HMX Lotus vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Cold Plum offer unique features and advantages to consider. The Lotus switch, a linear switch, is best known for its medium weight of 50g bottom out and bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Cold Plum switch, also a linear switch, stands out for its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, delivering a smooth keystroke and satisfying sound. Both switches offer enthusiasts a distinct and enjoyable 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
60g
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
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
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
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Cold Plum, both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, resulting in a similar typing experience. Nylon is known for its ability to produce a deep and full sound profile, as its soft nature allows for the absorption of sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, whether it is the Lotus or Cold Plum, the nylon housing materials contribute to a satisfying typing experience with a distinctive sound profile.
However, while both switches share the same nylon housing material for both the top and bottom housings, the impact of each housing on the overall typing experience may differ. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, while the top housing impacts the sound when the key is released. This distinction in the roles of the top and bottom housings may lead to subtle differences in the typing feel between the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Cold Plum, despite their shared nylon material.
Overall, the utilization of nylon in both the top and bottom housings of the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Cold Plum highlights the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience of a switch. While both switches may produce a similar deep and full sound profile due to their nylon housings, the specific impact of the top and bottom housings on the typing feel may lead to subtle variations in the typing experience between the two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Cold Plum may come down to personal preference in terms of how these slight differences in housing materials manifest in the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in weight. The Lotus has a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Cold Plum has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Those who opt for the Lotus will get a similar result in terms of force due to its lighter weight, while the Cold Plum offers a more medium-heavy feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation force and bottom out force in keyboards.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the Lotus switch for its slightly longer travel distance, allowing for a bit more depth in key presses, while those looking for faster response times may lean towards the Cold Plum switch with its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Cold Plum 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
Overall, both the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Lotus switch provides a bouncy feeling with a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, while the Cold Plum switch offers a smoother keystroke and a thocky sound profile with fully nylon construction. Depending on personal preference, the Lotus may be preferred for its bouncy feel and resonant sound, while the Cold Plum may be favored for its smooth keystroke and distinct sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to individual tastes and typing preferences, but rest assured that both switches will provide an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, you should consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel that best suits your preferences. If you're looking for a lighter switch with a bouncy feeling and bright sound, the Lotus with its 50g bottom out force may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a thocky sound profile and smooth keystroke, the Cold Plum with its 70g bottom out force could be the better option. Assessing your typing style and desired experience will help you make an informed decision on which switch to go for.
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