HMX Lotus vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus and Outemu Cream Yellow offer distinct typing experiences. The HMX Lotus is a linear switch 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 Outemu Cream Yellow is a tactile switch that offers a different typing experience compared to the Lotus. While the Cream Yellow does not have any standout characteristics listed, tactile switches are known for providing a bump in the keypress, giving typists a more tactile feedback. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
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
The housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches are quite similar as they both use nylon for both the top and bottom housing. Nylon is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which helps absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon as their housing material. The use of nylon in both switches provides a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
However, if the top and bottom housings were different for these switches, the qualities of each housing material would be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This shows that the design of the housing material can significantly affect the overall typing experience, whether it's in terms of sound or feel.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches offer a similar sound profile and typing experience due to their use of nylon for both the top and bottom housing components. While the design of the housing material can play a role in influencing the sound and feel of the switch, having a consistent material like nylon in both the top and bottom housing ensures a uniform typing experience across the keys. Ultimately, both switches provide a deep and full sound profile that is attributed to the properties of nylon as a softer plastic that absorbs sound effectively.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Lotus has a lighter actuation force, requiring 45 grams to trigger a keystroke, compared to the Cream Yellow which also requires 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Lotus is 50 grams, while the Cream Yellow is heavier at 60 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Lotus may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended use during work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Cream Yellow offers a more substantial typing feel with its heavier bottom out force, catering to those who prefer a stronger push sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Lotus linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking faster response times, particularly gamers. The Lotus offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth compared to the Cream Yellow. However, the difference of 0.2 mm is minimal and may not be noticeable to the average user. Ultimately, both switches will deliver similar results in terms of travel distance, offering a quick and efficient typing experience.
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 Yellow 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 switches are known for their medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow switches have no specific information available regarding their tactile feel. When it comes to sound, the Lotus switches are likely to produce a more audible and vibrant typing experience compared to the Cream Yellow switches, which may have a quieter and less pronounced sound profile. In terms of feel, the Lotus switches are expected to offer a smooth and responsive typing experience, while the tactile feel of the Cream Yellow switches remains unknown.
Taking into account the available information, it can be deduced that the HMX Lotus linear switches are likely to provide a more audible and bouncy typing experience compared to the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switches, which have unknown attributes in terms of sound and feel. However, both switches could cater to different preferences and typing styles, so it is important to consider personal preferences and needs when choosing between the two. Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Lotus linear switches and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HMX Lotus linear switch or the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a light bottom out force of 50 grams and enjoy a bright, resonant sound with a super bouncy feel, then the Lotus switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams and a tactile typing experience without any specific characteristics, then the Cream Yellow switch might be more up your alley. Consider your typing preferences, the sound and feel you desire, and test out both switches if possible to determine which one will provide you with the best typing experience. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what feels right for you.
Mentioned in this article
