HMX Lotus vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus and Jwick Taro offer unique experiences for different types of users. The Lotus, a linear switch, stands out for its medium weight of 50g bottom out and bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling that will make every keystroke a delight. On the other hand, the Taro, a tactile switch, offers a cozy typing experience with a snappy, medium-level of tactility and acute, crisp clacks. While the Lotus may appeal to those who prefer a smoother typing experience, the Taro is ideal for individuals seeking a more tactile feedback. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Lotus and Jwick Taro switches have distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile and typing experience. The Lotus's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Taro's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. The choice between the nylon and polycarbonate top housing ultimately comes down to personal preference, with nylon providing a more muted sound and polycarbonate offering a clearer and more resonant sound.
On the other hand, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deep and full sound profile with a dull and round tone. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel for both the Lotus and the Taro switches. While the bottom housing may have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing plays a crucial role in the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, despite the differences in their top housings, the shared nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel.
In conclusion, the choice between the HMX Lotus and Jwick Taro switches largely depends on the desired sound profile and typing experience. The Nylon top housing of the Lotus creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Taro produces a sharper and crisper sound. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, offering a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer the rounder sound of the Lotus or the clear tone of the Taro, both switches provide high-quality housing materials that contribute to an enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it is evident that the Lotus is the lighter option. The Lotus has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes compared to the Taro, whose actuation force is unknown. Additionally, the Lotus has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Taro has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making the Taro the heavier option. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Lotus, as it allows for longer periods of typing without strain. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Taro due to its heavier bottom out force. In this case, selecting the Lotus will result in a lighter typing experience, while choosing the Taro will provide a more substantial typing feel.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Taro switch is the longer of the two. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular for faster response times, especially among gamers. The Lotus switch may provide a slightly quicker feel due to its shorter travel distance compared to the Taro switch. For those who prefer a more substantial key press, the Taro switch's slightly longer travel distance may offer a more satisfying tactile feedback. Overall, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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
When it comes to sound, the Lotus linear switch is known for its bright and resonant clacks, providing a satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Taro tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, which makes it versatile for different environments and user preferences. Depending on your choice of keyboard and keycaps, both switches can offer a pleasant typing experience with their distinct sound characteristics.
In terms of feel, the Lotus linear switch offers a super bouncy sensation with its medium weight of 50g bottom out, creating a lively and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Taro tactile switch is described as having a buttery feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Additionally, the Taro switch is noted for its stepped tactility, offering a mild and nuanced typing sensation with distinct pre-travel and post-travel stages. Both switches can cater to different preferences in tactile feedback, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for users.
Considering the information provided, the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Lotus switch provides a bright and bouncy typing experience with resonant clacks, the Taro switch offers a cozy and tactile feel with a neutral sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing style. However, both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience, ensuring satisfaction and comfort for users seeking high-quality mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the HMX Lotus linear switch or the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a lighter switch with a bouncy feel and bright sound, the Lotus may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a cozy typing experience, snappy tactility, and crisp clacks, the Taro switch might be more suitable. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences, so it is important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch will depend on your individual typing needs and preferences.
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