HMX Lotus vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus and TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) stand out as excellent options to choose from. The HMX Lotus is a linear switch with a medium weight of 50g bottom out, offering a super bouncy feeling with a bright and resonant sound that will elevate your typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) is a tactile switch that provides a satisfying level of resistance when pressed, ensuring a precise and comfortable typing experience. Additionally, the Silent Bluish Whites are designed to be as quiet as possible, making them ideal for use in office or shared living spaces. 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
42g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2), it is evident that the Lotus features a nylon top housing while the Silent Bluish White (V2) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the Lotus creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Bluish White (V2) produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer composition, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. While both materials are effective in creating distinctive sound profiles, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound characteristics.
On the other hand, both the Lotus and the Silent Bluish White (V2) feature a nylon bottom housing. This commonality means that typing on switches with either of these keyboards will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller and rounder sound. Despite the shared housing material in this aspect, the overall typing experience and sound produced by the keyboards may differ based on the other components and design elements present in each switch. It is worth noting that the nylon bottom housing contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, emphasizing the importance of the material on the overall typing experience.
Overall, while the top and bottom housing materials of the HMX Lotus and TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) differ, they both contribute to the unique sound profiles of each switch. The split between the bottom and top housing qualities means that typing on these switches will provide a balance of characteristics from both materials. Whether you prefer the deeper and fuller sound of nylon or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, both housing materials offer distinct advantages in creating a customized typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two materials will depend on personal preference and desired sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, both switches have a similar bottom out force of 50 grams. However, the Lotus has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Silent Bluish White (V2) with an actuation force of 42 grams. Despite this minor difference, both switches can provide a light typing experience overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch, either of these switches would be suitable for longer typing or gaming sessions. However, for users who prefer a slightly heavier push feel for more substantial typing feedback, they may lean towards the Lotus switch with its higher actuation force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the HMX Lotus linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch is 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distance, it can be noted that both switches offer the same tactile feedback and actuation point despite their different switch types. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance whether they choose the Lotus linear switch or the Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch. Ultimately, both switches provide a similar key feel and performance due to their identical travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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 from HMX is known for its bright and resonant sound, providing a satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch offers a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes the Silent Bluish White switches a great choice for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum, such as offices or shared living spaces. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lotus switch is praised for its super bouncy feeling, offering a medium weight of 50g bottom out that enhances the typing experience with a delightful sensation. In contrast, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch is described as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished. These qualities combine to provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a gentle resistance, making typing comfortable and enjoyable. The Silent Bluish White switches offer a versatile and approachable tactile feel that many users find pleasant during extended typing sessions.
Overall, the HMX Lotus linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Lotus switch delivers a bright and resonant sound with a super bouncy feeling, the Silent Bluish White switch provides a muted sound profile and a buttery, mild feel that is smooth and comfortable. Both switches have their unique advantages and are suitable for different preferences and environments. Whether you prefer a more audible typing experience with a bouncy feel or a quieter, buttery keystroke with a gentle resistance, both the Lotus and Silent Bluish White switches offer high-quality performance that will enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and noise level. If you prefer a super bouncy and bright keystroke with a resonant sound, the Lotus switches may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a precise and comfortable typing experience with a muted sound, the Silent Bluish White (V2) switches could be more suitable, especially for office or shared living space use. Ultimately, your choice should depend on whether you prioritize feel and sound characteristics in a switch.
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