HMX Lotus vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it's clear that they offer distinct typing experiences. The HMX Lotus is known for its medium weight of 50g bottom out and bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switches are praised for their subtlety, offering a relatively light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. While the Lotus switch may appeal to those looking for a more responsive and bouncy feel, the MX Brown switch is ideal for those seeking a quieter and more tactile typing experience. 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
55g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Lotus and the Cherry MX Brown both feature nylon top and bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The nylon material used in both switches is softer compared to harder plastics, allowing for more sound absorption and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This material choice enhances the overall typing experience by providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each key press.
While both switches share the same nylon housing material, the impact of the top and bottom housings is slightly different. The bottom housing of a switch has a more significant effect on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, whereas the top housing influences the sound that is produced when a key is released. This differentiation in the distribution of housing material qualities can result in a unique typing experience for each switch, as the bottom-out and key release sounds may vary slightly between the HMX Lotus and the Cherry MX Brown.
Overall, the similarities in the nylon housing material of the HMX Lotus and the Cherry MX Brown ensure that users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound due to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon, making them popular choices among enthusiasts who appreciate a satisfying typing experience. Whether you choose the HMX Lotus or the Cherry MX Brown, you can expect a high-quality switch with a premium sound profile that enhances your overall typing experience.
Weight
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches have the same actuation force, which means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sensitivity. However, the bottom out force differs, with the Lotus being lighter and the MX Brown being slightly heavier. Users who prefer a lighter typing feel may opt for the Lotus switch, ideal for longer typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial push feel may prefer the MX Brown switch for a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the HMX Lotus has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Cherry MX Brown's 4 mm. The difference may seem minimal, but for those who prioritize quicker response times, the shorter travel distance of the Lotus may be preferable. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the MX Brown may provide a more satisfying and deliberate key press for those who prefer a deeper actuation feeling. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style. While having a similar actuation force, the travel distance is where these switches differ, so selecting the one that aligns with your typing preferences will result in a more enjoyable typing 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 Cherry MX Brown 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Lotus linear switch offers a bright, resonant sound that provides a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is characterized by a subtle and subdued audio feedback, creating a more low-pitched and bassy sound profile. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lotus linear switch is known for providing a medium weight of 50g bottom out, offering a delightful tactile experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is described as having a textured feel, with noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer the smoother, friction-free typing experience of the Lotus switch, while others may enjoy the subtle texture of the MX Brown switch.
Overall, the HMX Lotus linear switch and Cherry MX Brown tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lotus switch provides a bright and bouncy sound with a medium weight feel, while the MX Brown switch offers a more subdued sound profile with a textured typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with each catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a light and bouncy feel with a bright, resonant sound, the Lotus switches may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback, the MX Brown switches might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of feel and sound. Happy typing!
Mentioned in this article
