HMX Lotus vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that they both fall into the linear switch category. The Lotus switch stands out with a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, offering a satisfyingly bouncy feeling with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch doesn't have any standout features highlighted but does belong to the linear switch family. Choosing the Lotus may be preferred for those who enjoy a tactile and audible typing experience, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean may appeal to those looking for a quieter option. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 HMX Lotus and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean differ in their choice of housing materials. The Lotus features 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 Silent Ocean utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Dustproof Silent Ocean allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Despite both switches utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, the difference in top housing material significantly impacts the overall sound profile of each switch.
While both the Lotus and the Dustproof Silent Ocean share a nylon bottom housing material, their distinct top housing materials provide unique sound profiles. The Lotus's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the typing experience with a rounder tone. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean's choice of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a similar deep and full sound but is complemented by the crisper and sharper tones produced by the polycarbonate top housing. This contrast highlights how the combination of different housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound profile and typing experience of a switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean comes down to personal preference regarding sound profile and typing experience. The Lotus offers a softer, duller, and rounder sound due to its nylon top and bottom housing, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean provides a crisper, sharper, and more resonant sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. Both switches have unique qualities that cater to different preferences, demonstrating how the selection of housing materials plays a crucial role in determining the overall feel and sound of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, we can see that they both share the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of initial key press pressure. However, where they differ is in the bottom out force. The Lotus has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience and less hand fatigue, the Lotus would be the better option, as it requires less force to fully press the keys. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean would be more suitable for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a heavier touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, it is evident that the Lotus has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the 3.3 mm of the Dustproof Silent Ocean. While the 0.2 mm may seem like a small difference, it can play a significant role in the overall feel and experience of typing on a keyboard. For those who prefer a deeper key press, the Lotus may be the better option, providing a more satisfying tactile response. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or those seeking a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Silent Ocean 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, giving a satisfying auditory feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch's sound qualities are unknown. When it comes to feel, the Lotus switch offers a medium weight of 50g bottom out, providing a bouncy feeling that enhances the typing experience. Unfortunately, there is no information available regarding the feel of the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch.
Considering the available information, it can be said that the HMX Lotus linear switch excels in both sound and feel aspects, providing an enjoyable typing experience with its bright sound and bouncy feeling. On the other hand, since information is lacking about the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch, it is difficult to make a direct comparison between the two. However, if the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch is similar in weight and construction to the Lotus switch, it is likely that users will experience a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a light and bouncy typing experience with a lower bottom out force, the HMX Lotus linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and are in need of dustproofing, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch would be the better option. Consider your typing preferences and environmental factors when choosing between these two switches to ensure you find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard.
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