HMX Cheese vs. HMX EMO
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the HMX EMO switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and the HMX EMO are two popular options to consider. The Cheese is best known for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, with a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. These ultra-light switches are in a class of their own, being lighter than 90% of all switches. On the other hand, the EMO switch offers a lively, clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. Exceptionally factory-lubed, the EMO delivers an effortless, bouncy typing experience that's both satisfying and smooth. Both switches offer unique qualities that may appeal to different types of typists. 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
43g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
46g
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
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the HMX EMO differ in terms of sound profiles and stiffness. The Cheese features a nylon top housing which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic and sound absorption properties. On the other hand, the EMO's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition. The aesthetic aspect is also different, with the clear polycarbonate housing of the EMO being ideal for RGB lighting.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing materials, both the Cheese and the EMO utilize nylon. This commonality means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon plastic. The impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be similar for both switches, as the bottom housing plays a significant role in this aspect. Therefore, in terms of typing experience and sound profile, the nylon bottom housing of both switches will provide comparable results.
Overall, the choice between the HMX Cheese and the HMX EMO housing materials comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The nylon top housing of the Cheese offers a deep and dull sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the EMO delivers a sharp and clear sound. Both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing, ensuring consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, whether you prefer a softer, fuller sound profile with the Cheese or a crisper, higher-pitched sound with the EMO, your choice will depend on your individual preferences and typing style.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the HMX EMO linear switch are quite similar, with both having a bottom out force of 46 grams. However, the Cheese has a slightly higher actuation force of 43 grams compared to the EMO's 40 grams. Both switches can provide a light typing experience due to their low actuation and bottom out forces. Some may prefer the slightly lighter actuation force of the EMO for extended typing sessions, while others may appreciate the slightly higher actuation force of the Cheese for a more substantial typing feel. Overall, both switches offer a relatively light typing experience, making them suitable for various preferences and use cases.
Travel distance
After comparing the travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, it is clear that both switches have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that whether you are using the Cheese or the EMO switch, you can expect to feel the same distance when pressing down on a key. This similarity in travel distance ensures that you will get consistent results in terms of key feel and responsiveness when using either switch. Overall, both switches offer the same level of key travel, making them equally suitable options for those looking for a linear switch with a 3.5 mm travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.99.
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
The HMX Cheese linear switch is best known for its smoothness and pristine typing experience, with a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. On the other hand, the HMX EMO linear switch offers a lively, clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. While the Cheese switch is lighter than 90% of all switches, the EMO switch is exceptionally factory-lubed, providing an effortless and bouncy typing experience. When it comes to sound, the Cheese switch is known for its unique characteristics, while the EMO switch offers a different sound profile. In terms of feel, the Cheese switch provides a smooth typing experience, while the EMO switch offers a lively and satisfying feel.
Overall, both the HMX Cheese and EMO linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cheese switch excels in smoothness and a distinctive sound signature, while the EMO switch stands out for its lively feel and feather-light bottom-out force. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch option. Ultimately, choosing between the Cheese and EMO switches will come down to your individual preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for an ultra-light switch with a smooth and pristine typing experience, as well as a satisfying clacky sound signature, the HMX Cheese linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lively and bouncy typing experience with a feather-light bottom-out force, the HMX EMO linear switch would be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a smoother typing feel or a more vibrant and clacky typing experience.
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