Gateron Aliaz vs. HMX EMO
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX EMO switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX EMO. The Aliaz switch is a tactile option that is designed for quiet environments, making it ideal for office settings. With a medium-heavy weight, this switch provides a substantial feel to each keystroke, appealing to those who prefer a more pronounced typing feedback without the noise. On the other hand, the HMX EMO is a linear switch that offers a lively, clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. Known for its factory-lubed design, the EMO delivers an effortless, bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. While the Aliaz caters to those seeking a tactile typing experience, the EMO is perfect for those who prefer a linear switch with a light actuation force. 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
60g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX EMO, both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound output. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it ideal for users looking to customize their keyboards with dynamic lighting.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Gateron Aliaz differs from the HMX EMO. The Aliaz features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which provides similar sound characteristics as the top housing. In contrast, the EMO utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. This distinction in bottom housing material can impact the overall sound and feel of the switch during typing.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both switches highlights the importance of balancing sound characteristics and tactile feedback. While the polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp and resonant sound profile in both the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX EMO, the difference in bottom housing materials between the two switches results in varying sound experiences. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with the Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing or a deeper sound with the EMO's nylon bottom housing, each switch offers a unique typing experience based on the materials used in their construction.
Weight
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the HMX EMO linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Aliaz requires 75 grams compared to the EMO's 46 grams, making the Aliaz heavier in this aspect as well. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the Gateron Aliaz for its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming may find the HMX EMO to be more suited to their needs. Both provide tactile feedback while typing, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of the force required.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX EMO linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Aliaz being on the longer end and the EMO being slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the EMO switch for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Aliaz switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The HMX EMO has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EMO for $2.79.
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 Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is known for producing a muted sound, which is softer and quieter compared to regular mechanical keyboard switches. On the other hand, the HMX EMO linear switch does not have a specific descriptor for sound. This means that the Aliaz would be a better choice for those looking for a quieter typing experience. However, it's important to note that sound can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is described as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience. These qualities result in reduced friction, smooth key travel, and an overall sleek feel when typing. On the contrary, there is no specific description available for the feel of the HMX EMO linear switch. Therefore, if a smooth and polished typing experience is what you're after, the Aliaz would be the more suitable option.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is best suited for those who prioritize a quiet typing experience with a medium-heavy weight and substantial feel. It provides a muted sound and a silky, polished typing feel. On the other hand, the HMX EMO linear switch offers a lively and clacky typing experience with a feather-light bottom-out force, but its sound and feel characteristics are not explicitly described. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities, and choosing between them would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer one quality over the other, you can expect to achieve similar results with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch or the HMX EMO linear switch, you should take into account your preferences for typing feel and noise level. If you prefer a medium-heavy weight with a pronounced typing feedback in a quiet environment, the Aliaz switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a lively, clacky feel in a smooth and satisfying typing experience, the EMO switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a substantial feel with quiet operation or a lightweight, bouncy typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and environment.
Mentioned in this article
