HMX Lotus vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Lotus linear switch to the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences and needs. The Lotus switch, with its medium weight of 50g bottom out and bright, resonant sound, provides a super bouncy feeling that can enhance your typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro switch is specifically designed for gamers, offering effortless keystrokes, pleasing bassy sound, light actuation force, and shortened travel distance for quick response times. While the Lotus switch may appeal to those who enjoy a more tactile and bouncy typing experience, the V3 Silver Pro switch is ideal for gamers seeking fast and precise key presses. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches, we see a clear distinction between nylon and polycarbonate. The Lotus's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound for a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer plastic that produces a more clear and resonant sound. While both materials have their merits, their differences lead to unique auditory experiences for users.
When it comes to the bottom housings of these switches, both the Lotus and the V3 Silver Pro use nylon. This classic switch housing material enhances the typing experience by eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, with nylon's softer plastic composition absorbing more sound for a duller and rounder sound. Despite the identical bottom housing material, the overall typing experience between the two switches may still vary due to the contrasting top housing materials. It is worth considering how the combination of these materials can impact the overall sound and feel of the switches.
While the top and bottom housings of a switch serve different purposes, they each play a crucial role in shaping the typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, can be felt when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the top housing has more influence on the sound when letting go of a key. Ultimately, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing materials in switches like the HMX Lotus and the Akko V3 Silver Pro can significantly affect the overall auditory feedback and typing feel, making it essential for users to consider their preferences when selecting a switch for their keyboard.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, we find that the Lotus has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the V3 Silver Pro's 40 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Lotus at 50 grams and the V3 Silver Pro at 45 grams. This means that when typing on these switches, users can expect a lighter feel during actuation and a gentle bottom out sensation. Both switches cater to individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for the slight difference in actuation force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Lotus linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Lotus has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Silver Pro. The difference of only 0.2 mm may not be significant to all users, but it could be noticeable to those who are particularly sensitive to key travel distances. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prioritize fast response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference for travel distance and how it affects typing or gaming 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 Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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 switch is best known for its bright and resonant sound, providing a satisfying bouncy feeling with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is specifically engineered for gamers, offering a pleasing bassy sound with effortless keystrokes. While the Lotus switch offers a more resonant sound, the V3 Silver Pro switch provides a sharper and crisper high-pitched sound profile, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lotus switch is known for its medium weight of 50g bottom out, ensuring a comfortable typing experience. The Lotus switch offers a super bouncy feeling, making each keystroke a delight. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the V3 Silver Pro switch is described as creamy, feathery, polished, and silky, providing a smooth and low-impact typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, catering to different preferences.
In conclusion, the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lotus switch provides a brighter and more resonant sound with a medium weight, while the V3 Silver Pro switch offers a sharper, high-pitched sound with effortless keystrokes. In terms of feel, the Lotus switch offers a bouncy tactile feel, while the V3 Silver Pro switch provides a creamy, feathery, polished, and silky typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider the specific needs and preferences you have for your typing or gaming experience. If you value a bouncy feeling with a bright, resonant sound, the Lotus switches with their 50g bottom out force may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize effortless keystrokes with a pleasing bassy sound, the V3 Silver Pro switches with a 45g bottom out force could be the ideal choice, especially for gamers seeking a competitive edge. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for sound, feel, and actuation force. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing or gaming style to enhance your overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
