Outemu Lotus vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When exploring the landscape of mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Lotus and the HMX Sunset Gleam emerge as prominent examples of linear switches, each catering to different user preferences and tactile experiences. The Outemu Lotus is designed to offer a smooth keystroke, ideal for typists and gamers looking for a consistent feel without any tactile bumps. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, known for its blend of high-quality materials, not only provides a soft top-out but also delivers a satisfying audible clack, owing to its excellent factory lube, making it a delightful choice for those who appreciate both sound and feel in their typing. While both switches offer a linear experience, the Sunset Gleam stands out with its nuanced acoustic feedback, while the Lotus focuses on a pure, uninterrupted keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Lotus Linear

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Outemu Lotus and HMX Sunset Gleam switches utilize distinct materials for their top housings, which significantly influences their acoustic profiles. The Lotus features a nylon top housing, which is renowned for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer properties. This material absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a sound that is generally more muted and round. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam's top housing is made from polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. As polycarbonate is more resonant, it creates a higher-pitched sound when compared to the deeper tones produced by nylon. This fundamental difference highlights how the choice of top housing material can drastically alter the auditory experience when typing on these switches.

When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Outemu Lotus and HMX Sunset Gleam utilize nylon, which provides a consistent acoustic characteristic. This similarity means that despite the differences in their top housing materials, users will experience a more rounded and softer sound profile when bottoming out on both switches. Nylon's ability to absorb sound helps maintain a cohesive auditory experience, where the bottom-out sound retains a certain depth regardless of the top housing material. As such, the relationship between the bottom housing’s nylon material and the overall acoustic quality can provide users with a familiar and satisfying sound feedback across both switch types.

Despite the contrasting materials used in their top housings, the combination of nylon in the bottom housing allows both the Outemu Lotus and HMX Sunset Gleam switches to deliver a unique typing experience. The differing properties of nylon and polycarbonate in the top sections mean that when a user releases a key, they will encounter the sharper resonance of polycarbonate with the Sunset Gleam, while the Lotus will offer a more muted tone. Ultimately, whether a user prefers the softer sound profile of nylon or the brighter characteristics of polycarbonate, the consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a satisfying key feel and sound experience for both switches.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, we see notable differences in their actuation forces, although both offer a light typing experience. The Lotus switch has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams compared to the 42 grams required by the Sunset Gleam, making the Lotus more suitable for users seeking a reduced effort for typing, ideal for prolonged use during work or gaming sessions. In terms of bottom out force, the Lotus again proves slightly heavier at 50 grams, while the Sunset Gleam has a marginally lighter bottom out force of 48 grams. This suggests that while both switches are considered light overall, the Lotus requires less force to initiate a keystroke, making it feel lighter, whereas the Sunset Gleam offers a slightly more substantial bottoming out experience. Those who prefer a softer typing feel might gravitate towards the Lotus due to its lower actuation requirement, whereas users seeking a bit more resistance may find the Sunset Gleam's characteristics more appealing.

Travel distance

The Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Lotus the shorter option of the two by 0.2 mm, meaning that users who prioritize responsiveness may find the Lotus switch more appealing for gaming purposes. On the other hand, the Sunset Gleam’s longer travel distance might cater to those who enjoy a more tactile and deeper key press experience. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on user preference: gamers may prefer the expedited key press of the Lotus, whereas others might appreciate the more substantial feeling provided by the Sunset Gleam.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Outemu Lotus linear switch doesn’t have a specific sound profile that sets it apart; it generally offers a standard linear experience without notable acoustic character. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, also known as the Duck Duck switch, is designed to provide a satisfying auditory experience. It features a subtle top-out followed by a satisfying clack, a sound that many users may find more rewarding. However, it's essential to remember that sound can be influenced by other factors, including the choice of keyboard and keycaps, which means that while the Sunset Gleam aims for a pleasing auditory signature, the actual performance can vary.

When it comes to feel, the Outemu Lotus linear switch does not have an established reputation, so it's difficult to draw direct comparisons in this regard. On the other hand, the Sunset Gleam switch prides itself on a well-rounded tactile feedback due to its excellent construction and factory lubrication. This combination often results in a smooth keystroke with a hint of resistance at the top-out, which enhances the typing experience. While the Lotus may offer a traditional linear feel, the Sunset Gleam promises a more refined physical experience, especially for those who appreciate a well-lubed switch.

In summary, while both the Outemu Lotus and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches fall under the linear category, they cater to different preferences for sound and feel. The Sunset Gleam appears to offer a more engaging auditory experience and enhanced tactile feedback, making it likely the more enjoyable choice for users seeking satisfaction in their keystrokes. If you are in search of something with more character, the Sunset Gleam is the way to go, but if you prefer a more straightforward linear switch, the Lotus may suffice. Ultimately, the choice hinges on individual priorities, but both will perform adequately across various setups.

Conclusion

To wrap up, choosing between the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing habits. If you lean towards a lighter feel with a weight of only 50 grams and are looking for a straightforward typing experience, the Lotus may suit your needs well. However, if you are in search of a touch of auditory satisfaction alongside smooth key presses, the HMX Sunset Gleam, with its slightly lighter bottom-out force of 48 grams and renowned factory lubrication, might be the better option for you. The Sunset Gleam's subtle top-out and pleasant sound profile can elevate the typing experience, making it particularly appealing for those who appreciate a satisfying tactile response. In conclusion, consider how much you value sound and the overall typing feel in your daily usage—your choice between these two switches will significantly impact your experience on your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Lotus Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more