HMX Lotus vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the HMX Lotus and the KTT Miaowu. The HMX Lotus is a linear switch with a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling that adds delight to every keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu is also a linear switch known for its enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action due to KTT's latest molds and the use of POK in its stem. While the Lotus offers a bouncy typing experience, the Miaowu provides a combination of bouncy and clacky sensations. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The HMX Lotus and KTT Miaowu both use different materials for their top housing, with the Lotus featuring nylon and the Miaowu featuring polycarbonate. The nylon top housing of the Lotus provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer properties that absorb more sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Miaowu creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer nature. While both materials have their own distinct characteristics, they ultimately affect the sound produced by the switch in different ways.
On the other hand, both the Lotus and Miaowu use nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a similar deep and full sound profile for typing on switches. The softer properties of nylon allow it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This similarity in bottom housing material means that users can expect consistent typing experiences when it comes to the sound produced by pressing down on the switches. Despite differences in their top housing materials, the use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a shared acoustic quality between the two switches.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is evident that each contributes differently to the sound profile. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when the key is released. This indicates that the choice of housing material for both the top and bottom of a switch plays a crucial role in determining the sound produced during typing. Whether it's nylon or polycarbonate, the material used in each part of the housing can significantly affect the overall typing experience and sound profile of the switch.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch showcase some key differences. The Lotus has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Miaowu has an actuation force of 43 grams, making the Miaowu slightly lighter in this aspect. Both switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that they require the same amount of force to fully press the key. While the Lotus is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force, both switches offer a relatively light typing experience compared to other switches on the market. This makes them suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming for extended periods. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for actuation force, with the Miaowu being the lighter option for those who prefer a lighter touch.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Lotus linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance allows for a consistent typing experience between the two switches. It is worth noting that having the same travel distance can provide a comparable typing experience in terms of tactile feedback and key response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
The HMX Lotus comes in at $3.49 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Lotus linear switch is best known for its bright and resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound that can be crisp, bright, and percussive. Depending on the other components of your setup such as the keyboard and keycaps, the sound of these switches can vary.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Lotus linear switch offers a medium weight of 50g bottom out, giving a bouncy sensation to each key press. The keys have a lively feel, providing rebound when pressed. In contrast, the KTT Miaowu linear switch leverages KTT's latest molds for enhanced stem stability, resulting in a smoother keystroke action. Additionally, it utilizes POK in its stem, distinguishing it from switches with conventional POM stems.
Overall, while the HMX Lotus and KTT Miaowu linear switches offer different sound and feel qualities, they both provide unique experiences for users. The Lotus switch excels in providing a bright and resonant sound with a bouncy feeling, while the Miaowu switch focuses on a clacky sound and enhanced stem stability for a smoother keystroke action. Depending on personal preference and typing style, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience with their distinct qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, you should consider the unique features and characteristics of each switch. If you prioritize a bouncy feeling with a bright, resonant sound, the HMX Lotus switch with its 50g bottom out force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother keystroke action with enhanced stem stability and a clacky sound, the KTT Miaowu switch with its POK stem technology could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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