HMX EMO vs. Gateron Jupiter Red

Overview

When comparing the HMX EMO linear switch to the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The HMX EMO is renowned for its lively and clacky feel, coupled with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing an effortless and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red stands out for its smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, with a medium-heavy actuation and high-precision molds for a consistent typing experience. While the EMO excels in providing a satisfying and smooth typing feel, the Jupiter Red boasts softer backlight effects and a seamless typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX EMO Linear

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

$3.49

$2.79 per 10

$2.80 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX EMO and Gateron Jupiter Red both feature polycarbonate top housings, which results in 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 with RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing aspect to the switches. Both switches offer similar benefits with their polycarbonate top housing, allowing for a consistent sound profile and aesthetic appeal.

On the other hand, the EMO utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Gateron Jupiter Red also features a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both switches provide a different tactile experience with their nylon bottom housing, offering a unique typing experience for users.

When looking at the overall construction of the switches, the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom housing. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This distribution of qualities ensures a well-rounded typing experience for users, with each housing material playing a distinct role in the overall sound and feel of the switches.

Weight

In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it is clear 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 Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the EMO requires less force to trigger a keystroke and to bottom out compared to the Jupiter Red, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing feel. However, for those who prefer a stronger push feel, the Jupiter Red would provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and comfort.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, we can see that the EMO has a travel distance of 3.5 mm while the Jupiter Red has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the EMO has a shorter travel distance compared to the Jupiter Red. Shorter travel distances are often preferred by gamers for faster response times, while longer travel distances can provide a more satisfying key press for some users. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, so users can expect similar results in terms of responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key press feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the EMO switch is known for its lively and clacky sound, adding a touch of character to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of typing environments and preferences. When it comes to feel, the EMO switch offers a bouncy and satisfying typing experience, thanks to its factory-lubed smoothness and feather-light actuation force. In comparison, the Jupiter Red switch provides a polished, creamy, and silky typing feel, ensuring a refined and buttery keypress sensation. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities, with the EMO focusing on a lively and clacky typing experience, and the Jupiter Reds providing a smooth and polished keystroke. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, newcomers to mechanical keyboards can achieve similar, high-quality results with either switch option.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a light, bouncy typing feel with a lower actuation force, the EMO switch with its 46g bottom-out force may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force with a smooth and seamless keystroke, the Jupiter Red switch with its 60g bottom-out force could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and typing style, so consider these factors when making your choice between the HMX EMO and Gateron Jupiter Red switches.

Mentioned in this article

HMX EMO Linear

$3.49

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

$2.80 per 10

Learn more