both its top and bottom housing, known as "boba plastic," which also delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. In this case, both switches will offer similar sound characteristics due to the softness of the housing material.
However, when it comes to the impact of the housing material on the overall typing experience, differences can be noted between the HMX Lotus and Gazzew LT. The Lotus's nylon top housing will have a more significant influence on the sound when a key is released, providing a rounder and duller sound profile. Meanwhile, the Gazzew LT's proprietary plastic blend top housing will deliver similar sound characteristics, ensuring that the typing experience is consistent with a rich and deep sound profile. This distinction showcases how the top housing material can affect the overall sound output of a switch.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the differences between the HMX Lotus and Gazzew LT lie in the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. The Lotus's nylon bottom housing will play a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel, contributing to a deeper and fuller typing experience. In contrast, the Gazzew LT's proprietary plastic blend bottom housing, known as "boba plastic," will also enhance the bottom-out sound and feel, ensuring a rich and deep typing sensation. Despite the variations in bottom housing materials, both switches will offer a similar typing experience with their soft housing materials enhancing the overall sound profile.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch differ in weight, with the Lotus being lighter and the LT being heavier. The Lotus has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the LT has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Lotus makes it more suitable for longer typing sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the LT provides a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide unique advantages depending on individual preferences, with the Lotus offering a lighter touch and the LT offering a more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Lotus linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew LT linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Lotus offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the LT. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the shorter 3.2 mm travel distance of the LT. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Lotus. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches may be subtle, but it can impact the overall typing experience based on personal preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus for $2.99.
The Gazzew LT 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Lotus linear switch offers a bright and resonant typing experience, providing a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT linear switch is known for its deep, resonant "thockiness," offering an auditory symphony of bassy and thocky sound profiles. While the Lotus may provide a more lively sound with its medium weight bottom out, the LT's lilac hue sets the stage for a seamless glide and rich, low-pitched sound.
When it comes to feel, the subjective qualities of the Lotus and LT linear switches are not explicitly stated in the provided information. However, based on the sound characteristics described, it can be inferred that the Lotus may offer a more tactile and responsive typing experience given its super bouncy feeling, while the LT's seamless glide hints at a smoother and possibly more effortless keystroke.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The Lotus provides a bright and resonant typing experience with a medium weight bottom out, while the LT offers a deep, resonant "thockiness" with a seamless glide. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. However, with both switches offering distinct characteristics, enthusiasts can expect to achieve satisfying typing experiences with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, consider the bottom out force that best suits your typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch with a bouncy feeling and bright, resonant sound, the Lotus with a 50g bottom out force would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a seamless glide and deep, resonant thockiness, the 65g LT switches would be more suitable. Ultimately, your preference for sound and feel will guide you in choosing between these two switches for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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