HMX Lotus vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Cream Pink 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 Cream Pink, also a linear switch. The HMX Lotus switches are renowned for their medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Pink switches do not have a standout feature but offer a smooth linear typing experience. While both switches fall under the linear category, the Lotus switches may appeal to users looking for a tactile and springy typing experience, while the Cream Pink switches may suit those who prefer a smoother and quieter keystroke. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Cream Pink, both switches use nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches produce a duller and rounder sound when typing, providing a satisfying typing experience for users. The use of nylon in both switches contributes to their similar sound profiles and overall typing feel.
While both switches share the same nylon housing material, the qualities of the top and bottom housings will impact the typing experience differently. The bottom housing of a switch typically affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This distinction means that despite both switches using nylon for their housings, the way in which the sound is produced during typing may vary slightly between the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Cream Pink. Users may notice subtle differences in the sound and feel of each switch based on the distribution of their housing materials.
Overall, the use of nylon as a housing material for both the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Cream Pink results in a similar typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound effectively, creating a rounder and more muted typing sound compared to switches made from harder plastics. While the top and bottom housings of each switch may impact the sound in slightly different ways, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that showcases the benefits of using nylon as a switch housing material.
Weight
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch. The Lotus requires 45 grams of force to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, while the Cream Pink needs 50 grams to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Lotus, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Cream Pink offers a more substantial typing feel with its heavier forces, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. For those who prefer faster response times and a more responsive feel, the Lotus switch would be the ideal choice due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Cream Pink switch with a longer travel distance may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press and feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
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 Cream Pink 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 renowned for its bright, resonant sound and medium weight of 50g bottom out, offering a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. On the other hand, information on the sound of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch is not available, making it difficult to compare the two in terms of auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Lotus switch is praised for its unique tactile experience, providing a satisfying sensation with each press. Unfortunately, details regarding the tactile feedback of the Cream Pink switch are not provided, making it challenging to evaluate the differences in feel between the two switches.
Overall, while the HMX Lotus switch offers a delightful bouncy feeling and a bright, resonant sound, details on the sound and feel of the Outemu Cream Pink switch are unavailable. As such, it is difficult to make a direct comparison between the two switches. If you are looking for a similar experience to the HMX Lotus switch, it may be worth considering switches with a medium weight and bright, resonant sound.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom out force of 50 grams, along with a bright, resonant sound and a bouncy feel, then the HMX Lotus switch is the one for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, you may prefer the Outemu Cream Pink switch. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal typing preferences and the type of sound and feel you prefer in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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