HMX Lotus vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Lotus and HC Studio Roselle both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Lotus is a linear switch with a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Roselle, also a linear switch, stands out for its incredibly smooth and ethereally wispy sensation, accompanied by a subtle, low-pitched sound signature. While the Lotus excels in delivering a bouncy typing experience, the Roselle offers an unmatched smoothness and unique sound profile. 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
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the HC Studio Roselle, both switches utilize different materials for their top housing. The Lotus features a nylon top housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Roselle employs a POM top housing, which produces a unique, deeper sound that is relatively more muted. While both materials offer a deep sound profile, the nylon top housing of the Lotus may provide a slightly rounder sound compared to the POM top housing of the Roselle.
In terms of bottom housing, both switches also utilize different materials. The Lotus uses a nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to its top housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. On the other hand, the Roselle features a POM bottom housing, which also contributes to a pleasing and unique sound profile on the deeper side. Despite the variations in material, both bottom housings play a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Overall, the choice between the HMX Lotus and the HC Studio Roselle will depend on personal preference for sound profile. While both switches offer a similar deep and fuller sound due to their housing materials, the slight differences in the materials used for the top and bottom housings may lead to variations in sound when typing. Whether one prefers the slightly rounder sound of nylon in the Lotus or the more muted sound of POM in the Roselle, both switches offer a unique typing experience that highlights the impact of housing materials on sound quality.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Lotus linear switch and HC Studio Roselle linear switch differ slightly. The Lotus is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Roselle is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the Lotus would be a better option due to its lower bottom out force. On the other hand, the Roselle may be preferred by those who desire a bit more resistance and feedback when typing. Both switches have a similar actuation force, so users can expect a comparable typing experience in that aspect. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight considerations.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may be noticeable to some users. The Lotus offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for those prioritizing speed and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Roselle provides a slightly longer travel distance, which can offer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 HC Studio Roselle has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Roselle for $4.70.
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 provides a bright, resonant sound that adds a lively and bouncy feel to every keystroke, making typing a delight. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch offers a subtle, low-pitched sound signature that adds a different depth and richness to the typing experience. Both switches provide unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer the bouncy and bright sound of the Lotus or the smooth and low-pitched sound of the Roselle, your choice will ultimately depend on personal preference and the overall sound profile you desire in your mechanical keyboard setup.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lotus linear switch is noted for offering a medium weight of 50g bottom out, providing a satisfying typing experience with a certain level of resistance. Conversely, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch is recognized for delivering an impossibly smooth and frictionless typing sensation, making keystrokes effortless and fluid. Both switches offer a different tactile experience - whether you prefer the resistance and weight of the Lotus or the frictionless and mild feel of the Roselle will depend on your personal typing style and preferences.
In conclusion, the HMX Lotus linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch each bring their own unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Lotus offers a bright, bouncy sound and a medium weight feel, the Roselle provides a smooth, low-pitched sound and a frictionless typing sensation. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, so choosing between them will ultimately come down to personal preference and the overall typing experience you seek. Regardless of your choice, both switches promise a high-quality typing experience that will enhance your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, consider the following guidelines: Choose the Lotus if you prefer a light bottom out force of 50 grams and enjoy a bright, resonant sound with a super bouncy feeling. On the other hand, opt for the Roselle if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 52 grams and a smooth, ethereally wispy typing sensation with a subtle, low-pitched sound signature. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a lighter touch and bouncy feel (Lotus) or a smoother typing experience with a bit more weight and depth in sound (Roselle).
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