HMX EMO vs. Outemu Lime
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Outemu Lime switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX EMO linear switch to the Outemu Lime tactile switch, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The HMX EMO switch offers a lively, clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing an effortless and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime switches are known for their lightweight, tactile feedback, and silent operation, making them ideal for those who prefer a feathery light typing experience with a touch of tactility. Each switch has its own unique qualities that make it appealing to different users depending on their 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
35g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
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 Outemu Lime, it is clear that they both utilize nylon in their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon housings. Both the EMO and Lime benefit from this material in their bottom housing, providing a consistent typing experience with a focus on the bottom-out sound and feel.
However, where they differ significantly is in their top housing materials. The EMO features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Lime utilizes a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. This softer material absorbs more sound, resulting in a different typing experience with a focus on the sound when releasing a key.
While the EMO and Lime may have different top housing materials, the qualities each material brings to the switch are evident in the sound profile and typing experience. The split between the bottom and top housing allows users to feel the impact of the bottom housing when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Whether it is the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the EMO or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon in the Lime, both housing materials contribute to a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, it is clear that both switches are relatively light in terms of force required for typing. The EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Lime has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches offer a smooth and light typing experience, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch. However, the Lime requires slightly less force for actuation, making it the lighter option between the two. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on whether one prefers a slightly lighter actuation force with the Lime or a slightly heavier actuation force with the EMO for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, while the Outemu Lime tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the EMO being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the EMO switch for its slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth to the key press. On the other hand, those looking for a faster response time may opt for the Outemu Lime switch with its slightly shorter travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, catering to different preferences in terms of key press 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 Outemu Lime comes in at $3.40 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX EMO switch is known for its lively and clacky sound, which can provide a satisfying typing experience with a unique auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime switch offers a more muted sound profile, making it a great option for those who prefer a softer and quieter typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities that can cater to different preferences, but if you enjoy a more neutral sound profile, you may get similar results with either switch depending on the other components of your mechanical keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the HMX EMO switch is praised for its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing a bouncy typing experience that is smooth and effortless. Meanwhile, the Outemu Lime switch offers a feathery light touch of tactility, giving a gentle typing experience that is comfortable for extended usage. With the Lime switch being described as mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, users can expect a smooth and refined typing experience that reduces finger fatigue and provides a comfortable feel during long typing sessions.
Overall, the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that can cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the EMO switch provides a lively and clacky sound paired with a bouncy typing feel, the Lime switch offers a muted sound profile with a feathery light tactility for a gentle typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a more tactile or linear switch, both options provide exceptional qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the HMX EMO and Outemu Lime switches will come down to personal preferences and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, consider your preference for a lively, clacky feel with a feather-light bottom-out force by opting for the EMO. This switch provides an effortless and bouncy typing experience that is smooth and satisfying. On the other hand, if you desire a unique lightweight switch with a touch of tactility and silence, the Lime switch is perfect for you. Its approachable tactility and feathery light typing experience make it ideal for tactile fans. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a muted sound profile and a subtle, polished feel, the Lime switch may be your best choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and overall feel.
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