HMX Lotus vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus and SP-Star Meteor Orange offer unique experiences for users. The Lotus switch, a linear switch, provides a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, making each keystroke feel bouncy and delightful. In contrast, the Meteor Orange switch, a tactile switch, offers a gentle and seductive tactility with a neutral sound profile. While the Lotus switch may appeal to those seeking a more tactile typing experience, the Meteor Orange switch caters to individuals looking for a softer touch and a polished feel. 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
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the HMX Lotus and the SP-Star Meteor Orange utilize nylon as their top and bottom housing material for their switches. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound overall, providing a unique typing experience for users of both switches. With the similarity in housing material, users can expect a consistent sound and feel across both the Lotus and Meteor Orange switches.
Despite both switches using nylon for their housing material, there may be subtle differences in the sound and feel due to other factors such as spring weight, stem design, or overall switch construction. These variations can affect how the housing material interacts with the other components of the switch, leading to a nuanced typing experience that distinguishes the HMX Lotus from the SP-Star Meteor Orange. It is important to consider these additional factors when comparing the switches, as they can play a significant role in the overall typing feel and sound.
While the nylon top and bottom housings of the HMX Lotus and SP-Star Meteor Orange share similar qualities in terms of sound production, users may find slight differences in the typing experience between the two switches. The impact of the bottom housing on bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the influence of the top housing on the sound when releasing a key, may vary slightly between the Lotus and the Meteor Orange. Despite these potential differences, the use of nylon as the housing material ensures that both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts of both switches.
Weight
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. The Lotus also has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Meteor Orange has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 57 grams. Those who prefer a light typing experience may lean towards the Lotus switch, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a bit more resistance in their keystrokes may find the Meteor Orange switch more to their liking, as it provides a slightly heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, with the Lotus being lighter overall and the Meteor Orange offering a slightly more tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Lotus linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Lotus has a shorter travel distance compared to the Meteor Orange. The Lotus' 3.5 mm distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the Meteor Orange's 4 mm distance may provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer a deeper switch press. Both switches offer a different feel due to their travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two.
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 SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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 sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of uses without being too loud or subdued. Both switches can offer a pleasant auditory experience, but the Lotus may give a more vibrant sound while the Meteor Orange offers a more subtle and gentle sound.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Lotus linear switch provides a medium weight of 50g bottom out, offering a tactile experience that many users find satisfying. In contrast, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is described as mild, providing a more gentle typing experience that appeals to a wider range of users. Additionally, the Meteor Orange switch is considered polished, offering a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience. Both switches offer different feelings, with the Lotus providing a bouncier feel and the Meteor Orange offering a softer and more approachable typing experience.
In conclusion, the HMX Lotus linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lotus switch provides a bright and resonant sound with a bouncy feel, while the Meteor Orange switch offers a more neutral sound profile and a gentle, polished typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between the vibrant and tactile experience of the Lotus or the soft and refined feel of the Meteor Orange. Ultimately, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by providing unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, consider your preference for actuation force and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a bright, resonant sound, the Lotus switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and a softer, more gentle tactility with a neutral sound profile, the Meteor Orange switch might be the more suitable option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to try them out and see which one suits your typing style best.
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