HMX Lotus vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus and HMX Sunset Gleam are two linear options that offer distinct yet enjoyable typing experiences. The Lotus switch is celebrated for its medium weight of 50g bottom out, delivering a lively and resilient feel with each keystroke, complemented by a bright and resonant sound that adds a delightful auditory element to your typing. On the other hand, the Sunset Gleam, affectionately dubbed the Duck Duck switch, showcases a unique combination of materials that results in a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack, thanks to HMX’s renowned factory lubrication. Both switches cater to different preferences: the Lotus is ideal for users seeking a bouncy and engaging tactile response, while the Sunset Gleam provides a smoother, yet still pronounced, 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
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Lotus and HMX Sunset Gleam exhibit distinct characteristics in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their auditory profiles. The Lotus employs a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound. This is attributed to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder plastics. Consequently, when typing on the Lotus, users experience a sound that is duller and rounder, allowing for a more subdued auditory experience. Conversely, the Sunset Gleam's use of polycarbonate for its top housing leads to a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Polycarbonate’s rigidity results in a clearer and more resonant sound profile, making the typing experience more pronounced and vibrant, especially when RGB lighting is involved, thanks to the translucency of the material.
Though the top housings differ in their sound qualities, the bottom housings for both models share the same material: nylon. As both the Lotus and Sunset Gleam employ nylon for their bottom housings, they provide a consistent auditory experience at the bottom of the keypress. The nylon's inherent properties contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, which enhances the perception of stability and weight during typing. Even if the top housings yield different sound characteristics, the nylon bottom ensures that both switches have a solid foundation, leading to a rounded bottom-out sound and feel. This creates a certain sameness in tactile feedback between the two models while allowing the user to choose a distinct auditory character from the top housing.
In summary, while the HMX Lotus and HMX Sunset Gleam differ notably in their top housing materials—nylon versus polycarbonate—their commonality in bottom housing material fosters a cohesive typing experience. Users can expect a deeper, fuller auditory experience from both switches due to the nylon bottom, while the distinction in top materials allows for variation in sound upon key release. Thus, selecting between the two ultimately boils down to a personal preference for sound profile—darker and subdued versus crisper and brighter—while maintaining consistency in overall tactile response due to the nylon bottom.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lotus linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, both options present themselves as lightweight choices suitable for extended use, though there are slight differences in their specifications. The Lotus features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Sunset Gleam is slightly lighter, with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that the Sunset Gleam requires less force to trigger a keystroke, making it a better option for users who prioritize an easier typing experience. Conversely, the Lotus, while still light, has a marginally higher actuation and bottom out force, which could appeal to those seeking a tad more resistance for a more substantial feel during typing or gaming. Overall, both switches are designed for comfort and extended use, but the Sunset Gleam is the lighter option, while the Lotus is just a bit heavier.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Lotus linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch feature a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making their actuation distances identical. This similarity means that users will experience the same keystroke feel and feedback when pressing down on either switch. Consequently, those who prefer consistent travel mechanics will find both switches equally satisfying to use. In summary, with both switches having the same travel distance, the overall experience will be similar, ensuring that users enjoy uniform performance regardless of their choice between the Lotus and Sunset Gleam.
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 HMX Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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 tone that carries a lively presence with each keystroke, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy an audible feedback while typing. The HMX Sunset Gleam, or Duck Duck switch, offers a subtle top-out sound complemented by a satisfying clack, which provides a more muted yet gratifying acoustic experience. Both sounds are affected by various factors, including the keyboard build and keycap materials, but the inherent character of each switch sets them apart.
When it comes to feel, the Lotus features a medium weight of 50g at bottom-out, contributing to a super bouncy sensation that enhances the typing experience, making each keystroke feel delightful. The Sunset Gleam also boasts a well-crafted feel, thanks to excellent factory lube and a design that aims for a satisfying response. While the exact weight of the Sunset Gleam might be unknown, its smooth action and balanced response suggest it appeals to those who favor a comfortable typing journey, similar to that of the Lotus.
Overall, while both the HMX Lotus and Sunset Gleam switches have their unique qualities, they cater to users who appreciate the characteristics of linear switches. The Lotus delivers an exciting auditory experience paired with a bouncy feel, while the Sunset Gleam offers a more subdued sound with its own satisfying tactile feedback. Both switches ensure that you'll enjoy a high-quality typing experience, allowing enthusiasts to select based on personal preference in sound and feel without compromising on performance.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Lotus and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a light touch and a delightfully bouncy feel with a bright, resonant sound that enhances your typing experience, then the HMX Lotus, with its 50-gram bottom-out force, may be the better option for you. This makes it particularly suitable for tasks that involve rapid keystrokes, such as gaming or typing for extended periods, where the feedback can add to your enjoyment. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a more subtle top-out and a well-rounded clack without compromising on smoothness, the HMX Sunset Gleam, with its slightly lower 48-gram force, would be your go-to choice. Known for its excellent factory lube, it provides a satisfying feel that many typists find appealing. Ultimately, whether you opt for the uplifting bounce of the Lotus or the smooth satisfaction of the Sunset Gleam, both switches are designed to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience, allowing you to choose based on what feels best for you.
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