HMX Lotus vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, both the HMX Lotus and the HMX Twilight offer distinct experiences for typists and gamers alike, despite being linear switches. The Lotus switch, with its medium weight of 50g bottom-out force and bright, resonant sound profile, delivers a delightful, bouncy feel that enhances every keystroke, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy tactile feedback and audible confirmation. On the other hand, the Twilight switch stands out with its extended 3.85mm travel distance, resulting in a slightly quieter operation while still emphasizing the satisfying clacky characteristics that HMX switches are known for. While the Lotus is perfect for users seeking a more vibrant sound and feel, the Twilight may appeal to those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience without sacrificing performance. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.85 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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Lotus and HMX Twilight share identical housing materials, utilizing nylon for both the top and bottom components. This uniformity in material choice allows both switches to produce a consistent typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, as a classic material for switch housings, contributes to this auditory quality due to its softer plastic properties, which absorb sound more effectively compared to harder plastics. Consequently, the typing experience across both models remains remarkably similar — effectively creating a duller and rounder sound, appealing to those who favor a more subdued acoustic environment while typing.
In addition to their shared top housing characteristics, both the Lotus and Twilight demonstrate the same sound-absorbing qualities in their bottom housings. As nylon plays a significant role in reducing harshness and distortion in the sound emitted when keys are pressed, users can expect a consistent tactile feedback, regardless of the model. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, which means that users will likely perceive a similarly pleasant typing experience across both models. This consistency assures that the design and construction choices underpinning both switches yield an equivalent performance, making them appealing options for typists and gamers alike.
While the mechanical differences are minimal due to the use of the same nylon material throughout, the separation of top and bottom housings means that users may experience variances in sound depending on which model they choose. The top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key, which is particularly significant for those who appreciate the nuances of auditory feedback during typing. However, since both models utilize nylon for their housings, any subtle distinctions in sound will primarily arise from personal typing styles and techniques rather than from the materials themselves. This shared foundation of nylon ensures that both the HMX Lotus and HMX Twilight, while potentially offering minor experiential differences, ultimately deliver a coherent and harmonious typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lotus and HMX Twilight linear switches, we see some similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lotus requires an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Twilight has a slightly lighter actuation force of 42 grams, making the Twilight the lighter option for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 50 grams, which means that when fully pressed, both switches will provide the same level of resistance. This consistent bottom out force ensures that users will experience a similar level of feedback when the switch is bottomed out, regardless of the actuation differences. In summary, if you're looking for a lighter typing experience, the Twilight is the better choice due to its lower actuation force, while both switches deliver the same solid feel at the bottom.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus and HMX Twilight linear switches, we find that the Lotus features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Twilight extends to 3.85 mm. This means that the Lotus is the shorter option, providing a quicker response for those who prefer more immediate feedback during their key presses. On the other hand, the Twilight, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes, as it offers a more substantial feeling with every press. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you favor the fast actuation of the Lotus or the more deliberate experience of the Twilight.
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 Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight for $3.29.
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 is known for its bright, resonant character, offering a lively auditory feedback that can enhance the typing experience. This lively sound profile makes each keystroke feel more impactful, contributing to an engaging typing atmosphere. Conversely, the HMX Twilight linear switch has a slightly quieter delivery, owing to its extended 3.85mm travel distance. While it maintains the signature clacky characteristics typical of HMX switches, its more subdued sound can be preferable for those seeking a quieter workspace without sacrificing the tactile enjoyment of typing.
When it comes to feel, the Lotus switch is recognized for its super bouncy sensation, making each keystroke feel incredibly responsive and delightfully satisfying. This springiness can aid in typing speed and general comfort during extended use. The Twilight switch, while also being a linear switch, does not specifically describe such a pronounced bounciness, but its extended travel distance may provide a unique typing experience that some users may find more engaging. Both switches, being linear, will provide a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke without the tactile bumps found in other switch types.
Overall, if you're evaluating the differences between the HMX Lotus and Twilight switches, you'll find that the Lotus delivers a more vibrant sound and a pronounced bounciness, making it ideal for those who enjoy an expressive typing experience. The Twilight offers a quieter alternative with its extended travel that still embraces the familiar clacky nature of HMX switches. Ultimately, both switches will provide smooth linear action, but personal preference regarding sound and feel will guide your choice.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the HMX Lotus and HMX Twilight linear switches, consider your priorities in both feel and sound. If you appreciate a super bouncy tactile experience and an engaging, bright sound with a delightful resonance for each keystroke, the HMX Lotus may be your ideal choice. Its lighter bottom-out force adds to the overall enjoyable typing experience, making it suitable for those who love a more dynamic feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly quieter operation coupled with an extended travel distance for a softer actuation feel, the HMX Twilight switch will be more to your liking. The Twilight maintains a more subdued auditory profile while still providing the signature characteristics of HMX switches, making it a solid option for quieter environments or extended typing sessions. In essence, your choice should align with whether you favor lively, resonant feedback or a quieter, smooth experience with an extended travel.
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