HMX Lotus vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Silent Yellow both offer unique qualities for different types of users. The HMX Lotus is a linear switch with a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling that can make typing a delightful experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow is also a linear switch, known for its silent operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Each switch has its own benefits and drawbacks, but ultimately the choice between them depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
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 HMX Lotus and Outemu Silent Yellow switches both feature nylon as the material for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. On the other hand, the Lotus utilizes a nylon top housing, while the Silent Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Silent Yellow allows for a more clear and resonant sound, which is especially beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency.
However, despite the differences in their top housing materials, both the HMX Lotus and Outemu Silent Yellow switches share the same nylon material for their bottom housing. This means that when pressing down on either switch, users will experience the impact and sound qualities of the softer nylon material. The bottom housing has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, contributing to its overall typing experience. Conversely, the top housing material, whether nylon or polycarbonate, will have more of an impact on the sound generated when releasing a key. This split in housing materials highlights how different materials can affect different aspects of a switch's performance.
In conclusion, while the HMX Lotus and Outemu Silent Yellow switches differ in their top housing materials, both switches ultimately provide a similar typing experience due to their shared use of nylon in the bottom housing. The nylon material in the bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile that is consistent across both switches. However, the choice between a nylon top housing for a duller sound or a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound can cater to individual preferences in sound profile and aesthetic preferences. Ultimately, the housing materials of these switches play a crucial role in shaping the typing experience and sound output for users.
Weight
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a more robust typing sensation may opt for the Outemu Silent Yellow switch. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Lotus linear switch is 3.5mm, while the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Lotus has a shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Yellow. A shorter travel distance is often favored by gamers for quicker response times, while a longer travel distance can provide a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer smooth, linear keystrokes, but the slight difference in travel distance may impact the overall typing experience based on personal preference. Ultimately, if you prefer a shorter, more responsive press, the Lotus would be the better option, whereas if you prefer a longer, more deliberate press, the Silent Yellow would be the way to go.
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 Silent Yellow 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 comparing the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, the Lotus stands out for its medium-weight of 50g bottom out and bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. On the other hand, there is currently no information available on specific attributes of the Outemu Silent Yellow switch. in terms of sound, variabilities with factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps will still play a significant role in the overall sound produced by either switch.
As for the feel, the Lotus switch is known for its medium-weight feel and bouncy sensation, providing a tactile experience that many users find enjoyable. The feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow switch is not specified at this time. It can be expected that similar weight specifications between switches may result in a somewhat similar typing experience, but finer nuances in the feel can be influenced by additional factors such as keycap material and keyboard design.
In conclusion, while the HMX Lotus linear switch boasts a specific weight and sound profile, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch lacks detailed information on its subjective qualities. Both switches are linear switches, so they may offer a similar typing experience in terms of smooth keystrokes without tactile feedback or audible clicks. However, individual preferences will vary based on personal taste, making it essential to try out different switches to find the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, you'll want to consider the weight of the switch and the typing experience you're looking for. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a bouncy feeling with a bright, resonant sound, the HMX Lotus switch with its 50 gram bottom out force may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a quieter typing experience, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch with its 80 gram bottom out force may be more suitable. Consider your personal preferences and typing style to choose the switch that will enhance your overall typing experience.
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