HMX Lotus vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the HMX Lotus and the HMX Swift, both of which fall into the category of linear switches yet deliver distinct typing experiences. The Lotus, with its medium weight of 50g at bottom out, offers a clacky, bouncy feeling accompanied by a bright, resonant sound that transforms each keystroke into a delightful action, perfect for those who appreciate a more dynamic auditory feedback. In contrast, the Swift boasts a lighter actuation force of just 42g, yielding an easy-to-press experience highlighted by its deeper sound profile and silky smooth keypress. While the Lotus may appeal to users seeking a more vibrant and bouncy feel, the Swift’s creamy touch and quieter acoustics are ideal for those who prefer a subtle yet inviting tactile response. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.90 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
Nylon
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 extended spring
Housing materials
The HMX Lotus and the HMX Swift demonstrate a notable consistency in their choice of housing materials, utilizing nylon for both the top and bottom housings of their switches. This similarity suggests that users can expect a comparable typing experience from both switches. The use of nylon as a housing material is intentional, as it is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This characteristic is particularly valuable in creating an auditory experience that is more enjoyable and immersive, as nylon helps to absorb sound waves rather than allowing them to rebound unaltered, which would typically result in a sharper and more pronounced sound.
Furthermore, since both the Lotus and the Swift employ identical nylon top housings, users will find that the sound produced on key release will have a similar tonal quality across both models. The inherent properties of nylon ensure that the sound profile remains consistent, with both switches exhibiting a duller and rounder sound when the keys are let go. This shared material quality grants users the advantage of predictability in the acoustics of both switches, enhancing their overall keyboard experience regardless of the model chosen.
The bottom housings of both the Lotus and the Swift also employ nylon, which adds to the consistency of feel and sound produced when key presses bottom out. Since both switches rely on the same softer and sound-absorbing material, the tactile feel and audio feedback will align closely, with nylon providing enough softness to ensure a gentle impact during bottoming out. Thus, across both switches, users can expect a harmonized experience where the interplay of the top and bottom housings contributes to an overall similar acoustic and tactile performance. This coherence presents a compelling argument for either option, giving users the flexibility to choose based on other features and preferences without sacrificing the quality and sound they desire.
Weight
The HMX Lotus and HMX Swift linear switches offer similar bottom out forces, both registering at 50 grams, indicating that users will experience the same resistance when pressing the keys all the way down. However, the actuation forces of these switches differ slightly; the Lotus requires 45 grams to register a keystroke, while the Swift is even lighter at 42 grams. As a result, the Swift provides a slightly easier typing experience, making it more suitable for users who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, with its heavier actuation force, the Lotus might appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial push feel, adding a tactile element to their keyboard experience. Overall, while both switches are light and comfortable for prolonged use, the Swift is the lighter option, catering to users who favor a gentler keypress.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus and HMX Swift linear switches, it is clear that they differ in depth. The Lotus has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Swift extends to 3.9 mm, which is considerable for users who appreciate a deeper keystroke. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience with quick actuation, the HMX Lotus would be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance. Conversely, for those who favor a more profound and satisfying key press, the HMX Swift offers a longer travel distance that may feel more substantial. Both options cater to different preferences, highlighting the trade-off between speed and comfort 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 HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift 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
The HMX Lotus linear switch produces a bright, resonant sound that is characterized by a clacky quality. This sharp and snappy acoustic feedback gives the typing experience a lively and engaging auditory element. In contrast, the HMX Swift linear switch stands out with a deeper sound profile, attributed to its full nylon housing. This results in a high-pitched tone that appeals to those who prefer a crisp sound without the richer bass of some other switches. The choice of board and keycaps can also influence these acoustic characteristics, but the inherent qualities of each switch will guide your expectations.
When it comes to feel, the Lotus switch offers a distinctly bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that enhances the overall typing experience. It features a medium weight of 50g at bottom out, which combined with its bouncy nature, results in a responsive and lively typing feel. Furthermore, it boasts a silkiness and a feathery touch, promoting comfort during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Swift switch excels in its effortless actuation with a lighter 42g force and a smooth, creamy texture. The easy-to-press nature of the Swift, coupled with its bouncy feedback, creates a gentle typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue, making it suitable for extended use.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lotus and Swift linear switches provide enjoyable auditory and tactile experiences, but with distinct qualities. The Lotus leans towards brighter sounds and a more pronounced bouncy feel, ideal for those who enjoy a lively, clicky experience. Meanwhile, the Swift caters to individuals favoring a deeper sound with a silky and effortless touch during typing. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, with each switch offering a uniquely satisfying experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Lotus and HMX Swift linear switches, consider your typing preferences and the experiences you want to achieve. If you enjoy a bouncy, lively feel with a bright, clacky sound that energizes your keystrokes, the HMX Lotus will likely be the more appealing option for you. Its medium weight of 50 grams allows for a delightful depth in each press, perfect for those lighthearted typing sessions or exhilarating gaming marathons. On the other hand, if you're looking for a smoother, refined experience with a deeper sound profile, the HMX Swift switch is the ideal choice. With its silky feel and gentle 42g actuation force, it caters well to extended typing without causing fatigue, while delivering a high-pitched sound for those who prefer that character in their keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you lean more towards a vibrant tactile feedback or a smoother, softer touch, as both switches offer unique advantages suited to different preferences and activities in your typing journey.
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