HMX EMO vs. Gateron Jupiter Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX EMO linear switch to the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, it becomes evident that both offer unique typing experiences. The HMX EMO switch stands out for its lively and clacky feel, along with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing a satisfying and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches offer a more classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight, blending tradition with innovation. While the EMO switch is exceptional for its bouncy typing experience, the Jupiter Browns boast high-precision molds and enhanced backlight effects. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing habits. 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
55g
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
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
Spring steel
Housing materials
The HMX EMO and the Gateron Jupiter Brown both feature polycarbonate top housings which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing aesthetic. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housings, users can expect similar sound profiles and visual effects when using either switch.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the HMX EMO features a nylon material while the Gateron Jupiter Brown also opts for nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both switches benefit from the acoustic properties of nylon in their bottom housings, providing users with a satisfying typing experience that emphasizes the sound quality.
It's important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing will influence the sound when a key is released. Despite the slight difference in housing materials between the HMX EMO and the Gateron Jupiter Brown, users can still expect a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and overall feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, we see that the EMO is lighter in both aspects. The EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Jupiter Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. This means that the EMO requires less force to trigger a keystroke and to bottom out compared to the Jupiter Brown, making it a lighter option overall. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the EMO would be the better choice. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Jupiter Brown with its medium-heavy forces would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch which has a travel distance of 4mm. The EMO switch may be preferred by gamers for its quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance, while the Jupiter Brown switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer a distinct feel in terms of travel distance, with the EMO providing a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Jupiter Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
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 Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 often described as having a crisp and lively sound, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch is known for delivering a quieter and more subtle typing sound, making it a great option for those who prefer a less pronounced acoustic profile. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can be influenced by various factors, such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the HMX EMO linear switch is celebrated for its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, offering a bouncy and effortless typing experience. The Jupiter Brown tactile switch, on the other hand, provides a mild and polished feel, characterized by a smooth and refined keystroke that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the stepped characteristic of the Jupiter Brown switch means it offers a two-stage tactile feedback, providing a unique typing sensation.
Considering the subjective qualities of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, it's clear that both switches offer distinct advantages depending on individual preferences. The HMX EMO excels in providing a lively and clacky typing experience with a light actuation force, while the Gateron Jupiter Brown delivers a more subdued and polished feel, along with a two-stage tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience. However, it's worth noting that both switches are designed with high-precision molds and enhanced features to ensure reliable performance and aesthetic appeal, so regardless of your choice, you can expect a quality typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, consider the factors that are important to you. If you prefer a feather-light typing experience with a lively, clacky feel and a lower bottom-out force, the EMO may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more classic keystroke feel at a medium-heavy weight with innovative features such as enhanced backlight effects, the Jupiter Brown could be the switch for you. Additionally, take into account the sound and feel descriptions of each switch to further narrow down your decision based on your personal preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to your individual typing style and what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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