HMX Lotus vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus, a linear switch, and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), also a linear switch, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Lotus switches from HMX provide a bouncy feeling with a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, making each keystroke a delight. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switches from Sarokeys offer clacky and resonant notes, paired with a silky smooth feel thanks to its impeccable factory lube job. While the Lotus switch focuses on a bouncy and vibrant typing experience, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch aims for a clacky and smoother sensation. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
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
Y3
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lotus and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), one can see that both switches use nylon for their top housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its soft nature that absorbs sound effectively. This similarity suggests that typing on both switches will result in a similar experience in terms of sound quality. However, the Strawberry Wine (V2) stands out with its POM bottom housing, which creates a unique, more muted sound profile that is on the deeper side. In contrast, the Lotus utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, emphasizing a duller and rounder sound.
While the Lotus and Strawberry Wine (V2) share nylon as their top housing material, their bottom housings differ significantly. The Lotus retains nylon for its bottom housing as well, providing a consistent deep and full sound profile throughout the switch. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) uses nylon for its bottom housing, allowing for a similar sound experience as the Lotus but with a potentially different feel due to the material's impact on the bottom-out sound. This variation in bottom housing material may result in a slightly different typing experience between the two switches, despite their similarities in top housing material.
In terms of performance, the choice of housing material in a switch plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of typing on a keyboard. Both the HMX Lotus and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) showcase the impact of using different materials for their housing components. While the Lotus offers a consistent typing experience with nylon used for both top and bottom housings, the Strawberry Wine (V2) introduces a unique sound profile with its POM top housing. The split between housing materials in the Strawberry Wine (V2) allows for a more nuanced sound experience, emphasizing the importance of both top and bottom housing in creating a well-rounded typing experience.
Weight
The HMX Lotus linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making them equal in terms of weight. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of typing and gaming experiences when using either switch. However, the lighter weight of these switches can be beneficial for users who prefer extended typing or gaming sessions, as it allows for less fatigue on the fingers. On the other hand, some users may prefer a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing feel, in which case they may opt for a switch with a higher actuation force. Overall, while both switches offer a light touch, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference in typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Lotus linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their quicker response times. However, the Lotus offers a slightly deeper press compared to the Strawberry Wine. Gamers who prefer a more responsive feel may opt for the Lotus, while those who enjoy a slightly more substantial keypress may lean towards the Strawberry Wine. Overall, both switches provide relatively similar results in terms of travel distance, making them suitable options for different preferences in typing or gaming experiences.
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 Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Wine (V2) for $4.35.
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 best known for its bright and resonant characteristics, providing a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch is known for its clacky and resonant notes, offering a sharp and snappy sound profile that can be described as crisp and bright. Both switches create immersive auditory experiences, although the Lotus may have a slightly higher pitched sound compared to the Strawberry Wine (V2).
In terms of feel, the HMX Lotus linear switch does not have a specific descriptor provided. In contrast, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch is described as offering a silky typing experience, thanks to an impeccable factory lube job that provides a smooth and effortless keystroke. This suggests that the Strawberry Wine (V2) may offer a smoother and more seamless typing experience compared to the Lotus.
Taking all the available information into account, the HMX Lotus and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switches have their unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. While the Lotus offers a bouncy feeling with a bright and resonant sound, the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a clacky and resonant sound with a silky smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as both switches offer exceptional qualities that will enhance the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a super bouncy feeling and a bright, resonant sound, the Lotus switches with their 50g bottom out force may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clacky and resonant sound profile along with an impeccably smooth typing experience due to the factory lube job, then the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience to ensure you have a keyboard switch that best fits your needs.
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