HMX Lotus vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The HMX Lotus is a linear switch with a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling that can make typing a delight. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry is a tactile switch known for its sharp tactile bump, ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing feel. The Blueberry switches also produce a lower-than-average sound frequency, giving a deeper but not overly "thocky" sound. While the Lotus offers a smooth linear experience, the Blueberry provides a crisp tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches both offer unique sound profiles, with the Lotus using nylon for both the top and bottom housing, while the Blueberry utilizes POM for its top and bottom housing. While nylon is praised for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, the POM housing of the Blueberry switches is said to provide a more muted and unique sound that leans towards the deeper side. Both materials offer a different typing experience with their sound profiles, catering to different preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing, the nylon and POM materials present in the Lotus and Blueberry switches respectively, impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Nylon, known for its sound absorption qualities, creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches, emphasizing the bottom housing's influence on the overall typing experience. Conversely, the POM bottom housing of the Blueberry switches also contributes to the deeper and muted sound profile it offers. Despite using different housing materials, both switches aim to enhance the bottom-out sound experience for users, each with their own distinct characteristics.
When considering the top housing of the switches, nylon and POM also bring unique qualities to the table. Nylon's ability to create a fuller sound profile with its sound absorption properties affects the sound produced when releasing a key, adding to the overall typing experience of the HMX Lotus switches. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the NovelKeys Blueberry switches contributes to the pleasing and unique sound profile which is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. Both housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile of the switches, offering users a variety of options based on their sound preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch showcase a clear difference in weight. The Lotus offers a lighter typing experience with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Blueberry provides a heavier feel with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Lotus make it ideal for those who prefer a gentler typing experience for longer periods of time, such as during work or gaming sessions. Conversely, the heavier forces of the Blueberry cater to individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel for a robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference regarding the desired typing force.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the NovelKeys Blueberry has a longer travel distance compared to the Lotus. The 0.5 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a difference in how the switch feels when typing or gaming. The shorter travel distance of the Lotus may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the longer travel distance of the Blueberry may provide a more satisfying and substantial keypress for those who prefer more depth. Overall, both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, catering to different preferences.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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 provides a bright and resonant sound that adds a super bouncy feeling to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch offers a low-pitched sound profile with a clean and sharp resonance, making it deeper than average but not overly "thocky." Depending on your preference for sound frequency, both switches offer unique auditory experiences that can enhance your typing enjoyment.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Lotus switch is known for its medium weight of 50g bottom out, but specific descriptors for the typing experience are not provided. Conversely, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch is described as snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff, offering a range of tactile sensations for different typing preferences. With a sharp tactile bump and responsive feel, the Blueberry switch delivers a lively and engaging typing experience that some users may find more dynamic and satisfying.
Considering all available information, the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. While the Lotus switch focuses on a bright and resonant sound with a bouncy feel, the Blueberry switch provides a low-pitched sound profile and a range of tactile sensations, making it suitable for those who prefer snappy and responsive keystrokes. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, and choosing between them will depend on your personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a bouncy feel and bright, resonant sound, the Lotus switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharp tactile bump with a lower-pitched, snappy typing feel, the Blueberry switch would be the better choice for you. Consider your typing preferences, sound preferences, and how you like your switches to feel when making your decision between these two unique options.
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