HMX Lotus vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus and SP-Star RedBlue both stand out for their unique features. The Lotus switch by HMX offers a medium weight of 50g bottom out, providing a bouncy and delightful typing experience with a bright, resonant sound. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch is favored for its medium-light typing experience and low-pitched sound profile. While the Lotus switch is categorized as medium-weight, the RedBlue switch falls under categories such as low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished. Each switch caters to different preferences in typing feel and sound, making them suitable for various users. However, let's explore beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the SP-Star RedBlue offer distinct differences in sound profiles and aesthetics. The Lotus uses nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. In contrast, the RedBlue utilizes polycarbonate for both top and bottom housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of the stiffer plastic. Additionally, the RedBlue's clear polycarbonate housing allows for RGB lighting, making it visually appealing for users who enjoy customizable lighting effects.
However, despite their differences, both the Lotus and the RedBlue share similarities in their housing materials. Both nylon and polycarbonate are popular choices for switch housings, known for their durability and impact on sound profiles. They each contribute to enhancing the typing experience by providing a unique tactile response and sound. While nylon offers a deeper and rounder sound profile, polycarbonate provides a clearer and resonant sound profile, catering to different preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of a switch impacts the overall typing experience. The characteristics of the bottom housing material influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the qualities of the top housing material affect the sound produced when releasing a key. This division allows for a balance in sound profiles, combining the unique properties of both nylon and polycarbonate to create a satisfying typing experience for users of both the HMX Lotus and the SP-Star RedBlue switches.
Weight
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch. The Lotus requires 45 grams of force to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, which is on the lighter side of the spectrum. In contrast, the RedBlue switch has an unknown actuation force and a heavier bottom out force of 57 grams, making it slightly firmer to press down completely. People who prefer a lighter typing experience may favor the Lotus switch for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may appreciate the slightly heavier bottom out force of the RedBlue switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and the desired level of resistance.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Lotus linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances favored by gamers for faster response times. The Lotus offers a slightly quicker press due to its shorter travel distance, making it a great choice for those looking for a more responsive feel. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch may provide a slightly more substantial depth to key presses for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and the type of typing experience desired.
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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 it comes to sound, the HMX Lotus linear switch is best known for its bright and resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. While the Lotus switch delivers a lively and vibrant sound, the RedBlue switch provides a more subdued and neutral auditory experience, with a thocky quality that produces a deep and satisfying sound when pressed.
In terms of feel, the HMX Lotus linear switch is known for its medium weight of 50g bottom out, offering a tactile and responsive typing experience. The switch provides a smooth and polished feel, ensuring a sleek and comfortable keypress. Conversely, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is described as providing a mild and gentle typing experience, making it approachable to most users. With a polished finish, these switches offer reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel.
Overall, the HMX Lotus linear switch and SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of both sound and feel. The Lotus switch provides a bright and bouncy sound with a tactile and responsive feel, while the RedBlue switch delivers a low-pitched sound profile with a mild and polished typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of performance and enjoyment.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a smooth and bouncy typing experience with a light 50g bottom-out force, the HMX Lotus linear switch would be a great choice for you. The bright and resonant sound profile of the Lotus switches will make typing a delight. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 57g with a low-pitched sound profile and a more gentle typing experience, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch would be the way to go. The RedBlue switches offer a polished feel and a more neutral sound that is suitable for a wide range of users. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and what feels most comfortable to you.
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