HMX SU vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the HMX SU and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, preferences can vary significantly depending on one’s typing style and desired experience. On one hand, the HMX SU linear switch offers a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, characterized by its full PA12 housing and T5 stem, delivering a subtly deep sound profile that many users appreciate for its pleasant and quiet operation. This switch is an excellent choice for gamers and typists who prefer a seamless travel without tactile feedback, allowing for rapid key presses without any resistance. Conversely, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch caters to those who appreciate a refined typing experience with its gentle, tactile bump designed for comfort during long sessions. With features like a removable light column for vibrant RGB lighting, the White Lotus stands out not only for its performance but also for its aesthetic appeal in any keyboard setup. Ultimately, while the SU offers smoothness and efficiency ideal for fast-paced environments, the White Lotus emphasizes a satisfying tactile feedback suited for methodical typists. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your unique needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T5
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX SU and the Durock White Lotus, one notable distinction lies in their top housings. The HMX SU features a nylon top housing, which is praised for its ability to dampen sound and create a deeper, fuller acoustic profile. This characteristic is primarily due to nylon's softer plastic composition, allowing it to absorb sound waves more effectively than harder materials. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus employs a modified blend of Polycarbonate (PC) and UPE for its top housing. While this unique blend provides a premium feel and sound profile, it retains some rigidity that can influence the final acoustic quality. Thus, while both switches aim for an engaging typing experience, the materials used in the top housing contribute distinctly to the overall sound output.
The bottom housings of both switches provide a more comparable ground for analysis. Both the HMX SU and the Durock White Lotus utilize nylon in their bottom housing constructions. This commonality grants both switches a similar ability to establish a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's inherent sound-absorbing qualities. Since the bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and tactile feel when a key is pressed, both switches will likely produce a comparable typing experience on this front. Thus, despite the differences in their top housings, users can expect a familiar auditory signature and bottoming-out feel from both switch types due to their shared nylon bottom housing.
Overall, the divergence between the top housings creates a unique dynamic in the HMX SU and Durock White Lotus switches. While the HMX SU emphasizes sound dampening and a rounder acoustic profile through its nylon top housing, the Durock White Lotus's modified PC and UPE blend introduces a contrasting texture and potential sound characteristic. Meanwhile, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent tactile response and deeper bottom-out sound. As a result, users may find that while each switch offers distinct audio profiles influenced by their top materials, the commonality in the bottom housing helps maintain a level of consistency in their typing experiences.
Weight
The HMX SU linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for different typing preferences. The SU switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the White Lotus features a slightly heavier actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams. Although both switches fall within the lighter to medium-light range, the SU switch is the lighter option overall. This difference means that users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience for prolonged sessions may gravitate towards the HMX SU, while those who favor a more substantial feel might find the Durock White Lotus to be a better fit, as its heavier forces provide a more pronounced tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX SU linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, the HMX SU has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock White Lotus measures at 4.0 mm. This makes the HMX SU the shorter option, catering to those who favor quicker response times common in gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus, with its longer travel distance, provides a more robust feel that can appeal to users who appreciate a deeper and more substantial keystroke. For those who prioritize a responsive typing experience, the HMX SU would be the ideal choice, whereas if a richer typing sensation is preferred, the Durock White Lotus would be more suitable. Overall, the difference in travel distance highlights distinct preferences between users looking for speed versus those who enjoy deeper key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
The Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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 sound profile of the HMX SU linear switch is characterized by a subtle, relatively deep tone that creates a pleasant auditory experience for typists. This deeper sound can add a satisfying presence without being overly intrusive. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch produces a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. The White Lotus’s mellow tone is slightly more bass-heavy compared to higher-pitched switches, making it suitable for both home and office environments. Overall, both switches provide a sound experience that leans toward a subdued quality; however, the SU offers a slightly deeper ambiance, while the White Lotus maintains a balanced neutrality.
In terms of feel, the HMX SU emphasizes a smooth and linear action, which typically lends itself to a continuous typing experience without any tactile bump. Conversely, the White Lotus offers a gentle tactile feedback that strikes a balance between being noticeable yet not overwhelming, making it easier to press with minimal resistance. The easy-to-press nature of the White Lotus reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, while its mild characteristics provide a more approachable experience for users of varying skill levels. While the SU's linear feel allows for a seamless glide without interruption, the White Lotus enhances the experience with its light tactility.
In summary, while both the HMX SU and Durock White Lotus switches cater to different typing preferences, they excel in their respective domains. The SU is ideal for those who appreciate a deeper, linear sound and a smooth, uninterrupted feel, making it great for fast typists. Conversely, the White Lotus offers a light tactile experience combined with a low-pitched sound, perfect for users who enjoy gentle feedback and a more engaging ambiance. Ultimately, both switches provide quality experiences suited to different user preferences, ensuring that typists can find an option that aligns with their needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX SU linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch should hinge on your specific typing preferences and needs. If you value a lighter actuation with minimal resistance and a deeper sound profile, the HMX SU could be your ideal option. This switch is perfect for fast typing or gaming, providing an agile response with a relatively subtle auditory feedback, making it suitable for environments where sound might be a concern. On the other hand, if you appreciate a tactile experience and a more inviting typing feel, the Durock White Lotus is your best bet. With its mild tactile bump and easy-to-press design, it excels for long typing sessions, offering both comfort and a flourish of RGB lighting to enhance your setup. Ultimately, consider how you’ll use your keyboard; choose the SU for speed and a quieter experience, while opting for the White Lotus for a balanced tactile feel that caters to productivity without sacrificing flair.
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