HMX Lotus vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the HMX Lotus, a linear switch, and the Outemu Maple Leaf, a tactile switch. The Lotus switch stands out for its medium weight of 50g bottom out and bright, resonant sound, offering a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf switch doesn't have any standout features mentioned. While the Lotus switch may appeal to those who enjoy a responsive and tactile typing experience, the Maple Leaf switch could be a more subtle and quieter option for those who prefer a softer touch. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Maple Leaf, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This commonality suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and overall feel. Nylon's softer plastic and sound-absorbing properties contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when compared to harder plastics. This shared characteristic gives both switches a similar acoustic profile, making them suitable options for those seeking a quieter typing experience.
However, despite their similarities in housing materials, there may still be subtle differences in how the HMX Lotus and Outemu Maple Leaf switches sound and feel due to potential variations in design and construction. For example, the bottom housing of a switch typically has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, whereas the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. These nuances may result in slight distinctions in typing feedback and keypress experience between the two switches, even though they both use nylon for their top and bottom housings.
Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Lotus and Outemu Maple Leaf switches may come down to personal preference and specific requirements. While both switches offer similar sound profiles and typing experiences due to their shared use of nylon housing materials, subtle differences in design and construction may lead to variations in feedback and feel. Users looking for a quieter typing experience with a deeper sound profile may find both switches suitable, but those with specific preferences for keypress feel and sound may need to test and compare the switches directly to determine which better suits their needs.
Weight
The actuation force of the HMX Lotus linear switch is 45 grams, while the actuation force of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is 55 grams. This means that the Lotus is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Maple Leaf. When it comes to bottom out force, the Lotus requires 50 grams of force, whereas the Maple Leaf requires 65 grams. This makes the Maple Leaf heavier in terms of bottom out force. Choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference. If you prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions, the Lotus may be the better option. However, if you prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Maple Leaf might be more suitable. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience each switch offers.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, the Lotus has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Maple Leaf's 3.3 mm. While both switches fall within the shorter end of the traditional travel distance spectrum, the Lotus offers a slightly deeper key press experience. For those looking for a faster response time, the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Maple Leaf may be more suitable. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance for quicker inputs. However, for users who prefer a more substantial key press feel, the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Lotus may be preferable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding key press depth and response time.
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 Maple Leaf 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
In terms of sound, the Lotus linear switch has a bright and resonant sound, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch does not have a known description. The sound of a switch is subjective and can be influenced by various factors, so it's important to consider factors like the keyboard build and keycaps when evaluating sound quality.
In terms of feel, the HMX Lotus linear switch provides a super bouncy feeling with a medium weight of 50g bottom out, making each keystroke a delight for typists. On the other hand, there is no known description available for the feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch. The feel of a switch is crucial as it determines the overall typing experience, so it's important to choose a switch that matches your preferred typing style and comfort level.
Overall, the HMX Lotus linear switch offers a bright and resonant sound with a super bouncy feel, thanks to its medium weight of 50g bottom out. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is limited in terms of both sound and feel qualities. If you are looking for a switch with a specific sound and feel, it's recommended to try out both switches in person or seek out more detailed reviews for a better comparison.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and bouncy typing experience with a bright, resonant sound, the HMX Lotus linear switch with a bottom out force of 50 grams would be a great option for you. However, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a bottom out force of 65 grams, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize the feel and sound of the switch, so take these factors into consideration when selecting the best switch for your mechanical keyboard.
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