HMX Lotus vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, you are presented with two unique options to enhance your typing experience. The Lotus switch boasts a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, providing a satisfyingly bouncy feel with each key press. On the other hand, the Seashell switch stands out with its stunning purple hue and a lightweight, clacky design that offers a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience. While the Lotus switch offers a super bouncy feeling, the Seashell switch delivers a light and clacky typing experience. 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
1.20 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Lotus and Jerrzi Seashell both utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom components. The Lotus's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Seashell's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer nature that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Despite these differences, both materials are known for enhancing the acoustics of the switches, providing unique typing experiences for users.
While the Lotus features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Seashell opts for a nylon bottom housing as well, sharing similar sound-enhancing properties with the Lotus. The utilization of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent typing experience with a deep and round sound profile. Both switches prioritize sound quality through their choice of housing materials, demonstrating the importance of housing material in creating a desirable typing experience for users.
When comparing the overall typing experience of the HMX Lotus and Jerrzi Seashell, it becomes evident that the choice of housing material plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switches. While the Lotus's nylon top housing creates a softer and more muted sound, the Seashell's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper and crisper sound. However, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience by utilizing housing materials that optimize sound quality. Whether it's the nylon or polycarbonate construction, these switches showcase the impact of housing material on the overall performance and acoustics of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The HMX Lotus linear switch and Jerrzi Seashell linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lotus has a slightly heavier force of 50 grams compared to the Seashell, which has an unknown bottom out force. In terms of weight, the Lotus is slightly heavier due to its higher bottom out force, while the Seashell's weight is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Lotus may be the better option, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Seashell for its potentially lighter bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter range of travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. While the difference between the two distances may seem minimal, some users may notice a slight variance in the feel of the keys when typing or gaming. Those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may opt for the HMX Lotus with its 3.5 mm travel distance, while those who prioritize speed and responsiveness may lean towards the Jerrzi Seashell with its slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Overall, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, catering to individuals with different preferences for keypress depth.
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 Seashell has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Seashell 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 switch is best known for its bright and resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell switch is described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Both switches offer a pleasant auditory experience, with the Lotus delivering a more resonant sound compared to the crisper sound of the Seashell. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile.
In terms of feel, the HMX Lotus switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, leaving the tactile experience open to interpretation. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell switch is described as feathery, easy-to-press, and polished. The Seashell switch offers a light actuation force, reducing finger fatigue and providing a smooth key travel experience. While the Lotus switch may provide a different tactile feel, the Seashell switch's comfortable and low-impact typing experience could be preferable for those looking for a smoother typing sensation.
Overall, both the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Lotus switch provides a bright and resonant sound with a bouncy feeling, while the Seashell switch boasts a stunning purple hue and a clacky, high-pitched sound. In terms of feel, the Seashell switch offers a feathery, easy-to-press experience with a polished finish, promoting comfort and reduced finger strain during long typing sessions. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetic preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium weight and a bright, resonant sound, the HMX Lotus linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a stunning purple hue and a light, clacky feel, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch might be more to your liking. Both switches offer a comfortable and delightful typing experience, but the Lotus provides a bouncier feeling while the Seashell has a more aesthetically pleasing design. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of weight, sound, and feel.
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