HMX Lotus vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the HMX Lotus and the Cherry MX Red, both linear switches with their own unique characteristics. The Lotus switch from HMX is renowned for its 50g bottom out weight and bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling that enhances each keystroke. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red offers a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, delivering a robust typing experience that blends responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. While the Lotus switch may appeal to those seeking a lighter touch and lively acoustics, the MX Red switch could be the choice for those preferring a more substantial feel and textured sound. 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
N/A
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 Cherry MX Red switches utilize nylon as their top and bottom housing materials, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound effectively due to its softer composition compared to harder plastics. This absorption creates a duller and rounder sound, providing a more satisfying typing experience for users of both switches.
While both switches share the use of nylon for their housing materials, the impact of these materials is slightly different depending on whether it is the top or bottom housing. The bottom housing of a switch, such as in the HMX Lotus and Cherry MX Red, influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. In contrast, the top housing has more of an impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite these distinctions, both switches benefit from the sound absorption properties of nylon, resulting in a similar overall sound profile for users of either switch.
Overall, the use of nylon housing in switches like the HMX Lotus and Cherry MX Red contributes to a consistent typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for enhanced sound absorption, creating a more subdued and satisfying typing sound for users of both switches. While there may be differences in how the top and bottom housing impact the overall typing experience, the use of nylon ensures that users can expect a similar level of sound quality regardless of which switch they choose.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is evident that they have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Lotus has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the bottom out force of the MX Red is unknown. This means that the Lotus is slightly heavier in terms of bottoming out compared to the MX Red. When considering weight, lighter switches like the Lotus are preferred for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods, while heavier switches like the MX Red provide a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a similar actuation force, so users can expect comparable results in terms of triggering keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cherry MX Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Cherry MX Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the HMX Lotus. The 0.5 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a difference in the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the HMX Lotus for its shorter travel distance, which allows for faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Cherry MX Red for its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific feel that each individual is looking for in their mechanical keyboard.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 is known for its bright and resonant click, providing a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is famous for its deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience with a thocky and low-pitched tone. Depending on personal preference, the Lotus may give a more lively and vibrant sound, while the MX Red provides a deeper and more satisfying auditory experience.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Lotus linear switch has a medium weight of 50g bottom out, but specific descriptors about its feel are not provided. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is known for its slightly heftier feel and textured sensation. Textured switches like the MX Red can offer a tactile feedback and noticeable friction when pressed, which may be preferred by users looking for a more engaging typing experience.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lotus provides a bright and resonant sound with a bouncy feeling, while the MX Red offers a deeper and thocky tone along with a textured feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound pitch, tactile feedback, and typing experience, users can choose between these two switches to achieve similar results in terms of linear switch performance. Ultimately, the decision between the HMX Lotus and Cherry MX Red switch comes down to personal preference and the overall typing experience desired by the user.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, you should consider your preference for a lighter, bouncier typing experience with a bright sound profile or a slightly heftier typing experience with a deeper sound profile. If you value a light bottom out force of 50 grams and a super bouncy feeling, the HMX Lotus switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a classic Cherry switch with a robust typing experience and a slightly heavier feel, the Cherry MX Red switch might be more suitable. Additionally, consider whether you prefer a bright, resonant sound or a deeper, thocky sound profile when typing. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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