Bsun Cliff vs. HMX EMO
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the HMX EMO switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can greatly influence both typing comfort and overall user experience. The Bsun Cliff tactile switch stands out with its medium tactility and crisp sound signature, making it an appealing option for those who enjoy feedback without sacrificing speed. On the other hand, the HMX EMO linear switch provides a lively and clacky sensation, boasting a feather-light 46g bottom-out force that allows for an effortlessly smooth and bouncy typing experience. While the Cliff might cater to typists seeking that tactile bump for improved accuracy and satisfaction, the EMO is ideal for those who prioritize fluidity and speed in their keystrokes. Both switches have their unique appeal depending on user preferences, but 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
37g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Bsun Cliff and the HMX EMO utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in similar auditory characteristics when typing. Polycarbonate, recognized for its rigidity, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, enhancing the clarity and resonance when a key is pressed or released. Furthermore, the translucent nature of polycarbonate not only allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects but also aesthetically aligns with industrial design trends in which illumination plays a pivotal role. This shared material choice ensures that users of both the Cliff and the EMO experience a sound profile that is consistent and noticeably vibrant, particularly when backlighting is employed.
In contrast, both keyboards employ nylon for their bottom housing; however, the differing properties between polycarbonate and nylon lead to a more layered sound experience. Nylon, with its softer texture, effectively absorbs sound and contributes to a deeper and fuller auditory character when typing. This dichotomy is significant as the bottom housing material influences the key's bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing primarily affects the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, despite the commonality in using nylon for the bottom housing, the differences in materials between the top and bottom sections create a unique blend of auditory feedback, enhancing the overall typing experience on both switches.
Overall, the blended use of polycarbonate in the top housing and nylon in the bottom housing of both the Bsun Cliff and HMX EMO keyboards leads to a balanced sound profile that is both crisp and round. Users can expect a consistently satisfying tactile feedback, with the high-frequency brightness originating from the polycarbonate top, while the deeper acoustic warmth comes from the nylon bottom. Therefore, despite minor variations in construction, both switches ultimately deliver a harmonious auditory experience that highlights the best qualities of their respective materials, making them both suitable choices for discerning typists and gamers alike.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, we find that both options are relatively light, ideal for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience. The Cliff boasts an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the EMO features a slightly higher actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams. This means that the Cliff is the lighter switch overall, making it potentially more suitable for extended use, such as during long work sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the EMO, while also classified as light, provides a slightly firmer feel, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Despite the differences in actuation and bottom out forces, both switches deliver a light touch, making them approachable for users who prefer less resistance in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Bsun Cliff tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX EMO linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This indicates that, while both switches are relatively close in terms of their travel distances, the Cliff provides a marginally deeper feel when pressed. For users who prefer a slight tactile feedback and a bit more depth, the Cliff switch may be the better choice. However, for gamers seeking quicker response times, the EMO's shorter travel could offer a more responsive experience. Ultimately, the preference for travel distance will depend on individual comfort and usage needs, as the difference of just 0.1 mm may not be significant for everyone.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
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 sound profile of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch is characterized by a crisp sound signature that provides an engaging auditory experience while typing. This medium tactility leads to a satisfying click-like effect on actuation, making each keypress feel rewarding. In contrast, the HMX EMO linear switch is known for its lively, clacky nature, which adds to the overall sensory experience during use. Both switches yield distinct sounds, as the Cliff's tactility produces a more pronounced auditory feedback compared to the EMO's smoother and quieter linear execution. However, it's essential to note that the overall sound experience can significantly change depending on the keyboard construction, materials, and keycap choices.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Cliff switch offers a medium tactility that provides a notable bump during keypress, which many typists appreciate for its feedback and engagement. The tactile nature helps in confirming key activation, which can improve typing accuracy. On the other hand, the HMX EMO switch takes a different approach with its feather-light bottom-out force of 46g. This leads to a bouncy and effortless typing experience, allowing for rapid key presses without the resistance that can accompany a tactile switch like the Cliff. The contrast in feel showcases the subjective preferences that typists may have: those who enjoy tactile feedback may favor the Cliff, while users who prioritize smoothness and a lighter feel could lean towards the EMO.
In summary, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the HMX EMO linear switch present two distinct typing experiences shaped by their sound and feel characteristics. The Cliff excels in offering a crisp auditory feedback alongside medium tactility, making it ideal for those who appreciate a pronounced response when typing. Meanwhile, the EMO offers a smooth and lively experience with minimal resistance, catering to typists who desire a more effortless interaction with their keyboard. Both switches have unique qualities that will appeal to different preferences, ensuring that users can select the switch type that best aligns with their typing style and expectations.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the HMX EMO linear switch boils down to your personal preferences for tactile feedback and sound signature during your typing experience. If you enjoy a distinct tactile bump accompanied by a crisp sound, the Cliff's medium tactility might be the right fit for you, especially if you're looking for a satisfying typing experience with a slightly pronounced feedback. This makes it an excellent option for general typing and office work where you want to feel and hear each key press, enhancing your focus and engagement. On the other hand, if you favor a smoother, quieter operation with a bouncier feel, the HMX EMO switch will cater to your needs beautifully. Its lively, clacky feel and exceptional factory lubrication provide a seamless and satisfying typing experience, making it ideal for gaming or long typing sessions where you might want to minimize fatigue while enjoying speed and responsiveness. Ultimately, considering the type of activities you plan to use your keyboard for will guide you to the right choice between these two appealing switches.
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