HMX EMO vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and the HMX Lotus both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The EMO switch stands out for its lively and clacky feel, coupled with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing an effortless and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Lotus switch offers a medium weight of 50g bottom-out force and a bright, resonant sound, delivering a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. While the EMO switch may appeal to those seeking a lighter typing experience, the Lotus switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a slightly heavier touch and a more audible response. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX EMO and the HMX Lotus are quite different, with the EMO featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Lotus has nylon housing for both the top and bottom. The polycarbonate top housing of the EMO creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness which leads to a more resonant sound. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Lotus produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both switches provide unique sound profiles due to their housing materials.
The bottom housing materials of the EMO and the Lotus are both nylon, which means that they offer similar typing experiences in terms of sound. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon housing. Therefore, users of both the EMO and the Lotus can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to the bottom housing material.
Overall, the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the HMX Lotus contribute to their unique sound profiles. While the EMO's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, the Lotus's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, which results in a consistent typing experience with a duller and rounder sound. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile or a deeper one, both switches offer distinct typing experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
The HMX EMO linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the HMX Lotus linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the EMO requires 46 grams for bottoming out, while the Lotus needs 50 grams. Both switches have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, the slight difference in force between the two switches may result in a slightly more substantial typing feel with the Lotus compared to the EMO. Ultimately, users looking for a slightly heavier typing experience may prefer the Lotus switch, while those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the EMO.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch is the same, both measuring at 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of key travel, making them ideal options for users who prefer a specific travel distance for their mechanical keyboards. In conclusion, the travel distance of both the HMX EMO linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch is equal, providing users with a similar tactile feel when typing.
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 HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus for $2.99.
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
Both the HMX EMO and Lotus switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The EMO provides a light and clacky feel with a lively typing experience, thanks to its 46g bottom-out force and factory lubrication. On the other hand, the Lotus switch offers a slightly heavier 50g bottom-out force with a bright and resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and sound profile. If you enjoy a feather-light feel and a smooth typing experience, the EMO switch may be the way to go. If you prefer a bit more weight and a bright, resonant sound, the Lotus switch could be more up your alley. Whichever switch you choose, both HMX EMO and Lotus switches are sure to provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a lively, clacky feel with a smooth typing experience, the EMO switch would be the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heavier bottom out force and a bright, resonant sound with a super bouncy feeling, the Lotus switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound.
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