HMX EMO vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch. The HMX EMO switch is renowned for its lively and clacky feel, offering a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. This factory-lubed switch provides an effortless, bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. On the other hand, the EF Grayish switches from Gateron offer a tactile typing experience. Crafted using custom molds, these switches are known for their medium weight, neutral sound signature, and approachable price point. While the EMO offers a linear typing experience, the EF Grayish provides a tactile feedback. 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
40g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX EMO and the Gateron EverFree Grayish are quite similar in terms of their top housing material, both utilizing polycarbonate. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting for a visually appealing experience.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The EMO features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. On the other hand, the EverFree Grayish also uses a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing the same qualities in sound production. These nylon bottom housings contribute significantly to the typing experience, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches.
Overall, while both switches share similar characteristics with their polycarbonate top housing, the difference in their nylon bottom housing materials sets them apart in terms of sound profile. The EMO's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller typing sound, while the EverFree Grayish's nylon bottom housing offers a similar experience. The split qualities of the bottom and top housing materials provide a unique typing experience, showcasing the importance of material selection in switch design.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, it is evident that there are significant differences. The EMO switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, providing a relatively light typing experience. On the other hand, the EF Grayish switch has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams, but its bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the EMO switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, users seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the EF Grayish switch due to its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the EverFree Grayish tactile switch is the shorter option compared to the EMO linear switch. However, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal and may not be noticeable to all users. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference, with the EMO offering a slightly longer travel distance for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes.
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 Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish has an MSRP of $2.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EverFree (EF) Grayish for $2.69.
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 HMX EMO linear switch provides a lively and clacky sound profile, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch offers a neutral sound signature. The EMO switch may produce a more pronounced and satisfying typing experience audibly, whereas the EF Grayish switch is designed to suit a variety of preferences with its moderate sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO linear switch offers a bouncy and smooth typing experience with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch is known for its stepped and snappy tactile feedback, providing a more nuanced typing feel that is responsive and dynamic. The EMO switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter and more consistent keystroke, while the EF Grayish switch caters to users who appreciate a tactile switch with noticeable pre-travel and post-travel stages.
Considering the available information, the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a livelier and clackier sound profile with a smoother typing experience, the EMO switch may be more suitable for you. Alternatively, if you enjoy a neutral sound signature and a tactile switch with stepped and snappy feedback for a dynamic typing feel, the EF Grayish switch would be a better option. Ultimately, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so selecting between them would depend on your personal typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the HMX EMO switch if you prefer a light 46g bottom-out force, a lively and clacky typing experience, and a factory-lubed smoothness. On the other hand, opt for the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch if you prefer a medium weight tactile switch with a more neutral sound profile, and a stepped feel that provides a mild tactile feedback with snappy responsiveness. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and tactile feedback.
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