HMX Lotus vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the HMX Lotus, a linear switch, and the Durock T1, a tactile switch. The Lotus switch from HMX is renowned for its medium weight of 50g bottom out and bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling that enhances every keystroke. On the other hand, the T1 switch is known for its comfortable typing experience, featuring a medium bump when pressed and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. The Lotus switch is best suited for those who enjoy a smooth keystroke experience, while the T1 switch is ideal for typists who prefer a tactile feedback. 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
67g
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The HMX Lotus uses a combination of nylon for its top housing and bottom housing, while the Durock T1 uses polycarbonate for its top housing and nylon for its bottom housing. This difference in materials contributes to the distinct sound profiles of each switch. The Lotus's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the T1's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly influence the typing experience for users, depending on their preference for a more muted or vibrant sound.
Both the Lotus and the T1 utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile. This consistency in the bottom housing material allows for a more cohesive typing experience across both switches. However, the slight variations in the top housing material between the two switches can lead to noticeable differences in sound and feel. Despite this, both switches offer a comfortable and satisfying typing experience, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the keys.
In conclusion, the choice of housing material for switches like the HMX Lotus and the Durock T1 can greatly impact the sound and typing experience for users. While the Lotus's nylon top housing provides a softer and rounder sound, the T1's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches share a common nylon bottom housing, ensuring a consistent deep and full sound profile. Understanding the qualities of each housing material can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound and feel when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch vary significantly, with the Lotus being the lighter option and the T1 being the heavier option. The Lotus has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a light typing experience. In contrast, the T1's actuation force is unknown but has a bottom out force of 67 grams, offering a medium-heavy typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Lotus for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those desiring a more substantial push may prefer the T1 for a more pronounced typing experience. Both switches have different force requirements, allowing users to choose based on their preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Lotus linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Durock T1 tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Lotus has a shorter travel distance compared to the T1. A shorter travel distance is often favored by gamers for its faster response times, while a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying key press for some users. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying travel distances, so it ultimately depends on personal preference which one would be the preferred choice.
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 Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 Lotus linear switch from HMX provides a bright and resonant tone that can add a lively feel to your typing experience. On the other hand, the T1 tactile switch offers a more low-pitched sound that is reminiscent of rain falling on a window, creating a soothing ambiance. Depending on your preference, the Lotus may be more suitable for users who enjoy a more vibrant sound profile, while the T1 may appeal to those who prefer a mellower tone.
In terms of feel, the Lotus switch is known for providing a super bouncy sensation with a medium weight of 50g bottom out, enhancing the tactile feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the T1 tactile switch offers a stepped and accented feel, providing a more subtle tactile bump that is not overwhelming but still noticeable. Additionally, the T1 switch is described as polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience. Depending on your typing style, the Lotus may be more suitable for users who prefer a bouncy and responsive switch, while the T1 may be ideal for those who enjoy a more refined and polished feel.
Overall, both the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Lotus provides a bright and resonant sound with a super bouncy feel, the T1 offers a low-pitched sound with a comfortable and accented tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, both switches offer high-quality performance, and users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, you should consider your preference for key weight and sound profile. If you prefer a light key weight and a bright, resonant sound, the Lotus switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy key weight and a comfortable, low-pitched sound with a neutral feel, the T1 switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences to ensure the best typing experience.
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