HMX Lotus vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch stand out as popular options. The Lotus switch, with its medium weight of 50g and bright, resonant sound, offers a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke, making typing a delightful experience. On the other hand, the U4 switch provides a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump while also offering a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. The U4 switch's sound profile is whisper quiet, adding a touch of subtlety to its performance. While the Lotus switch may appeal to those who enjoy a more traditional linear feel, the U4 switch could be a great choice for those seeking a tactile and quiet 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the Gazzew U4 share some similarities in terms of delivering a deep and full sound profile. Both the Lotus's nylon housing and the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend housing are known for their softness, which allows them to absorb more sound and create a duller, rounder sound. This results in a more satisfying typing experience for users who prefer a deeper sound profile from their switches.
However, there are also some differences between the two housing materials. The Lotus's nylon housing is a classic switch material that is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend housing, also known as "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its unique composition. This indicates that while both housing materials aim to provide a similar sound experience, the specific characteristics of each material may result in slightly different sound profiles when typing on the switches.
When it comes to the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, it's important to consider how the qualities of the top and bottom housings can influence the sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing material will have more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing material will have more impact on the sound when releasing a key. This difference in impact can result in a more nuanced typing experience, as users may notice variations in sound and feel depending on which part of the housing material is being interacted with during typing.
Weight
The HMX Lotus linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a light and easy keystroke activation. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lotus requires 50 grams, while the U4 requires 62 grams, making the U4 the heavier option for a more substantial typing experience. The lighter actuation force of both switches allows for comfortable typing over long periods, which is ideal for work or gaming sessions. Those who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the U4 switch with its heavier bottom out force, while the Lotus switch offers a slightly softer bottom out experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the U4 being slightly longer than the Lotus. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Lotus, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the slightly longer travel distance of the U4. Overall, both switches offer a modern and responsive typing experience, with the main difference being the slight variation in travel distance.
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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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 offers a bright and resonant typing experience, providing a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is known for its muted and low-pitched sound profile, making it whisper quiet when typing. Depending on your preference, the Lotus will give you a more vibrant and lively typing sound, while the U4 will offer a subtle and gentle typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Lotus switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, but with a medium weight of 50g bottom out, it is likely to provide a smooth and consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is described as having a sharp tactile bump, providing a strong and crisp feedback intensity with each keypress. If you prefer a more pronounced tactile bump, the U4 switch would be the better choice for you.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a bright and resonant sound profile, as well as a medium weight for a bouncy typing feel, the HMX Lotus linear switch would be an excellent option for you. However, if you prefer a quieter and more subtle sound profile with a sharp and distinct tactile bump, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch would be the ideal choice. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that you will get a satisfying typing experience regardless of which one you choose.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a light bottom out force of 50 grams and enjoy a bright, resonant sound with a bouncy feeling, then the Lotus switches may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 62 grams and appreciate a sharp tactile bump with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, then the U4 switches might be more to your liking. Additionally, if you prefer a quieter, low-pitched sound, the U4 switches excel in providing a muted and low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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