HMX Lotus vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus and Gateron Smoothie both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Lotus switch, a linear switch, features a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Smoothie switch, also a linear switch, boasts an all-POM construction that delivers a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch. While the Lotus switch offers a delightful typing experience with its bouncy feel, the Smoothie switch stands out for its affordable price point without compromising on quality and its smooth, thocky sound. 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
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX Lotus and the Gateron Smoothie utilize different housing materials for both the top and bottom of the switch. The Lotus's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Smoothie's POM housing produces a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and relatively more muted. While both offer distinct sound profiles, the Lotus's nylon housing may provide a slightly duller and rounder sound compared to the Smoothie's POM housing.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Lotus's nylon and the Smoothie's POM materials offer similar characteristics of creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both materials are known for absorbing sound effectively, resulting in a more muted and satisfying typing experience. However, the specific sound produced by each housing material may have subtle differences that cater to individual preferences. Ultimately, users of either switch may enjoy the deeper and richer sound profile that these materials provide.
When it comes to the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, the bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the sound and feel of bottoming out the key. The top housing, on the other hand, influences the sound produced when releasing the key. While both the Lotus's nylon and the Smoothie's POM materials contribute to the overall sound profile of each switch, the slight differences in their properties may result in unique typing experiences. Whether you prefer a duller and rounder sound from the Lotus or a deeper and more muted sound from the Smoothie, both housing materials offer distinct qualities that enhance the typing experience.
Weight
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie's 40 grams, making the Smoothie the lighter option in terms of actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lotus requires 50 grams while the Smoothie's bottom out force is unknown. The actuation force of the Lotus provides a bit more resistance for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Smoothie's lighter actuation force may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their respective actuation and bottom out forces, giving users the opportunity to choose based on their personal preferences for typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Lotus linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The Lotus switch may offer a slightly quicker keystroke due to its shorter distance, which could be advantageous in gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the Smoothie switch provides a slightly deeper feel when pressed, which some users may prefer for a more solid typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth in key travel.
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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 offers a bright and resonant typing experience, with each keystroke producing a super bouncy sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie switch is known for its thocky sound signature, providing a deep and satisfying tone when pressed. The Lotus switch may appeal to those who enjoy a livelier and more resonant sound, while the Smoothie switch might cater to individuals who prefer a deeper and more subdued typing experience. Ultimately, the sound preference between these two switches will come down to personal taste and the overall setup of your keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the HMX Lotus switch offers a medium weight of 50g bottom out, providing a smooth and enjoyable typing sensation. The Gateron Smoothie switch, on the other hand, is lauded for its remarkable smoothness and light touch, giving users a buttery, creamy, and silky keystroke experience. Both switches aim to provide a premium typing feel, with the Lotus switch offering a bouncy and energetic feel, while the Smoothie switch focuses on smoothness and effortless typing. Choosing between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a lighter touch with smoothness or a medium-weight feel with a bouncy feedback.
In conclusion, the HMX Lotus switch and the Gateron Smoothie switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lotus switch provides a brighter and more bouncy sound with a medium-weight feel, while the Smoothie switch delivers a thocky sound signature and a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience. If you enjoy a vibrant and resonant sound with medium weight, the Lotus switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deep and satisfying sound with a smoother touch, the Smoothie switch could be more suitable. Keep in mind that individual preferences, typing style, and keyboard setup will ultimately determine the best switch for your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a bouncy and bright sound with a medium weight of 50g bottom out, the Lotus switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, the Gateron Smoothie switch is a great option. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference in sound and feel, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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