HMX Lotus vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Lotus linear switch to the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, there are key differences that cater to different preferences. The Lotus switch offers a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy typing experience that enthusiasts love. On the other hand, the Duck switch offers a more subtle tactile typing experience with a gentle tactility and a clean, crispy sound profile. While the Lotus switch is ideal for those seeking a satisfying bouncy feeling with each keystroke, the Duck switch is perfect for users looking for a smoother, more refined 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Standard
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the SP-Star Duck, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles based on the type of plastic used. The Lotus, with its nylon top and bottom housing, provides a deeper and fuller sound with a duller and rounder tone. On the other hand, the Duck, featuring polycarbonate top and bottom housing, offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Both switches have distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and typing experience.
Despite their differences, the nylon and polycarbonate housings of the Lotus and Duck, respectively, both showcase the importance of material choice in switch design. The softer nature of nylon in the Lotus creates a more absorbent sound, whereas the stiffer polycarbonate of the Duck produces a more resonant and clear sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Duck's housing allows for a visual element, especially when paired with RGB lighting. While the characteristics of each housing material differ, they both contribute to enhancing the overall typing experience in their own way.
In terms of functionality, the split between top and bottom housing allows for a dual impact on the sound and feel of the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Lotus contributes more to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the nylon top housing has a greater influence on the release sound. Similarly, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Duck affects the bottom-out sound, while the polycarbonate top housing plays a role in the sound upon key release. This split in housing materials maximizes the potential for sound customization and offers a unique typing experience for users of both switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch differ in their weight requirements. The Lotus has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In comparison, the Duck has a higher bottom out force of 58 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. While the actuation force of the Duck is not specified, it can be assumed that it falls in the medium range due to its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Lotus offering a lighter typing experience and the Duck providing a more substantial feel for those who prefer a heavier force.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the SP-Star Duck tactile switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lotus offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for faster key presses. On the other hand, the Duck's longer travel distance provides a more satisfying depth when pressing down on the keys, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Both switches have their own advantages based on individual preferences, with the Lotus being slightly shorter and the Duck being slightly longer in terms of travel distance. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prioritize speed or depth in your 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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 Lotus switch from HMX is known for its bright and resonant sound, providing a super bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Duck switch offers a clean and crispy sound profile, perfect for those seeking a more subtle tactile typing feel. Both switches offer a different auditory experience, with the Lotus being more vibrant and the Duck being more neutral.
When it comes to feel, the Lotus switch is known for its medium weight of 50g bottom out, providing a delightfully bouncy feeling with each key press. The Duck switch, on the other hand, offers a mild and buttery typing experience, with a polished finish for smooth and refined key travel. These tactile qualities of the switches cater to different preferences, with the Lotus offering a more pronounced tactile feel and the Duck providing a gentler typing sensation.
In conclusion, the HMX Lotus linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer unique sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. The Lotus switch provides a lively and bouncy typing experience with a bright and resonant sound, while the Duck switch offers a more subtle and gentle tactile feel with a clean and crispy sound profile. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches provide excellent options for a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light touch and a bouncy typing experience with a bright, resonant sound, the Lotus switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a moderate actuation force with a more subtle tactile typing experience and a clean, crispy sound profile, the Duck switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences for an optimal typing experience.
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