HMX Lotus vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus and the Jerrzi Salt Ice offer unique qualities 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 that can make typing a delight. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice is also a linear switch known for its exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, coupled with a light touch for a vibrant feedback and effortless actuation. While the Lotus might be preferred for its medium weight and bounciness, the Salt Ice could be favored for its bright and clacky feel. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
The HMX Lotus and the Jerrzi Salt Ice both utilize different housing materials for their switches, with the Lotus featuring a nylon top and bottom housing while the Salt Ice incorporates a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. The nylon housing of the Lotus creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate housing of the Salt Ice generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition, providing a clearer and more resonant sound experience. While the Lotus's nylon housing is ideal for those seeking a softer typing sound, the Salt Ice's polycarbonate housing is better suited for individuals looking for a crisper and more vibrant sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the Lotus's nylon top housing contrasts with the Salt Ice's polycarbonate top housing - the clear polycarbonate of the Salt Ice makes it a popular choice for switches with RGB lighting, as the translucency allows for enhanced light effects. Similarly, the contrast continues with the bottom housings of the two switches, where the nylon bottom housing of the Lotus offers a softer and more rounded sound profile in comparison to the clear and sharp sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Salt Ice. Despite their differences, both the Lotus and the Salt Ice effectively showcase how different housing materials can impact the overall sound profile and typing experience of mechanical switches.
When it comes to switches that feature different housing materials for the top and bottom, like the Lotus and the Salt Ice, users can expect a combination of qualities from each material throughout the typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, with the characteristics of the nylon or polycarbonate material influencing the overall tactile feedback. Conversely, the top housing has a more pronounced impact on the sound produced when a key is released, with the properties of the respective materials shaping the typing sound profile. By understanding how each housing material contributes to different aspects of the typing experience, users can choose a switch that best aligns with their preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Lotus linear switch and Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch are quite similar, with both requiring an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Lotus has a slightly higher bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Salt Ice, which has an unknown bottom out force. This means that the Lotus switch may provide a slightly firmer typing experience when fully pressed. In terms of weight, both switches are relatively light, making them ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and the desired level of force required for keypresses.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, making them suitable for those looking for quick response times, such as gamers. The difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so users can expect similar results in terms of feel and performance. Ultimately, the decision on which switch to choose may come down to personal preference, with the Lotus offering a slightly longer travel distance for those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses, while the Salt Ice provides a slightly shorter travel distance for those seeking a quicker, more responsive 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 Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
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 known for its bright and resonant click sound, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is characterized by its exceptionally bright and clacky sound, offering a more intense and energetic typing experience. Both switches are likely to provide a pleasing auditory experience, but the Lotus may offer a slightly softer and more subtle click compared to the Salt Ice.
In terms of feel, the HMX Lotus linear switch offers a bouncy and super smooth typing experience with its medium 50g bottom out weight. This switch provides a satisfying keypress with each stroke, making typing a delight. Conversely, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is praised for its light touch and effortless actuation, giving users a responsive and vibrant typing experience. While the Lotus may offer a slightly stiffer feel due to its weight, both switches are likely to provide a smooth and enjoyable typing feel.
Overall, both the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. The Lotus provides a medium weight and a bright, resonant sound, while the Salt Ice offers a lighter touch and a clacky sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. No matter which switch is chosen, users can expect a high-quality and enjoyable typing experience with either the Lotus or Salt Ice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you enjoy a light bottom out force of 50 grams and a bouncy, resonant sound, the HMX Lotus switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force and a bright, clacky sound with vibrant feedback, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch may be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference in terms of bottom out force, sound, and overall typing experience.
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