HMX EMO vs. Gateron Ink Box Black
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX EMO and Gateron Ink Box Black both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The HMX EMO provides a lively, clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, making typing effortless and bouncy. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black stands out for its incredibly smooth and creamy typing experience, accompanied by a sound signature reminiscent of a shaken spray paint can. The EMO is categorized as versatile, while the Ink Box Black falls into the categories of clacky, high-pitched, silky, and polished. These distinctions offer users the option to choose a switch that best suits their typing style and sound 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
40g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the Gateron Ink Box Black, we can see that both switches utilize unique materials to achieve their desired sound profiles. The EMO features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for its top housing, resulting in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. While both materials aim to produce distinct sound profiles, the EMO's polycarbonate may offer a clearer and more resonant sound, while the Ink Box Black's INK blend may provide a more satisfying and clacky sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the EMO utilizes a nylon material that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the Ink Box Black also features Gateron's proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, which contributes to its pointed and high-pitched sound profile. Both switches aim to provide unique typing experiences by utilizing different materials for their bottom housings, with the EMO focusing on a deeper sound profile and the Ink Box Black aiming for a high-pitched and clacky sound.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can greatly impact the typing experience and sound profile. While the EMO and Ink Box Black both offer distinctive qualities in their housing materials, they ultimately aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for users. Whether it be the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the EMO or the softer nylon bottom housing, each material brings its own unique sound characteristics to the switch. By understanding how each housing material affects sound and feel, users can choose a switch that suits their typing preferences.
Weight
The HMX EMO linear switch boasts a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a feather-light typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Those who enjoy a more substantial push when typing may find the Gateron switch to be more suited to their preferences compared to the HMX EMO. Of course, if one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience, choosing between the two switches becomes a matter of personal preference. Ultimately, users can expect different typing experiences based on the actuation and bottom out forces of each switch.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX EMO and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switches, it is clear that the EMO has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the 3.6 mm of the Ink Box Black. Although the difference between the two switches is minimal, it may be noticeable to those who are sensitive to key travel distances. The EMO's shorter travel distance may cater more to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Ink Box Black's slightly longer travel distance could provide a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a deeper press. Overall, both switches offer relatively similar travel distances, so the choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences 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 Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
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 switch offers a lively and clacky sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a sharp and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch produces a smooth and creamy sound, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. The EMOs are more high-pitched and crisp, while the Ink Box Blacks have a richer and more bassy sound, catering to different preferences in sound profiles.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the HMX EMO switch provides a bouncy and effortless typing experience with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. The factory-lubed EMO switch ensures a smooth and satisfying keypress with reduced friction and resistance. Conversely, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch offers a silky and polished typing experience, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
Overall, both the HMX EMO and Gateron Ink Box Black switches provide unique qualities in sound and feel. While the EMOs offer a more lively and clacky sound with a bouncy typing experience, the Ink Box Blacks provide a smooth and creamy sound profile with polished and silky keypresses. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer exceptional quality that will enhance your typing experience. You can expect to get similar results in terms of typing satisfaction and performance with either switch based on your specific preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a light typing experience with a bouncy feel and a crisp sound, the HMX EMO switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a smooth and creamy feel, along with a high-pitched and clacky sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch might be more suitable for your needs. Consider your typing preferences and priorities when making your decision between these two unique switches.
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