HMX Lotus vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus and Dareu Sky V3 are two popular options to choose from. The Lotus, a linear switch, stands out for its medium weight of 50g bottom out and bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3, also a linear switch, is known for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, offering a balance of comfort and precision that caters to a wide range of typing preferences. While the Lotus focuses on providing a delightful and bouncy keystroke experience, the Sky V3 prioritizes comfort and precision. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the Dareu Sky V3 offer contrasting sound profiles due to their differences in stiffness. The Lotus's nylon top and bottom housings create a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Sky V3's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, attributed to its stiffer plastic composition. This contrast highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall acoustics of a switch, catering to different preferences for sound quality.
Despite their differences, both the Lotus and the Sky V3 benefit from the use of nylon in their bottom housings. Nylon's softer nature absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound, showcasing the reliability and versatility of nylon as a classic switch housing material. While the top housings of the switches differ in material, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing emphasizes the importance of this component in determining the overall sound profile of a switch.
The split between the top and bottom housing materials in switches like the Lotus and the Sky V3 demonstrates how the characteristics of each material can affect different aspects of typing. The bottom housing, where nylon is utilized in both switches, plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key. In contrast, the top housing material, whether nylon or polycarbonate, influences the sound produced when releasing a key. This division of characteristics highlights the precision and thought behind the selection of housing materials in creating a unique typing experience for users of each switch.
Weight
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Lotus requires 50 grams, whereas the Sky V3's bottom out force is unknown. This makes the Lotus switch slightly heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Sky V3 for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may appreciate the slightly heavier feel of the Lotus for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Lotus linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Lotus has a shorter travel distance compared to the Sky V3. The Lotus switch is ideal for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers who require quick keystrokes. On the other hand, the Sky V3 with its longer travel distance may appeal to individuals who prefer a more substantial key press, providing a deeper feeling when typing. Overall, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a more tactile 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 Dareu Sky V3 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V3 for $4.76.
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 sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is described as having a neutral sound signature, offering a moderate sound profile that is suitable for a variety of typing preferences. The Lotus switch may appeal to those who enjoy a more vibrant and lively sound, while the Sky V3 switch is a versatile option that caters to a wider audience.
In terms of feel, the HMX Lotus linear switch is recognized for its medium weight of 50g bottom out, providing a comfortable typing experience. The Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, on the other hand, is described as offering a mild typing experience, with a gentle feel that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. Both switches aim to provide a pleasant typing experience, with the Lotus switch offering a slightly more tactile and bouncy feel compared to the Sky V3 switch.
Overall, the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Lotus switch provides a brighter and more resonant sound with a bouncy feel, the Sky V3 switch offers a neutral sound signature and a mild typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches are popular choices among enthusiasts and professionals, providing comfort, precision, and a pleasant typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a light actuation force and a bouncy, resonant sound, the Lotus switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile and a medium-light weight that offers comfort and precision, the Sky V3 switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific characteristics that align with your needs. Choose wisely and enjoy your typing experience with either of these high-quality linear switches.
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