HMX Lotus vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus and the Gateron New North Pole V2 both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX Lotus, a linear switch, is best known for its medium weight of 50g bottom out and bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2, also a linear switch, is distinguished by its removal of a rubber dampener for a crisper typing experience while still maintaining a frictionless typing feel. The Lotus offers a delightful typing experience with its bouncy feel, while the New North Pole V2 provides a smooth, frictionless typing experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
POM
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the Gateron New North Pole V2, we can see that the Lotus features a nylon top and bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, offering a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic that provides a clearer and more resonant sound. While both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through their housing materials, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately depends on the desired sound and feel of the keyboard.
Despite their differences in housing materials, the Lotus and the New North Pole V2 share similar goals of improving the sound quality of typing. Both nylon and polycarbonate offer unique acoustic properties that affect the overall sound profile of the switches. While nylon is known for creating a duller and rounder sound, polycarbonate produces a crisper and more defined sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches designed with RGB lighting, giving them a more visually appealing aesthetic.
Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Lotus and the Gateron New North Pole V2 housing materials comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience. The nylon housing of the Lotus will provide a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate housing of the New North Pole V2 will offer a sharper and more resonant sound. Both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in enhancing the overall typing experience, with each material bringing its own unique qualities to the table. Whether one prefers a softer, more absorbent sound or a crisper, more defined sound, both switches offer distinct options for customization.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, we see that the Lotus has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the New North Pole V2's 50 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Lotus again is lighter at 50 grams compared to the New North Pole V2's heavier 62.5 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the HMX Lotus would be the better choice due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. However, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Gateron New North Pole V2 with its medium forces. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, with the Lotus providing a lighter touch and the New North Pole V2 offering a slightly heavier feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Lotus offers a slightly shorter key press distance compared to the New North Pole V2. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Lotus due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may find the New North Pole V2 more to their liking. Both switches offer different experiences, with the Lotus providing a quicker, more responsive feel, while the New North Pole V2 offers a more deliberate and pronounced key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron New North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the New North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 Lotus linear switch is best known for its bright and resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch offers a crisper typing experience due to the absence of a rubber dampener, while still maintaining a smooth and seamless glide. The sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so the overall auditory experience may vary based on personal preferences.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Lotus linear switch is known for its medium weight of 50g bottom out, offering a satisfying tactile feedback with each press. In contrast, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches are described as polished, creamy, and frictionless, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel. Whether you prefer a bouncy sensation or a silky glide, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing feel.
Overall, both the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch have their own distinct characteristics that appeal to mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Lotus switch excels in providing a bright and resonant sound with a bouncy feel, the New North Pole V2 switch offers a crisper typing experience with a polished, creamy, and frictionless feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches are capable of delivering a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users will achieve similar levels of typing enjoyment with either choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a bouncy, resonant sound, the HMX Lotus may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium bottom out force with a crisper typing experience and a frictionless feel, the Gateron New North Pole V2 might be more suited to your preferences. Consider your sound and feel preferences when making your decision, as both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, choose the switch that will enhance your typing experience and make every keystroke enjoyable for you.
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