HMX Lotus vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Lotus linear switch to the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Lotus switch offers a medium weight of 50g bottom out, providing a bouncy feeling with a bright, resonant sound that enhances every keystroke. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch is known for its high-pitched, satisfying click and light keystrokes that maintain a perfect balance between tactility and comfort. Both switches have unique qualities that cater to different preferences - the Lotus for a smooth and delightful typing experience, and the Purple Click for a more pronounced tactile feedback. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the KTT Purple Click, it is clear that they differ in their top housing materials. The Lotus features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Purple Click utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for incorporating RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switch.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Lotus and Purple Click share the same nylon material. This commonality means that typing on switches that use nylon elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. The similarities in the bottom housing materials suggest that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel between these two switches, despite their differences in top housing materials.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can significantly impact the sound profile and typing experience. While the Lotus with its nylon top and bottom housings offers a duller and rounder sound, the Purple Click's combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings creates a crisper and sharper sound profile. Understanding the properties of these materials is crucial for users looking to customize their typing experience and achieve the desired sound and feel from their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, it is evident that the Lotus has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Purple Click's 40 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Lotus requires 50 grams, while the Purple Click needs 55 grams, making the Purple Click slightly heavier in this regard. The lighter actuation force of the Lotus may appeal to those who prefer a smoother typing experience for extended periods, while the heavier bottom out force of the Purple Click may be favored by those who seek a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches offer users the option to choose based on their preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Lotus linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the KTT Purple Click clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Purple Click has a longer travel distance compared to the Lotus. The 0.5 mm may seem like a small difference, but it can affect the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Lotus, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may enjoy the longer travel distance of the Purple Click. Both switches offer unique experiences due to their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of typing 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 KTT Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
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 HMX Lotus linear switch offers a bright, resonant sound that provides a super bouncy and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch emits a high-pitched, satisfying click that is described as crunchy and resonant, similar to stepping on piles of autumn leaves. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Lotus switch providing a cleaner and sharper sound profile, while the Purple Click switch delivers a more pronounced and immersive clicky sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the HMX Lotus linear switch offers a medium weight of 50g bottom out, resulting in a smooth and consistent typing feel. The Purple Click clicky switch, on the other hand, provides light keystrokes with a pronounced tactility that strikes a perfect balance between feedback and actuation force. The Purple Click switch is described as invigorating, offering a snappy and reactive feel that creates an immersive typing sensation. Additionally, it features a stepped design, providing a more mild tactile feel compared to hypertactile switches.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lotus linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Lotus switch provides a bouncy and resonant typing experience with a clean sound profile, the Purple Click switch delivers a satisfying clicky sound with invigorating feedback and a stepped tactile feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a delightful typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, you should consider your preference for key weight and sound. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a bouncy feeling with a bright, resonant sound, the Lotus switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heavier bottom out force and a high-pitched, satisfying click with a crunchy and resonant sound profile, the Purple Click switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for.
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