HMX Lotus vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Lotus, a linear switch with a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, and the Gateron Lunar Probe, another linear switch renowned for its incredibly smooth, pre-lubed feel and stable keypresses due to Gateron's dual rail mechanism, it's important to consider your personal preferences. The Lotus switches offer a super bouncy feeling that can make typing a true delight, while the Lunar Probe switches deliver a subtle sound signature along with a smooth linear sensation. Both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches offer different sound profiles and aesthetics due to their composition. The Lotus utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. In contrast, the Lunar Probe features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper and higher-pitched sound. While nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller tone, polycarbonate's stiffness generates a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding a visual element to the typing experience.
Both the Lotus and the Lunar Probe switches share a nylon bottom housing, leading to a similar deep and full sound profile during typing. This consistency in housing material allows for a cohesive sound experience across the entire switch, enhancing the overall typing feel. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to the softer plastic's sound-absorbing qualities, resulting in a rounder and more muted sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, users can expect a similar typing sensation and acoustics when using either the Lotus or the Lunar Probe switches due to their shared bottom housing composition.
The distinction between the top and bottom housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the Gateron Lunar Probe influences the typing experience and sound characteristics of each switch. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become more prominent, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the top housing's material has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This division of housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience, with the top and bottom housings each contributing unique qualities to the overall sound profile of the switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of force requirements when using either switch. Both switches fall on the lighter end of the spectrum, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, they may want to consider options with heavier forces. Overall, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces when using either the HMX Lotus or the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Lotus linear switch is slightly shorter at 3.5 mm compared to the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. Choosing between the two depends on personal preference - if you prefer a quicker and more responsive typing experience, the HMX Lotus may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly more depth and feedback while typing, the Gateron Lunar Probe may be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results due to their closely matched travel distances.
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 Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 linear switch is best known for its bright, resonant sound that adds a satisfying auditory element to typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch boasts a subtle sound signature, allowing for a quieter typing experience. The sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so results may vary based on individual setup.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lotus switch offers a medium weight of 50g bottom out, providing a bouncy feeling with each keypress. In contrast, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is known for its incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, ensuring stable and consistent keypresses with each stroke. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, catering to varying preferences in typing feel.
In conclusion, the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lotus switch provides a bright and resonant sound with a bouncy typing experience, while the Lunar Probe switch offers a quieter sound profile and smoother keypresses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. It's important to consider personal preferences, typing style, and setup when choosing between these two switches to achieve the desired outcome.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences. If you are someone who enjoys a super bouncy feeling with a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, then the HMX Lotus switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer incredibly smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation with stable and consistent keypresses, along with a subtle sound signature, then the Gateron Lunar Probe switch would be more suited to your liking. It is important to consider both the sound and feel of the switch to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the HMX Lotus and Gateron Lunar Probe switch comes down to your individual preferences and typing experience.
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