HMX Lotus vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus and the SP-Star Yanyu stand out as popular linear options. The HMX Lotus offers a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Yanyu switches are ideal for those seeking a delicate typing experience or typing for long periods, with a material blend that produces a crisp sound profile. While the Lotus boasts a bouncy feel, the Yanyu is known for its subtlety and polished sound. 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
43g
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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the SP-Star Yanyu both use nylon in their construction, offering a unique typing experience. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. However, the Yanyu takes a different approach with a blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its housing, resulting in a slightly brighter sound profile that is still very pleasant. While both switches use nylon in their construction, the blend of materials in the Yanyu sets it apart from the classic nylon housing of the Lotus.
Despite both switches utilizing nylon materials for their housings, they differ in the specific blends and combinations used. The Lotus features a consistent nylon construction for both the top and bottom housings, offering a uniform typing experience with a rounder and duller sound profile. In contrast, the Yanyu incorporates a unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a sound profile that is described as not particularly sharp but slightly brighter. This variation in housing materials between the two switches contributes to their distinct typing sensations and sound characteristics.
The impact of the housing materials on the typing experience is divided between the top and bottom housings of the switches. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. While both the Lotus and Yanyu share the use of nylon materials in their housings, the distinct blends and combinations of materials create differences in their sound profiles and typing experiences. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound characteristics and typing feel.
Weight
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a relatively light bottom out force, with the Lotus at 50 grams and the Yanyu at 43 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Lotus may make it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Yanyu's slightly lighter bottom out force may appeal to those who prefer a slightly softer landing when pressing down on the keys. Overall, the Lotus is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Yanyu is lighter in terms of bottom out force. Users looking for a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Lotus, while those seeking a softer touch may opt for the Yanyu.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch have slightly different travel distances, with the Lotus measuring at 3.5 mm and the Yanyu at 4 mm. The Lotus offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Yanyu, which may appeal to those looking for a more responsive typing experience, such as gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Yanyu provides a slightly longer travel distance, which may suit individuals who prefer a more traditional and substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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 is known for its bright and resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a more delicate typing experience with a crisp sound profile. The Lotus switch has a medium weight of 50g bottom out, while the Yanyu switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various typing preferences. When it comes to feel, the Lotus switch does not have specific descriptors provided, whereas the Yanyu switch is described as mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. This means that the Yanyu switch offers a gentle typing experience with light actuation force, reduced finger fatigue, and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, while the HMX Lotus and SP-Star Yanyu linear switches may differ in sound and feel, they both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Lotus switch excels in providing a bright and resonant sound with a bouncy feel, making every keystroke delightful. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch offers a delicate typing experience with a crisp sound profile, along with gentle resistance and smooth key travel. Ultimately, whether you prefer a bouncy feel with a bright sound or a gentle typing experience with reduced finger fatigue, both switches provide quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you value a bouncy and bright typing experience with a 50g bottom out force, the Lotus switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more delicate typing experience with a lower bottom out force of 43g and a crisp sound profile, the Yanyu switch would be the ideal option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preference for typing feel and sound. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and needs to optimize your overall typing experience.
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