HMX Lotus vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the HMX Lotus and the Gateron North Pole V2, two linear mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences that set them apart. The Lotus switch, with its medium weight of 50g bottom out and bright, resonant sound, provides a super bouncy feeling that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 switch offers a gummy and creamy typing feel with a deep and muted sound profile. While the Lotus switch is categorized as bouncy, the North Pole V2 is categorized as gummy, creamy, subdued, bouncy, and polished. Deciding between these switches may depend on whether you prefer a bouncy and bright typing experience or a gummy and creamy 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the Gateron North Pole V2, it is evident that they both utilize different materials for both the top and bottom housings. The Lotus features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. While the nylon and polycarbonate top housings offer distinct sound characteristics, they both offer unique benefits in terms of sound quality and aesthetics, depending on personal preference.
Similarly, the comparison between the nylon bottom housing of the Lotus and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 reveals differences in sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing of the Lotus contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, similar to its top housing, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 creates a sharper and clearer sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate material in the bottom housing of the North Pole V2 enhances its aesthetic appeal, particularly when combined with RGB lighting. Overall, the differences in material between the bottom housings of these switches play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of typing on each.
When considering the impact of the different housing materials on typing experience, it is essential to recognize that the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings of the switches. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing material for each part of the switch can influence the overall typing experience, with the nylon and polycarbonate materials offering unique qualities that cater to individual preferences in sound and feel. Ultimately, whether one prefers the softer, fuller sound of nylon or the crisper, clearer sound of polycarbonate will depend on personal preferences and typing style.
Weight
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the HMX Lotus is easier to actuate but requires slightly less force to bottom out compared to the North Pole V2. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the HMX Lotus would be the better choice, allowing for extended typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 provides a more substantial typing feel with its heavier forces, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, with the Lotus being slightly shorter than the traditional 4 mm distance. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Lotus due to its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress experience may prefer the North Pole V2. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the overall typing experience desired.
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 North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 offers a bright and resonant sound profile, while the Gateron North Pole V2 switch provides a more subdued and muted sound when pressed. The Lotus switch may give a more vibrant and lively auditory experience, whereas the North Pole V2 switch offers a quieter and more subtle sound signature. However, it's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the HMX Lotus switch is described as providing a super bouncy feeling with a medium weight of 50g bottom out. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch offers a unique gummy feeling when typing, reminiscent of bottoming-out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Additionally, the North Pole V2 switch is also described as creamy, bouncy, and polished, implying a smooth and elastic typing experience with a refined finish.
In conclusion, the HMX Lotus linear switch is known for its bright and resonant sound profile and bouncy feel, while the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offers a deeper and more muted sound with a gummy and creamy typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would come down to individual preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a bouncy and bright feeling with a light 50g bottom out force, the Lotus switches are a great option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gummy and deep typing feel with a medium-heavy 65g bottom out force, the North Pole V2 switches will be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it's important to try them out to see which one suits your preferences the best.
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