HMX Lotus vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Gold mechanical keyboard switches, there are key differences to consider. The Lotus is a linear switch known for its medium weight of 50g bottom out and bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Gold is a clicky switch without any specific standout features. If you prefer a smooth and consistent typing experience with a satisfying sound, the Lotus may be the better choice. 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
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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 Outemu Gold switches offer distinct characteristics when it comes to the sound profile they create. The Lotus's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Gold's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that results in a more clear and resonant sound. The aesthetic difference is also notable, with the translucent polycarbonate top housing being more suitable for switches planned to be used with RGB lighting.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Lotus and Gold switches utilize nylon material, providing a similar deep and full sound profile. The characteristics of nylon, as a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, result in a duller and rounder sound for both switches. This consistency in bottom housing material ensures a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel for both the Lotus and Gold switches.
While the top and bottom housings of the HMX Lotus and Outemu Gold switches differ in material, the impact of each housing on the overall sound profile is distinct. The qualities of the bottom housing primarily affect the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed, whereas the top housing has more influence on the sound produced when a key is released. This split in housing materials showcases the importance of both top and bottom housing in determining the overall typing experience and sound profile of a switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it is evident that the Lotus is lighter in both aspects. The Lotus has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Gold has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Lotus requires less force to trigger a keystroke and less force to bottom out compared to the Gold switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Lotus would be the ideal choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Gold switch provides a more substantial and tactile typing experience with its slightly heavier bottom out force. In conclusion, while both switches have the same actuation force, the difference in bottom out force results in the Lotus being lighter and the Gold being heavier, catering to different preferences for typing sensations.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Gold clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Gold clicky switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the HMX Lotus linear switch. The Lotus switch falls within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular for gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Gold switch may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress depth. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their varied travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their preference for keypress 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 Gold 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 is known for its bright and resonant click, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch's sound qualities are not specified, so it is hard to compare them directly. The sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard's construction and keycap materials used.
In the realm of feel, the HMX Lotus linear switch offers a medium weight of 50g bottom out, giving it a smooth and bouncy sensation that many users find enjoyable. In contrast, there is no specific information available about the feel of the Outemu Gold clicky switch, making it difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. Nonetheless, it is important to note that the feel of a switch can be subjective and influenced by personal preferences.
While the HMX Lotus linear switch is praised for its bright, resonant sound and medium weight feel, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Gold clicky switch remain unknown. Despite this, both switches have their own unique characteristics that can cater to different preferences. Ultimately, when comparing these switches, it is important to consider factors such as sound, feel, and personal preferences to determine which one would be the best fit for your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a light, bouncy feeling with a bright, resonant sound, the Lotus switch with a bottom out force of 50 grams may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and enjoy a satisfying clicky sound with each keystroke, the Gold switch may be more suited to your preferences. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and weight when making your decision, and choose the switch that best fits your typing preferences.
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