HMX Lotus vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves deliberating between options like the HMX Lotus and the Gateron Magnetic Jade. The HMX Lotus, a linear switch, is celebrated for its medium weight of 50g bottom out and its bright, resonant sound, providing a bouncy keystroke experience that brings joy to every tap. This makes it an appealing option for those who prefer a smooth and uninterrupted typing feel without tactile feedback. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade utilizes Hall Effect technology, offering a unique bright and clacky sound that resonates particularly well with users looking to upgrade their Wooting Hall Effect keyboards. This switch is ideal for those who value a superior typing experience combined with enhanced acoustics. Both switches cater to different preferences and enhance the typing experience in their own ways. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX Lotus and the Gateron Magnetic Jade, the differences in their top housings significantly influence their sound profiles. The HMX Lotus features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. This characteristic allows the nylon to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade employs a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances clarity, yielding a more resonant and clear sound, particularly noticeable when the key is released. The materials used for the top housings therefore play a decisive role in the final sound quality produced by each switch.
On the other hand, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, leading to similar outcomes in terms of sound absorption and feel. The nylon bottom housing in both the HMX Lotus and Gateron Magnetic Jade adheres to the same classic characteristics: it elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness. This shared material ensures that when pressing down on either switch, users will experience a consistent bottom-out sound characterized by a dull, rounded tonal quality. Consequently, while the top housings create distinct sound effects, the nylon bottom housings unify their performance at the stroke's bottom.
Ultimately, the combination of nylon in both switches' bottom housings, alongside the differing top housings, creates a blend of auditory and tactile experiences unique to each model. The HMX Lotus's softer nylon top housing delivers a mellow sound that is rounded off by the same material at the bottom, enhancing its plush acoustic quality. The Gateron Magnetic Jade, with a polycarbonate top housing, offers a clearer, sharper sound that is uniquely marked by its material choice, yet the nylon bottom still allows for a similar depth on the release. If users seek a blend of these sound characteristics, they will appreciate that the varying top materials can still achieve an enjoyable typing experience connected by the shared nylon bottom housing, marrying the qualities of both sound profiles to a certain extent.
Weight
The HMX Lotus linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, which can significantly impact typing comfort and experience. The Lotus switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a lighter option. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade switch features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams but a slightly higher bottom out force of 55 grams. This means while the Magnetic Jade requires less effort to initiate a keystroke, it demands more force to reach the bottom, balancing the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the Lotus is the heavier switch in terms of actuation force, making it potentially better suited for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Meanwhile, the Magnetic Jade, being lighter to actuate but heavier to bottom out, offers a unique combination that may appeal to users looking for a gentle initial press followed by a firmer resistance. However, the choice ultimately depends on personal preference regarding typing style and comfort during extended usage.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch feature a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this regard. This commonality means that users can expect a similar feel and feedback when pressing down on either switch, providing a consistent experience in terms of the distance travelled from the top to the bottom. Consequently, those opting for either switch will likely find comparable performance in terms of actuation and responsiveness, enhancing their overall typing or gaming experience.
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 Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Lotus switch produces a bright and resonant tone that is quite engaging. This quality evokes a lively auditory feedback that many typists appreciate, enhancing the overall keyboard experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch is characterized by a similarly bright and clacky sound, which is often favored by those looking for an attention-grabbing auditory cue with each keystroke. Both switches provide a satisfying acoustic profile, though individual preferences may vary based on the specific setup, including the choice of keyboard and keycaps, which can further influence the sound signature.
When examining the feel of these switches, the HMX Lotus offers a medium weight of 50g bottom out, contributing to a noticeable yet balanced tactile response. This medium actuation weight, combined with a super bouncy sensation, results in an enjoyable keystroke that encourages a fluid typing motion. Contrastingly, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch is known for delivering a superior typing experience, though specific details about its tactile feedback are less documented. Nonetheless, it is recognized for its smooth action that complements its hall effect mechanism, making it a compelling choice for an enhanced feel when typing.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lotus and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches excel in delivering a bright sound profile that can make your typing experience more enjoyable, while also providing distinct tactile sensations that cater to different preferences. The Lotus stands out with its bouncy feel and balanced actuation weight, while the Magnetic Jade promises a smooth performance likely enhanced by its unique technology. Ultimately, your choice may depend on personal preference regarding sound and feel, but both options are poised to elevate your keyboard experience significantly.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a lighter key press with a delightful bouncy feel and bright, resonant sound, the Lotus switches are an excellent option for you. They enhance the typing experience with their 50g bottom out force, making them particularly suitable for gamers or typists who enjoy rapid keystrokes without fatigue. On the other hand, if you appreciate a solid medium-light keystroke that combines a bright and clacky sound with superior acoustic feedback, the Magnetic Jade switches are designed for those who seek an elevated typing experience, particularly in a hall effect keyboard setup. Their slightly heavier 55g bottom out force can provide more resistance, ideal for users who prefer a bit more tactile engagement in their typing sessions. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your desire for either a lighter, playful feel or a more robust, acoustically satisfying typing experience.
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