HMX Lotus vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch offer unique experiences for users. The Lotus switch, with its 50g bottom out weight and bright, resonant sound, provides a bouncy and delightful typing sensation. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green switch lacks a standout feature but offers a different tactile feedback. Generally, those seeking a smooth and consistent typing experience may lean towards the Lotus switch, while users looking for an audible and tactile response may prefer the Dustproof Green. 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
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
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 housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches differ in terms of their top housing material. The Lotus uses a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Dustproof Green features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While the Lotus offers a duller and rounder sound, the Dustproof Green provides a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Dustproof Green allows for RGB lighting due to its translucency, which is a unique feature not found in the Lotus.
On the other hand, both the Lotus and the Dustproof Green switches utilize a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile as a result of its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. Despite the difference in their top housing material, the similarity in their bottom housing material results in a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The nylon bottom housing in both switches creates a duller and rounder sound, providing a consistent tactile experience for users. This similarity in bottom housing material showcases how the choice of material can impact the overall sound profile of a switch.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches demonstrates how the top and bottom housings can influence the sound profile and typing experience of a switch. While the Lotus emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon top and bottom housing, the Dustproof Green prioritizes a sharper and crisper sound through its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. Understanding the impact of housing materials on the sound profile can help users make informed decisions based on their preferences for typing experience and sound quality.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, it is evident that the Lotus is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force compared to the Dustproof Green. The Lotus has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Dustproof Green boasts higher forces with an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. This means that the Lotus will provide a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a more effortless keystroke. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green offers a heavier typing experience, ideal for those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference, with lighter switches being better for long typing sessions and heavier switches providing a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Dustproof Green switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lotus switch. In general, a shorter travel distance can provide faster response times, which is preferred by gamers. On the other hand, a longer travel distance may provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific use case. Both switches offer unique qualities, so the decision will come down to individual needs and preferences.
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 Dustproof Green 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch offer distinct experiences. The Lotus switch is known for its bright, resonant sound, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green switch's sound profile is not widely documented, but being a clicky switch, it is expected to produce a crisp clicking noise with each keystroke. Depending on personal preference, one may find the bouncy sound of the Lotus more enjoyable, while others may prefer the precise click of the Dustproof Green switch.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Lotus linear switch boasts a medium weight of 50g bottom out, offering a smooth and consistent typing experience. The super bouncy feeling of the Lotus switches can enhance typing accuracy and comfort. As for the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, details regarding its specific feel are not available. However, clicky switches typically offer tactile feedback with a pronounced bump, providing tactile confirmation of key presses. If you enjoy a more pronounced click and tactile response, the Dustproof Green switch may be the preferred option.
In conclusion, the HMX Lotus and Outemu Dustproof Green switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Lotus switch provides a bright, resonant sound and a bouncy typing experience with its medium weight, while the Dustproof Green switch is expected to offer a crisp click and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preference for sound and feel – whether you prefer a smoother, bouncy typing experience or a more tactile and clicky feel. Both switches offer quality performance, so regardless of your choice, you can expect a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a bouncy feeling with each keystroke, then the Lotus switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a satisfying clicky sound, then the Dustproof Green switch is the better option for you. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and overall typing experience when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best fits your needs.