HMX Lotus vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two prominent options to consider are the HMX Lotus and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2). The Lotus, a linear switch, boasts a medium weight of 50g at bottom out, delivering a bouncy, satisfying feel alongside a bright, resonant sound that makes every keystroke enjoyable. It’s ideal for gamers who prioritize smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes and a lively auditory feedback. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) features a hall effect mechanism that offers a remarkably balanced typing experience, characterized by a neutral sound signature that produces the coveted "thock" favored by many enthusiasts. Designed for those who seek a refined tactile sensation, its smooth keystroke and dustproof stem minimize wobble and enhance performance, catering to both typists and gamers alike. While each switch presents distinct advantages—be it the Lotus's vibrant feedback or the Sticky Rice V2's sophisticated feel—choosing the right one ultimately depends on personal preference. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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 the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) showcase distinct approaches to switch housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles and overall performance. The Lotus employs a nylon top housing, which is known for its softer plastic composition. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile as the nylon effectively absorbs more sound, contributing to a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and more vibrant sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance, making it particularly advantageous for users who appreciate a crispy typing experience. Thus, users looking for a more pronounced auditory feedback will find the Sticky Rice (V2)’s polycarbonate housing more appealing, whereas those who prioritize a warmer sound may prefer the Lotus.
Interestingly, both switches share the same material—nylon—for their bottom housing. This similarity contributes to certain aspects of their overall typing experience, particularly regarding sound when bottoming out. The nylon used in the bottom housing of both switches helps in minimizing harshness and provides a deeper, rounder sound profile that users might find comforting. Therefore, while the top housing materials differ and lead to distinct auditory experiences, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches maintain a softer bottom-out sound, leading to a more muted and pleasant experience when keys are pressed.
Ultimately, the combination of materials leads to unique experiences that can cater to varying preferences among users. With the HMX Lotus, the softness of nylon in both the top and bottom housings emphasizes a consistently warm and subdued sound profile. Conversely, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) presents a more dynamic typing experience with its stiffer polycarbonate top. However, with their shared nylon bottoms, both switches provide a solid foundation—ensuring that while the auditory profiles differ, users can still expect a satisfying consistency in feel and sound when they engage with the switch. This balance of material advantages allows for tailored experiences that meet a range of aesthetic and auditory desires in the mechanical keyboard space.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, both switches exhibit light characteristics in terms of force, making them suitable for prolonged use during typing or gaming sessions. The Lotus switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Sticky Rice (V2) features a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams, with a matching bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while the actuation force differs slightly—favoring the Sticky Rice for a lighter touch—they both share the same bottom out force, resulting in a similar keystroke feel when fully pressed. Therefore, for users who prefer a lighter switch for extended periods or quick gaming reaction times, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) may be the better choice, whereas those who appreciate a more substantial push experience will find the HMX Lotus to their liking.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, indicating that both switches provide an identical experience in terms of the distance a key travels when pressed down. As they share the same travel distance, users can expect similar feedback and actuation levels when using either switch. This equivalency can enhance performance consistency across different keyboards equipped with these switches, ensuring that the tactile experience remains uniform.
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 Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sticky Rice (V2) for $6.79.
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 linear switch produces a bright, resonant sound that can be quite fulfilling for users who enjoy an auditory response when typing. This lively sound can add an engaging aspect to the typing experience, complementing the tactile feedback of each keystroke. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offers a more neutral sound signature, aiming for that coveted "thock" that many enthusiasts appreciate. While the sound of the Sticky Rice is less pronounced than the Lotus, it provides a balanced auditory experience that allows for focused typing without excessive noise. The acoustic qualities of both switches can be affected by the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps, so users may find they can achieve desired results with either switch depending on their setup.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lotus switch is characterized by its medium weight of 50g at bottom out, providing a responsive and bouncy sensation that enhances the enjoyment of typing as each keystroke feels lively and satisfying. This bounce can make for an engaging typing experience, appealing to users who appreciate a dynamic feel under their fingers. Conversely, the Sticky Rice (V2) is known for its super smooth keystroke, attributed to a dustproof stem that minimizes wobble and enhances overall performance. This results in a refined tactile sensation that prioritizes smoothness and consistency, making it an attractive option for those seeking a more controlled and pleasant feel during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the HMX Lotus and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences. The Lotus provides a bouncy feeling and an engaging sound profile, ideal for users looking for liveliness in their keystrokes. In contrast, the Sticky Rice delivers a refined and smooth typing experience combined with a neutral sound signature, perfect for those who appreciate a well-balanced experience. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches can cater to different types of users, ensuring that there is a compelling choice for every mechanical keyboard enthusiast.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch should hinge on your preferences for sound, feel, and the kind of typing experience you’re seeking. If you enjoy a bouncy keystroke and a bright, resonant sound that adds character to your typing, then the Lotus switch would be an excellent choice. Its lighter weight and satisfying feedback can enhance your overall enjoyment, particularly during extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, if you are looking for a balanced, smooth experience with a more neutral sound signature and the refined “thock” that many enthusiasts cherish, the Sticky Rice (V2) is likely to suit you better. Especially favoring those who appreciate a minimized wobble and a dustproof design, this switch excels in providing a responsive feel without sacrificing comfort. Ultimately, the decision should reflect whether you prioritize a vibrant auditory experience with the Lotus or a subtly refined touch with the Sticky Rice (V2).
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