HMX Lotus vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the HMX Lotus, a linear switch, and the Outemu Black, also a linear switch. The HMX Lotus boasts a medium weight of 50g bottom out and delivers a bright, resonant sound, offering a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Black is known for its undisclosed feature and falls under the linear switch category as well. Depending on your preference, you may choose the Lotus for its medium weight and lively feedback, or the Black for its unique characteristic. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Lotus and the Outemu Black switches both utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom components. The Lotus features a nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Black switch uses a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in top housing material results in distinct auditory experiences for users, with the Lotus providing a duller and rounder sound compared to the Black's more resonant and clear sound profile. However, both switches have a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, showcasing the similarities in their bottom housing materials.
The choice of housing material for a switch can significantly impact the typing experience, as it influences the sound and feel of the switch. While the Lotus and Black switches both have their unique characteristics based on their housing materials, they share similarities in their nylon bottom housing. This shared feature results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on either switch, emphasizing the importance of the bottom housing material in determining the overall sound quality of a switch. However, the differences in their top housing materials lead to distinct sound profiles, with the Lotus offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the Black's sharper and crisper sound.
Ultimately, the top and bottom housing materials of the HMX Lotus and Outemu Black switches play a crucial role in shaping the typing experience for users. The contrast between the nylon top housing of the Lotus and the polycarbonate top housing of the Black highlights the impact that different materials can have on the sound profile of a switch. While both switches have a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, the differences in their top housing materials result in unique auditory experiences for users. Whether users prefer a softer, more absorbing sound from the Lotus or a sharper, clear sound from the Black, the choice of housing material is key in determining the overall sound profile of a switch.
Weight
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a great option for those looking for a lighter typing experience. In comparison, the Outemu Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Lotus switch for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a stronger push may favor the Black switch for a more intense typing experience. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches offer different typing experiences, catering to individuals with varying preferences in key press feel.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch have different travel distances, with the Lotus having a travel distance of 3.5mm and the Black having a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Lotus has the shorter travel distance compared to the Black. The Lotus's 3.5mm travel distance indicates that it falls on the shallower end of the spectrum, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Black's 4mm travel distance offers a slightly deeper key press, which may be more appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of travel distance and key press depth.
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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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
The HMX Lotus linear switch is known for its bright, resonant sound and medium weight of 50g bottom out, providing a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Black linear switch is not provided, so it is difficult to compare their sound qualities. When it comes to feel, the Lotus switch is known for providing a delightful typing experience with its unique bouncy feel, but again, there is no information available on the feel of the Outemu Black switch.
In conclusion, based on the available information, the HMX Lotus linear switch seems to offer a pleasant typing experience with its bright sound and bouncy feel. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Black linear switch are not specified, it is important to note that the overall typing experience, including sound and feel, can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis, keycaps, and personal preferences. Therefore, it is recommended to try out both switches if possible to determine which one suits your typing style and preferences best.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and bouncy typing experience with a bright, resonant sound, the HMX Lotus linear switch with its 50g bottom out force might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch with a bottom out force of 82 grams, the Outemu Black linear switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound. Happy typing!
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