HMX EMO vs. HMX Gravel
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the HMX Gravel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference and typing style. The HMX EMO switch is celebrated for its lively, clacky feel and feather-light 46g bottom-out force, making it an ideal option for users who enjoy a bouncy and satisfying typing experience. Its exceptional factory-lubing further enhances the smoothness, allowing for effortless keystrokes that brighten up any typing session. In contrast, the HMX Gravel switch offers a refined typing experience with its medium-light actuation force, leaning towards the lighter side. This switch emphasizes a seamless and responsive feel, appealing to those who prioritize a smooth and grounded typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences; while the EMO brings a vibrant and clacky sensation, the Gravel focuses on smoothness and consistent responsiveness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX EMO and HMX Gravel both utilize a polycarbonate top housing, which significantly contributes to their acoustic performance. The polycarbonate material is known for its rigidity, which facilitates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making both switches resonate more clearly when engaged. This transparency advantage of polycarbonate also supports the aesthetic appeal of the switches, especially for users who incorporate RGB lighting into their setups. Therefore, since both switches share this characteristic top housing, the auditory experience during usage will be notably similar, providing crisper sound outputs conducive to various typing skills.
In contrast, while both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing, which introduces a different sound dynamic. Nylon is recognized for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic is essential, as it affects the overall typing experience by producing a rounder sound upon keybottoming. Since both the HMX EMO and HMX Gravel employ the same nylon material for the bottom housing, the impact of this design choice will be consistent across both switches. This means users will experience a uniformity in sound depth and fullness when they type, regardless of their selection between the two.
The interaction between the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings in both models further solidifies their sound profiles' cohesiveness. While the top housing primarily influences the sound produced during the release of the key, the nylon bottom housing shapes the result during the key's bottoming-out phase. This balanced architecture ensures that users of either the EMO or Gravel will enjoy a harmonized auditory experience, characterized by a crisp attack followed by a rich, full-bodied resonance. As such, whether choosing the EMO or Gravel, users can expect similar acoustic results derived from thoughtful material selection that blends rigidity with sound absorption.
Weight
When comparing the HMX EMO linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch, both of which are classified as having a light overall feel, the key differences lie in their actuation and bottom out forces. The EMO features an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Gravel has slightly higher figures with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the EMO switch requires less force to register a keystroke, making it the lighter option, which is advantageous for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Gravel, being heavier, offers a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer push feel. While both switches exhibit light characteristics overall, the Gravel's greater actuation and bottom out forces cater to users looking for a bit more resistance. Ultimately, your choice would depend on whether you prioritize a lighter touch or a more robust feedback.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.5 mm, indicating that the distance each switch travels from the top to the bottom is identical. This means users can expect a similar tactile feel and response when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. Since their travel distances are the same, users will achieve comparable results in terms of key actuation and overall typing experience. Whether using the EMO or the Gravel, the 3.5 mm travel distance ensures fluidity and a consistent sensation throughout both switches.
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 HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel for $2.99.
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 EMO linear switch produces a lively and clacky sound profile, which contributes to the overall enjoyment of typing on it. This sound can be quite satisfying for users who appreciate auditory feedback while they type. Conversely, the HMX Gravel switch is characterized by a smoother, more refined sound, appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. However, it’s essential to note that the sound of each switch is significantly influenced by the keyboard’s design, the material of the case, and the type of keycaps used, which may alter how these switches resonate.
When it comes to feel, the EMO provides a lively and bouncy typing experience, reinforced by its feather-light 46g bottom-out force. This switch encourages a faster typing rhythm, making it enjoyable for those who type with speed and agility. In comparison, the Gravel offers a similarly smooth and responsive typing feel with its medium-light actuation force that leans towards the lighter side, providing an effortless experience while avoiding potential fatigue during extended use. Both switches cater to users looking for a pleasant and engaging feel, though the EMO's bounce may lend a more dynamic touch.
In conclusion, both the HMX EMO and Gravel switches are designed to provide smooth and satisfying typing experiences, but they cater to slightly different preferences in sound and feel. The EMO’s clacky and lively characteristics will appeal to those who enjoy auditory feedback, while the Gravel’s smoother sound and refined touch will attract users seeking a quieter yet responsive typing environment. Ultimately, both options ensure a rewarding typing experience, so choosing between them will largely depend on individual style and preference.
Conclusion
To conclude, when contemplating your choice between the HMX EMO and HMX Gravel linear switches, consider the unique characteristics and experiences each switch offers. If you value a lightweight actuation and enjoy a lively, clacky feedback during your typing sessions, the HMX EMO switch would be your ideal choice. Its factory-lubed design contributes to an incredibly smooth and bouncy experience, perfect for those who might find joy in a more dynamic feel and sound while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that prioritizes smoothness and refined control with just a slightly heavier bottom-out force, the HMX Gravel switch would serve you well. Its medium-light actuation brings a satisfying balance, making it suitable for those who desire a more subtle and controlled typing experience without sacrificing responsiveness. Ultimately, your choice should hinge on whether you gravitate towards a lively, expressive feel or a smooth, effortless typing experience tailored towards precision.
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