HMX Lotus vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Lotus and Huano Sakura linear switches each present unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Lotus switch, with its medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, offers a delightful, bouncy feel that enhances each keystroke, making it an excellent choice for users who enjoy tactile feedback and an engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura switches are designed for those who prefer a feather-light touch paired with medium acoustics, providing a comfortable typing experience that is ideal for extended sessions without fatigue. While the Lotus may appeal to gamers and typists who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback, the Sakura is likely to attract users seeking a smoother and quieter option. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX Lotus and the Huano Sakura, the materials used in their top housings present a significant distinction. The Lotus features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to absorb sound because of its relatively soft properties. This allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, lending the Lotus switches a certain warmth and richness in acoustics. In contrast, the Sakura utilizes POK (polyketone) material, which boasts a much higher wear resistance and durability compared to nylon. While POK contributes to a smoother typing experience due to its low coefficient of friction, it is also engineered to produce a clackier sound profile, representing a sharper contrast to the deeper tones of the nylon housing.
In terms of bottom housings, both the HMX Lotus and the Huano Sakura share the same material: nylon. This commonality allows both switches to deliver a similar sound profile characteristic of nylon—fullness and richness—when bottoming out. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing ensures that both switches retain some of the desired properties that typists appreciate, such as sound dampening and a gentle tactile experience. The consistency in bottom housing material plays a crucial role in ensuring that the overall typing experience maintains that desired depth, regardless of the differences in the top housing materials.
Overall, the combination of differing top housing materials, alongside the shared nylon bottom housing, results in unique outcomes for each switch. The distinct properties of nylon in the Lotus provide a particular acoustic warmth, while the POK in the Sakura lends itself to a smoother and crisper typing experience. Consequently, even with a shared bottom housing material, the Lotus and Sakura offer their users a well-rounded and differentiated character in sound and feel, driven by the interplay between the top and bottom housings. Thus, while they may have some parallels, the outcome of their respective materials leads to an engaging variation for typists to appreciate.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lotus features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Sakura offers a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Sakura is generally easier to press, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Lotus has a slightly heavier feel, which some users might prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches are considered light overall, but the Sakura is ultimately lighter, which could appeal to users seeking a softer keystroke. Consequently, if you're after a lighter switch, the Huano Sakura would be the better option, whereas the HMX Lotus offers a bit more resistance for those who appreciate a heavier push.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, it is evident that the Lotus features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, whereas the Sakura has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Sakura provides a bit more depth in each keystroke, which could be beneficial for users who appreciate a more substantial feel when typing. The difference of just 0.1 mm may not seem significant, but it can influence overall user experience, especially for gamers who might prefer the quicker responsiveness offered by the shorter travel distance of the Lotus. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper key press might lean towards the Sakura for its increased travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference regarding key feel and response times.
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 Huano Sakura has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura for $3.29.
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 is characterized by a bright, resonant tone that adds a lively auditory signature to each keystroke. This sound can be quite pleasing and energizing, especially for those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback when typing. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura linear switch offers medium acoustics, providing a more subdued auditory experience. This makes the Sakura suitable for environments where a quieter typing experience is preferred, especially during extended usage without being completely noiseless. However, it's worth noting that the final sound produced can vary greatly depending on the keyboard construction, materials, and keycap choice.
When evaluating the feel of these switches, the Lotus provides a medium weight actuation force of 50g, creating a super bouncy sensation that can make typing feel lively and responsive. This makes the Lotus enjoyable for users who like an energetic feedback with each keystroke. Conversely, the Sakura switch features a feather-light touch, resulting in a more delicate and effortless typing experience. This lighter feel can be especially beneficial for extended typing sessions, allowing users to type with less fatigue. Both switches cater to different preferences: the Lotus for those desiring a punchy, exhilarating feel, and the Sakura for users seeking a more gentle touch.
Considering all of this information, the HMX Lotus linear switch is ideal for individuals who appreciate a vibrant sound with a bouncy feel, providing excitement and engagement during typing. In contrast, the Huano Sakura linear switch is perfect for those who favor a quieter environment and lighter touch, promoting comfort during prolonged use. Ultimately, while their qualities differ, the choice between these two switches will depend highly on personal preferences for sound and feel, leading to distinctive typing experiences catered to individual needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch will depend on your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a slightly firmer feel combined with a bright, resonant sound that adds an engaging auditory element to your keystrokes, the Lotus may be the better option for you. Its 50g bottom-out force gives it a medium weight that can enhance your typing experience, making it suitable for both typing and gaming, especially if you appreciate a bouncy sensation in every press. On the other hand, if you prioritize a lighter touch and are looking for switches that facilitate prolonged typing sessions without fatigue, the Sakura is an excellent choice. With a 45g bottom-out force and medium acoustics, these switches are designed for comfort and ease of use, making them ideal for writers and programmers who spend long hours at their keyboards. Ultimately, your decision should revolve around whether you favor a more tactile and engaging experience with the Lotus or the effortless ease and comfort provided by the Sakura.
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