Bsun Avocado vs. HMX EMO
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the HMX EMO switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Avocado and HMX EMO offer contrasting experiences that cater to different preferences. The BSUN Avocado is a tactile switch known for its pronounced tactile feedback, making typing a satisfying experience with its snappy bump and buttery downstroke. On the other hand, the HMX EMO is a linear switch that provides a lively and clacky feel, with a feather-light bottom-out force for a smooth and effortless typing experience. While the Avocado excels in providing a tactile sensation with neutral acoustics, the EMO offers a bouncy and satisfying feel with factory-lubed smoothness. Each switch has its own strengths, but which one is right for you ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Bsun Avocado and the HMX EMO feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness and clear translucency. This makes both switches ideal for RGB lighting use, as the polycarbonate allows light to shine through and create a visually appealing effect. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing ensures a clear and resonant sound profile that is distinct and satisfying to the user.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Avocado and the EMO utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that is pleasing to the ear. This material choice enhances the overall typing experience by providing a more mellow and well-rounded sound profile.
While both switches share similar housing materials in their construction, the distribution of these materials allows for distinct differences in typing feel and sound. The bottom housing, made of nylon, impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, contributing to a deeper and fuller typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing, constructed from polycarbonate, influences the sound when releasing a key, creating a sharp and crisp sound profile that is unique to each switch. Overall, the combination of these materials in different sections of the switch housing allows for a well-balanced typing experience that caters to both sound and feel preferences.
Weight
Comparing the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, we see that the Avocado has a higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the EMO's 40 grams. This means that the Avocado requires a slightly stronger push to register a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Avocado also has a higher force of 65 grams compared to the EMO's 46 grams, indicating that it provides a firmer feel when fully pressed. The Avocado can be considered medium-heavy in terms of force, while the EMO is on the lighter side. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the EMO would be the better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Avocado for a stronger push and bottom out force. Both switches have their strengths, but the choice ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum when compared to the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Avocado for its slightly shorter travel distance, leading to faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the EMO with its slightly longer travel distance. Overall, the difference of 0.1 mm between the two switches is minimal, and users can expect similar results in terms of travel distance when using either switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Avocado has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Avocado for $4.00.
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 Avocado tactile switch is recognized for its mild and neutral sound signature, creating a pleasant auditory background during typing sessions. On the other hand, the HMX EMO linear switch offers a lively and clacky sound profile, adding an energetic element to each keypress. It is essential to note that the sound produced by a switch is influenced by various factors, including the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Avocado switch is acclaimed for its invigorating tactile feedback, providing a satisfying level of tactility without being overwhelming. The sharp and snappy tactile bump of the Avocado switch ensures a responsive and immersive typing experience. On the contrary, the HMX EMO linear switch is renowned for its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, offering an effortless and bouncy typing feel. The EMO switch delivers smooth actuation, granting a satisfying typing experience with each keystroke.
Overall, the BSUN Avocado tactile switch emphasizes pronounced tactile feedback and a buttery downstroke, accompanied by a mild sound profile. In contrast, the HMX EMO linear switch prioritizes a clacky feel with a light actuation force, ensuring a smooth and satisfying typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing styles. It is essential to consider individual preferences and typing habits when choosing between the BSUN Avocado and HMX EMO switches to enhance the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a pronounced tactile bump that provides satisfying feedback without being overpowering, the BSUN Avocado switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a light bottom out force for a lively, clacky typing experience that is smooth and satisfying, the HMX EMO switch is the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for tactility, bottom out force, and typing experience. Consider what qualities are most important to you in a switch before making your selection.
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