Kailh Box Navy vs. HMX EMO
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the HMX EMO switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch to the HMX EMO linear switch, it's clear that they each offer unique advantages depending on your typing preferences. The Box Navy is ideal for those seeking a heavy typing experience with a distinct sound signature and tactile feel. On the other hand, the HMX EMO provides a lively and clacky typing experience with a lighter touch. The Box Navy is categorized as 'Sharp', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', 'Crunchy', 'Stiff', while the EMO is known for its smooth and satisfying feel due to the factory-lubed switches. 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
90g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Navy and the HMX EMO both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiff nature of the plastic material. This makes them ideal for switches where a clear housing is desired, especially for use with RGB lighting. Both switches provide a clear and resonant sound that is characteristic of polycarbonate housings, offering a satisfying typing experience for users who enjoy a distinct sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Box Navy and the EMO utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon plastic absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that adds a different dimension to the overall typing experience. Despite utilizing the same bottom housing material, the switches may still offer unique characteristics based on their design and construction, providing users with options to choose based on their preferences.
While both switches share similarities in their housing materials, the distribution of these materials within the switch design can lead to variations in the typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing material, such as the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, will be more prominent when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing material will have a stronger influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. This split in housing materials offers users a nuanced typing experience that combines the unique qualities of polycarbonate and nylon for a customizable and satisfying typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, the Box Navy is heavier with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 90 grams, while the EMO is lighter with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams. The Box Navy provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the EMO offers a lighter touch, making it suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. Both switches have different force requirements, catering to users who have specific preferences for actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual typing style and preference for a lighter or heavier touch.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, it is evident that the Box Navy has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the EMO's 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. The Box Navy may provide a slightly more substantial keypress with its longer travel distance, while the EMO may offer a slightly quicker and more abrupt typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for how much depth and feedback is desired in each keypress.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box Navy comes in at $5.50 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 Kailh Box Navy clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy typing experience, with a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp, reminiscent of vintage buckling spring keyboards. On the other hand, the HMX EMO linear switch's sound profile is unknown, so it's hard to compare. Both switches provide a distinct auditory experience that can add personality to your typing sessions.
In terms of feel, the Box Navy switch provides a sharp, invigorating, and somewhat stiff typing sensation due to its heavy actuation force and prominent tactile bump. This creates a satisfying and immersive typing experience that is sure to please fans of clicky switches. In contrast, the HMX EMO switch is known for its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, delivering a lively and bouncy typing feel that is smooth and effortless. Without more information about the EMO's specific feel, it's difficult to make a direct comparison.
Overall, if you are looking for a heavy and tactile typing experience with a crisp and sharp sound profile, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a lighter and smoother typing feel with a lively sound profile, the HMX EMO linear switch might be more suitable. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so choosing between them will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a heavy typing experience with a loud and tactile click, then the Box Navy switches are the way to go. Their vintage buckling keyboard feel and sharp, resonant sound profile will cater to your preferences. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with a smooth and bouncy feel, then the HMX EMO switches are the better choice. Their feather-light bottom-out force and factory-lubed smoothness provide a satisfying and effortless typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you enjoy the most.
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