HMX Lotus vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the HMX Lotus and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream. The Lotus, a linear switch, is best 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 Cream, also a linear switch, offers a heftier typing experience with a fairly deep sound profile. The Cream switch is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', and 'Invigorating'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
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 HMX Lotus and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream both use different housing materials for their top and bottom housings. The Lotus utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Cream features a POM top housing and bottom housing, resulting in a unique and pleasing sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. While both switches aim to provide a satisfying sound experience for users, the choice of housing material contributes to the distinct sound profiles of each switch.
In terms of the top housing, the Lotus's nylon material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. In comparison, the Cream's POM top housing also absorbs sound but produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. The different characteristics of the nylon and POM materials lead to variations in sound output and overall typing experience between the two switches. Despite the differences in sound, both switches prioritize providing a satisfying typing experience for users.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the material used can have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The Lotus's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Cream's POM bottom housing also results in a deeper sound that is more muted. The choice of housing material for the bottom of the switch affects the overall typing experience in terms of sound and feel, highlighting the importance of selecting the right material for achieving the desired sound profile for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it is evident that the Lotus is lighter in both aspects compared to the Cream switch. The Lotus has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Cream switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. This means that the Lotus would provide a lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Cream switch would offer a more substantial and tactile typing feel due to its heavier forces, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, with the Lotus being the lighter option and the Cream switch being the heavier one.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the NovelKeys Cream has a longer travel distance compared to the Lotus. The shorter travel distance of the Lotus may make it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the NovelKeys Cream might appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feeling when pressing keys. Both switches offer different experiences due to their varying travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference on which one to choose for your 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 Kailh NovelKeys Cream 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 Cream 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, resonant sound that adds to the overall typing experience, creating a satisfying auditory feedback with each keypress. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch offers a deeper sound profile that is more bass-heavy and mellow, providing a different auditory sensation compared to the Lotus switch. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lotus switch is known for its super bouncy feeling, offering a delightful typing experience with a medium weight of 50g bottom out. In contrast, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is uniform and effortless. Additionally, the Cream switch offers a textured feel that can cater to users who prefer a bit of friction during typing, as well as an invigorating typing sensation with a firm actuation force. Both switches offer distinct tactile experiences that can cater to different preferences in typing feel.
Considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel, the HMX Lotus switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch offer unique characteristics that can appeal to different users. The Lotus switch provides a bright, resonant sound and a bouncy feel, while the Cream switch offers a deeper sound profile, buttery feel, and textured sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference in sound, feel, and the overall typing experience desired. However, it's important to note that both switches offer high-quality performance and can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of overall satisfaction with either choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a bright, resonant sound with a super bouncy feel, the HMX Lotus linear switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a deeper, low-pitched sound with a buttery, textured, and invigorating typing feel, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing experience and what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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