HMX EMO vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and the Gateron Ink Black V2 both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The HMX EMO is praised for its lively and clacky feel, paired with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force for a bouncy and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch favored for its smooth downstroke and rich clack sound. While the EMO provides a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Ink Black V2 offers a low-pitched, bassy sound with a polished feel. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
Both the HMX EMO and the Gateron Ink Black V2 feature unique materials in their top housings. The EMO utilizes polycarbonate, which is known for creating a sharper, crisper sound profile due to its stiff nature. This results in a higher-pitched sound that is ideal for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a slightly different sound profile that is pointed and satisfyingly clacky. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the EMO's polycarbonate may be preferred for those seeking a clearer and more resonant sound, while the Ink Black V2's INK blend caters to those who enjoy a clacky sound.
In terms of bottom housings, the EMO features nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its soft nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to some users. Similarly, the Gateron Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend bottom housing also offers a high-pitched and clacky sound profile that complements the top housing. Both materials bring unique qualities to the switches, with nylon providing a deeper sound profile and the INK blend offering a pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky.
Overall, the choice between the HMX EMO and the Gateron Ink Black V2 will come down to personal preference in sound profile. While the EMO's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharp and clear sound, the Ink Black V2's INK blend top housing offers a satisfyingly clacky sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the EMO produces a deeper sound profile, while the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2 complements the top housing with a high-pitched sound. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The HMX EMO linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and bottom out force of 46 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial push feel. Those looking for a switch with a stronger push may prefer the Ink Black V2, while those looking for a lighter typing experience may lean towards the EMO. Both switches offer different weight options to cater to different preferences, ensuring users can find the perfect fit for their typing needs.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which makes it shorter than the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The EMO switch offers a quicker response due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers looking for fast gameplay. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 switch provides a deeper key press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distances, so choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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 is known for its lively and clacky sound profile, while the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offers a low-pitched, bassy tone with a subtle chirpiness. Both switches provide distinct auditory experiences that may appeal to different preferences. Ultimately, the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard construction and keycap material used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO switch is praised for its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, delivering an effortless and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch is described as offering a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience with smooth key travel. These qualities make the switches suitable for users looking for either a more pronounced or a refined typing feel.
Overall, both the HMX EMO and Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the EMO switch provides a clacky and lively typing experience, the Ink Black V2 switch delivers a smooth downstroke with a rich sound profile. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, either switch can offer a satisfying typing experience. Experimenting with both switches on different keyboards and keycap setups may help you determine which one best suits your typing style and aesthetic preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a bouncy, clacky typing experience, the HMX EMO switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force with a smooth downstroke and rich clack, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch may be more to your liking. Consider the sound and feel characteristics of each switch as well to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique typing experiences, so choose the one that best suits your needs and typing preferences.
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