HMX Lotus vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the HMX Lotus, a linear switch, and the Outemu Phoenix, a clicky switch. The Lotus switch, with its medium weight of 50g bottom out and bright, resonant sound, offers a super bouncy feeling that can make typing a delightful experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch is distinguished by its under-skirt click mechanism, providing a unique crunchy and polished feel and sound profile that sets it apart from other clicky switches. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Phoenix, we see a clear difference in the materials used for both the top and bottom housings. The Lotus features a nylon top and bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Phoenix utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile attributed to its stiffer plastic composition. While both materials have their unique sound qualities, the polycarbonate in the Phoenix lends itself well to RGB lighting due to its translucency, providing an added aesthetic appeal.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the HMX Lotus and the Outemu Phoenix, both switches showcase the impact that top and bottom housing materials can have on the overall sound profile. The nylon bottom housing of the Lotus contributes to a deeper and fuller sound upon bottoming out a key, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phoenix leads to a sharper and crisper sound, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The differentiation between the top and bottom housing materials emphasizes how each component plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Overall, while the nylon and polycarbonate housing materials of the HMX Lotus and Outemu Phoenix offer distinct sound profiles, they both exemplify the importance of housing materials in switch performance. The softer nature of nylon in the Lotus provides a unique typing experience with a deep and full sound, while the stiffer polycarbonate in the Phoenix delivers a sharp and resonant sound profile. Whether it be for sound quality, aesthetic appeal, or typing feel, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Weight
The HMX Lotus linear switch is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch. The Lotus requires 45 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 50 grams to bottom out, while the Phoenix's actuation force is unknown with a bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the Lotus is more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Phoenix provides a more substantial typing feel with a heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and whether a lighter or heavier force is desired.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, we can see that the Lotus has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Phoenix has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular for their quicker response times, particularly favored by gamers. The Lotus with its 3.5 mm travel distance may provide a slightly deeper feel when pressed, while the Phoenix with its 3.3 mm travel distance may feel a bit more abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for travel distance - with the Lotus offering a slightly longer travel distance and the Phoenix offering a slightly shorter one.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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
Overall, the HMX Lotus linear switch is known for its bright, resonant sound and super bouncy feeling, making every keystroke a delight. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch stands out for its under-skirt click mechanism, providing a unique crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile. When it comes to sound, the Lotus offers a medium weight of 50g bottom out, whereas the Phoenix is described as crunchy, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. In terms of feel, the Lotus's specific characteristics are unknown, while the Phoenix is polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Depending on personal preferences, both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience, catering to different needs and preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you are looking for a light and bouncy keystroke with a bright and resonant sound, the Lotus switch may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium clicky switch with a unique under-skirt mechanism that provides a crystalline and sparkling sound profile, the Phoenix switch may be the better choice. Consider what qualities are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch, whether it be feel, sound, or typing experience, and make your decision based on that. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and needs.
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