HMX Lotus vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Lotus linear switch to the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it's evident that each offers unique features that cater to different preferences. The HMX Lotus provides a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, giving it a super bouncy feeling that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switches, known for their low-pitched, textured, and stiff characteristics, offer a classic textured smoothness with a deep sound profile. While both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different users, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the Cherry MX Black are very similar, as both switches use nylon for their top and bottom housing. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches made with this material. This softer plastic creates a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics, giving a unique typing experience for users of both switches.
While both the Lotus and the MX Black utilize nylon for their housing materials, the way in which these materials are utilized may differ. The qualities of the nylon top housing are mostly felt when releasing a key, impacting the sound produced when typing on the switch. In contrast, the characteristics of the nylon bottom housing come into play when pressing down on a key, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. This split between the top and bottom housings allows for a more dynamic typing experience for users of both switches.
Overall, the housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the Cherry MX Black contribute to their unique sound profiles and typing experiences. The use of nylon as a housing material enhances the depth and fullness of the sound produced when typing on these switches. While the top and bottom housings may have different impacts on the overall typing experience, both switches offer a similar level of sound absorption and a satisfying typing feel for users looking for a switch with nylon housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, there are notable differences between the two. The Lotus has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the MX Black's heavier actuation force of 60 grams. Similarly, the Lotus has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, while the MX Black has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. This means that the Lotus switch will require less force to activate and fully press down compared to the MX Black switch. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience and may need to type for extended periods, the Lotus switch may be more suitable. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial and heavier typing feel might lean towards the MX Black switch for a more tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Cherry MX Black linear switch's travel distance of 4 mm. The Lotus offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers who value speed and precision. On the other hand, the MX Black provides a slightly deeper key press due to its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the individual user. Both switches offer high-quality performance, but the Lotus may provide a slightly faster and more responsive typing experience compared to the MX Black.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Lotus linear switch provides a bright, resonant sound that adds a satisfyingly bouncy quality to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, which is typically bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches may produce a pleasant auditory experience, but the Lotus switch might offer a more vibrant and lively sound, while the MX Black switch provides a deep and classic typing sound.
Moving on to the feel, the Lotus switch is known for delivering a super bouncy feeling with a medium weight of 50g bottom out. Unfortunately, specific descriptors of the feel for the MX Black switch are not provided. However, the MX Black switch is known to feature Cherry's Hyperglide tooling, offering a textured smoothness that may enhance the typing experience. Additionally, the MX Black switch may have a stiffer feel, requiring more force to actuate and bottom out compared to other switches.
Overall, the HMX Lotus linear switch is praised for its vibrant sound and bouncy feel, making every keystroke a delight. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch offers a classic deep sound and may provide a smoother typing experience with its textured feel. While both switches are linear and may offer similar results in terms of smoothness and lack of tactile feedback, the decision between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, you should consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a lighter touch and a bouncy feeling with each keystroke, then the HMX Lotus switch with a 50g bottom out force may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier touch and a smoother, textured typing experience with a deeper sound profile, then the Cherry MX Black switch with an 80g bottom out force may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you prefer.
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