HMX Lotus vs. Everglide Oreo
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Everglide Oreo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, it all comes down to personal preference. The Lotus offers a bouncy feeling with a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, making each keystroke a delight. On the other hand, the Oreo provides a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out, offering a medium light tactility for a satisfying yet comfortable 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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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 Everglide Oreo, it is clear that they both utilize different materials for their 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 Oreo utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. However, both switches excel in providing a unique sound experience based on their respective housing materials, catering to different preferences in sound profile.
Moving on to the bottom housings of these switches, the contrast between the nylon bottom housing of the Lotus and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Oreo continues. Similarly to the top housings, the nylon bottom housing of the Lotus contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Oreo enhances the sharpness and crispness of the switch's sound. Despite these differences, both switches maintain their individual sound characteristics, showcasing the impact that bottom housing materials can have on the overall sound experience of a switch.
It is interesting to note that the combination of different housing materials for the top and bottom of a switch can result in a unique typing experience. The qualities brought by the bottom housing material will influence the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material will affect the sound when releasing a key. This split of qualities between top and bottom housings showcases the attention to detail and customization options available in mechanical keyboards, highlighting the importance of housing materials in creating a distinct typing experience with switches like the HMX Lotus and the Everglide Oreo.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, we find that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. This means that users can expect a similar level of sensitivity in triggering keystrokes on both switches. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lotus is lighter with 50 grams compared to the Oreo's 55 grams. This suggests that the Lotus switch may provide a slightly lighter typing experience overall. For those who prefer a lighter keypress for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Lotus may be the preferred choice. Meanwhile, the Oreo, with its slightly heavier bottom out force, may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, it is clear that the Lotus has a shorter travel distance at 3.5 mm, while the Oreo has a slightly longer travel distance at 4 mm. The Lotus offers a quicker response time, ideal for gamers looking for speed and precision in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Oreo provides a bit more depth and feedback, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether you prioritize speed or tactile feedback in your typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so you can expect a similar typing experience with either option.
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 Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo for $4.19.
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 switches offer a bright, resonant sound that adds a lively element to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switches provide a subtle, mellow sound profile that is pleasing to the ears without being too distracting. The difference in sound between the two switches can be attributed to factors such as the switch design and materials used, as well as the keyboard and keycaps being used alongside them.
In terms of feel, the HMX Lotus switches offer a super bouncy feeling with a medium weight of 50g bottom out, creating a delightful sensation with each keystroke. The Everglide Oreo tactile switches, on the other hand, provide a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out. The Oreo switches are described as having a medium light tactility, striking a balance between satisfying feedback and comfort. The Lotus switches, although not directly described in the provided information, can be expected to provide a smooth and consistent typing experience given their linear nature.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lotus linear switches and the Everglide Oreo tactile switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Lotus switches excel in providing a bouncy feeling with a bright sound profile, while the Oreo switches offer a crisp tactility and subtle sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and sound aesthetics. Regardless of your choice, both switches promise to deliver a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the HMX Lotus linear switch or the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, think about your typing preferences and priorities. If you enjoy a light 50g bottom out force and a bright, resonant sound, the Lotus switches from HMX provide a super bouncy feeling that can make typing a delightful experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher 55g bottom out force with a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out, the Oreo switches offer a balanced tactile experience. Ultimately, it boils down to whether you prioritize a bouncy typing feel with the Lotus or a satisfying tactile experience with the Oreo. Both switches have their unique characteristics, so choose based on what appeals most to you.
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