HMX Lotus vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus and TTC Neptune stand out as top contenders. The Lotus, a linear switch, offers a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a resonant sound, providing a bouncy and delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the Neptune, also a linear switch, features an innovative internal structure that combines a smooth, frictionless glide with a springy resistance, reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi. This unique blend creates a matte feel that ensures every keystroke is a textured pleasure. While the Lotus excels in providing a bright and resonant typing experience, the Neptune offers a harmonious balance of smoothness and resistance, making typing swift and effortless. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
41g
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
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the TTC Neptune differ in terms of the top and bottom housings used in each switch. The Lotus uses nylon for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Neptune utilizes POM for the top housing and polycarbonate for the bottom housing. This combination creates a sound profile that is deeper, more muted, and sharper with a crisper sound. The choice of housing materials in each switch impacts the overall sound and feel of typing on the keyboard.
One notable difference between the housing materials of the Lotus and the Neptune is the impact on sound production when typing. The softer nylon material used in the Lotus results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the POM and polycarbonate materials in the Neptune create a more unique, muted, and sharper sound. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate in the Neptune's bottom housing makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard. Despite these differences, both switches offer a distinct typing experience based on the housing materials used.
Overall, the housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the TTC Neptune play a significant role in determining the typing experience for users. While the Lotus's nylon housing creates a more absorbent and fuller sound profile, the Neptune's combination of POM and polycarbonate results in a more unique and sharper sound. The split qualities of the top and bottom housing materials in each switch impact the sound production when pressing down on a key and when releasing it. Whether looking for a deeper, fuller sound or a sharper, crisper sound, users can choose between the Lotus and Neptune based on their preferences for typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force of the HMX Lotus linear switch is slightly heavier at 45 grams compared to the TTC Neptune linear switch which requires 41 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while the initial push required to register a keypress is slightly lighter with the Neptune switch, the overall typing experience in terms of bottoming out will be the same for both switches. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the TTC Neptune, while those who prefer a slightly heavier push may opt for the HMX Lotus. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively light typing experience overall, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Neptune has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lotus. Both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances which are popular for gamers seeking faster response times. However, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the Neptune's slightly longer travel distance to provide a more satisfying depth to their typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance, so users can expect similar results in terms of speed and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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 switch offers a bright and resonant tone, providing an auditory experience that is likely crisp and lively. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune switch is described as low-pitched, muted, neutral, subdued, and thocky, giving it a more bass-heavy and mellow sound profile that is softer and quieter compared to other switches. The Neptune's sound is refined and unobtrusive, creating a more subtle and sophisticated auditory ambiance. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the HMX Lotus switch is noted for providing a super bouncy feeling with a medium weight of 50g bottom out, potentially offering a tactile and responsive typing experience. The TTC Neptune switch, in contrast, is described as buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a unique, springy resistance that is reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. This combination of characteristics in the Neptune switch creates a textured and pleasurable typing sensation that is effortless and polished, ensuring a comfortable typing experience.
Taking into account all the available information, it is evident that the HMX Lotus linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lotus provides a bright and resonant sound with a bouncy feeling, while the Neptune offers a low-pitched, muted sound with a smooth and almost frictionless glide. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience in unique ways, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, whether you choose the Lotus or the Neptune, you can expect a high-quality linear switch that delivers a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, you should consider your preference for a bouncy and bright typing experience with a medium weight of 50g bottom out for the Lotus, or a smooth and almost frictionless glide with a springy resistance and an ultralight feel for the Neptune. If you enjoy a more resonant sound and a slightly lighter typing experience, the Lotus may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a muted sound profile and a unique matte feel with a smoother keystroke, the Neptune would be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific typing experience and sound profile that suits your personal preferences and needs.
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