Gateron CM vs. HMX EMO
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the HMX EMO switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CM and the HMX EMO mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note that both are linear switches with distinct characteristics. The CM stands out for its full nylon housing, which adds depth to its sound signature and provides a smooth typing experience thanks to its factory lube job and lengthened spring. On the other hand, the EMO offers a lively and clacky feel with a light 46g bottom-out force, delivering a bouncy and satisfying typing experience. Each switch has its unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences. 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
55g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CM and the HMX EMO, one noticeable difference is in the top housing material. The CM uses nylon for its top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the EMO features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for RGB lighting, giving the EMO a more visually appealing design compared to the CM.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Gateron CM and the HMX EMO utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. With both switches sharing the same bottom housing material, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when pressing down on the keys. The use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience across both switches, emphasizing the importance of this material in influencing the overall sound profile.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron CM and the HMX EMO will depend on personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. While the CM offers a deep and full sound with its nylon top and bottom housing, the EMO provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing. Additionally, the EMO's translucency allows for a visually striking design when paired with RGB lighting. Both switches benefit from the use of nylon for the bottom housing, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, users can choose between these switches based on their preference for sound profile, aesthetics, and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, the difference in actuation force and bottom out force is quite apparent. The Gateron CM has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the HMX EMO has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, placing it in the light category. The lighter actuation force of the EMO switch may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, while the heavier actuation force of the CM switch offers a more substantial and tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force sensitivity.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the EMO switch the shorter option by just 0.1 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter range of travel distances, which is popular among gamers for its quicker response times. However, the difference in travel distance between the two switches might not be very noticeable in practice. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CM and HMX EMO switches will come down to personal preference for a slightly shorter or slightly longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CM linear switch stands out with its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched characteristics, offering a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the HMX EMO linear switch is currently unavailable, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, it is crucial to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard platform and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron CM switch is praised for its buttery, polished, and creamy feel, providing a smooth and seamless typing experience. With its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, the CM switch promises effortless gliding with each keystroke. On the contrary, information regarding the tactile feel of the HMX EMO linear switch is currently missing. Once again, it is important to consider that the typing sensation can be influenced by various factors beyond just the switch itself.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch offers a distinct sound profile characterized by rich bass tones and a satisfying tactile feel marked by buttery smoothness. While details on the sound and feel of the HMX EMO linear switch are not provided, it is reasonable to expect a lively, clacky feel with a feather-light bottom-out force based on available information. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches will depend on personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience. It is recommended to try out both switches if possible to determine which one aligns better with your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CM linear switch or the HMX EMO linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and enjoy a bouncy typing experience with a richer, deeper sound profile, the CM switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a lively, clacky feel with a smooth and effortless typing experience, the EMO switch could be more suitable. Consider the sound and feel descriptions of each switch to determine which aligns best with your preferences and typing needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what will provide you with the most comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
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