HMX Sunset Gleam vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the HMX Sunset Gleam 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, the HMX Sunset Gleam and the Durock White Lotus offer strikingly different experiences that cater to diverse preferences. The Sunset Gleam, known for its polished and resonant qualities, is a linear switch that provides a smooth and bouncy typing experience, making it ideal for those who appreciate a subtle top-out sensation with a satisfying clack. This switch is perfect for gamers and typists who enjoy effortless key presses and a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the White Lotus is a tactile switch designed for the discerning typist, featuring a mild tactility that enhances the typing experience without being overwhelming. Its light column not only adds a captivating RGB glow to your setup but also makes it suitable for long typing sessions, offering a tranquil yet engaging atmosphere. While both switches excel in their respective areas—smoothness for the Sunset Gleam and gentle tactility for the White Lotus—your ultimate choice will depend on your personal preferences and typing habits. 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
42g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
56g
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
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
The HMX Sunset Gleam and Durock White Lotus switches showcase distinct construction with regard to their top housings, which significantly influences their acoustic profiles. The Sunset Gleam features a polycarbonate top housing that is noted for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is attributed to polycarbonate’s stiffer structure, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound profile, particularly beneficial for RGB lighting arrangements due to its translucency. In contrast, the White Lotus uses a modified blend of polycarbonate and UPE, which also aims to provide a premium feel while likely impacting the overall resonance differently. The inclusion of UPE can introduce a unique texture and tactile sensation, diverging from the Sunset Gleam's purely polycarbonate characteristics.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both the HMX Sunset Gleam and Durock White Lotus utilize nylon, a classic material known for its capacity to provide a deeper and fuller sound profile. This choice in material is the same for both switches, as nylon's softer properties allow for better sound absorption, resulting in a rounder sound upon actuation. This commonality means that despite the differences in their top housings, users can expect a similar auditory experience when typing, reflective of nylon’s consistent capability to soften the sound profile. Therefore, if users prioritize a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound, both switches meet this criterion through their identical bottom housing materials.
The interplay between the materials used in the top and bottom housings illustrates how they complement each other in creating a balanced acoustic experience. In the case of the Sunset Gleam, the polycarbonate top’s clarity coupled with the nylon bottom's warmth provides a well-rounded auditory feedback, resulting in a versatile performance. The White Lotus, while introducing a modified top housing, still benefits from the nylon's characteristics in its lower half, ensuring that the deeper sound traits remain intact. Users can expect that while the nuances of sound may differ due to the top housing’s construction, both switches will produce a satisfying auditory signature suitable for a variety of typing preferences, making them comparable in overall performance.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Sunset Gleam features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it easier to press down and ideal for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the White Lotus requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, providing a more substantial feel during usage. This distinction indicates that the Sunset Gleam is better suited for users seeking a lighter switch, while those who prefer a stronger push may gravitate towards the White Lotus. Ultimately, the Sunset Gleam's lower forces make it a more forgiving option for extended use, while the Durock White Lotus offers a firmer tactile experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This distinction means that the Sunset Gleam provides a more responsive feel, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker key presses, enhancing their performance during fast-paced gameplay. On the other hand, the White Lotus, with its longer travel distance, could be a better choice for users who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke and a hearty depth in their typing experience. The differences in travel distance highlight contrasting preferences: if you favor rapid responsiveness, the Sunset Gleam is the better option, whereas if you prefer a more substantial feel, the White Lotus would be more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch exhibit distinct profiles that cater to different auditory preferences. The Sunset Gleam delivers a resonant, higher-pitched sound, creating a clean and sharp auditory experience that adds a tantalizing layer to typing. This vibrant sound can engage the typist, making the process feel more immersive. In contrast, the White Lotus opts for a low-pitched, bass-heavy tone coupled with a neutral sound profile, making it an ideal choice for a quieter environment. Its mellow auditory character is less intrusive, creating a calm typing atmosphere that is suitable for work or multi-hour sessions.
In terms of feel, the differences between the two switches are also notable. The Sunset Gleam is characterized by a polished, bouncy, and silky typing experience. This switch offers smooth key travel and a lively, responsive feedback when pressed, thanks to its refined finish and excellent factory lube. Typists can expect reduced friction, enabling quick and effortless keystrokes. On the other hand, the White Lotus provides an easy-to-press and mild feel, designed for comfort during long typing sessions. The gentle resistance and approachable nature of these switches make them suitable for those who want a more laid-back yet responsive typing experience without overwhelming tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Sunset Gleam and Durock White Lotus switches have their unique characteristics, they cater to different typists and their preferences. The Sunset Gleam emphasizes a more engaging and responsive typing experience with its resonant sound and polished feel, making it suitable for enthusiasts who appreciate auditory and tactile stimulation. Conversely, the White Lotus offers a calm, gentle typing experience that is perfect for extended usage without being too taxing on the fingers. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, either switch can truly enhance your keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the environment in which you plan to use them. If you favor a lighter typing experience and enjoy the smooth, bouncy feedback of linear switches, the Sunset Gleam is an excellent option. Its polished finish and resonant sound profile make it ideal for gamers and typists who crave a lively and immersive experience. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that offers a balanced tactile feel with a gentle actuation force, the White Lotus is your best bet. Its mild tactile feedback and low-pitched sound are perfect for long hours of typing at work or home, allowing you to maintain focus without overwhelming your senses. Ultimately, consider the Sunset Gleam for a fun, dynamic experience or the White Lotus for a more refined, stable touch—both switches cater to different needs, ensuring that you can find the perfect fit for your keyboard setup.
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