HMX Lotus vs. Outemu Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus and Outemu Milk Tea offer distinct experiences for users to consider. The Lotus, a linear switch, is celebrated 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 Milk Tea, a tactile switch, has its own unique characteristics to offer. While the Lotus switch may appeal to those looking for a smoother typing experience with a satisfying sound, the Milk Tea switch may be preferable for individuals seeking a more tactile feedback in their keystrokes. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Ly
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 Milk Tea present some interesting contrasts. The Lotus uses nylon for both its top and bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. On the other hand, the Milk Tea features a Ly top housing, which provides a bright sound signature with resonant clacks. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the Lotus is more focused on creating a rounder and duller sound, while the Milk Tea leans towards a more vibrant and lively typing experience.
In terms of the top housing, the Lotus's nylon material absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Milk Tea's Ly top housing contributes to a bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, offering a similar experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. This consistency in material for the bottom housing ensures that both switches deliver a satisfying tactile experience when typing.
Overall, the choice of housing materials impacts the sound and feel of typing on the switches. The split between the bottom and top housings allows for different qualities to come through when pressing down on the switch or releasing a key. While the Lotus and Milk Tea may have different top housing materials, the similar use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures that both switches provide a deep and full sound profile during typing. Ultimately, the selection of housing materials plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience for users of these switches.
Weight
The HMX Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lotus requires 50 grams to fully press down, while the Milk Tea's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Lotus is slightly heavier when it comes to bottoming out key presses. The weight of a switch is important as it can impact typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer lighter switches may enjoy the Lotus for longer typing sessions, while those who like a more substantial feel may lean towards the Milk Tea, provided its bottom out force is on the heavier side. Overall, both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation force but differ in bottom out force, providing options for various typing preferences.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch. The Lotus switch offers a slightly quicker actuation due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Both switches have their own advantages depending on personal preference, with the Lotus being shorter and the Milk Tea being longer in terms of travel distance.
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 Milk Tea 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 that provides a satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch does not have any specific sound qualities mentioned. When it comes to feel, the Lotus switch offers a super bouncy feeling with a medium weight of 50g bottom out. Unfortunately, there is no information available regarding the tactile feedback or feel of the Milk Tea switch.
Overall, if you enjoy a switch with a medium weight that provides a bright and resonant sound, the HMX Lotus linear switch would be a great option for you. However, if you are looking for a tactile switch with specific sound and feel qualities, further information on the Outemu Milk Tea switch would be necessary to make a comparison. Ultimately, both switches can offer a unique typing experience depending on your personal preferences and setup.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when it comes to choosing between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, it all comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a light switch with a bouncy feeling and a bright, resonant sound, then the Lotus switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a tactile bump for more feedback and accuracy in typing, then the Milk Tea switch could be the better option. Consider your typing needs and preferences when making your decision, and don't be afraid to try out different switches to find the perfect fit for you. Happy typing!
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