HMX EMO vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX EMO and Gateron Luciola both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The HMX EMO switch is known for its lively, clacky feel and feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing an effortless and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola switch stands out with its glow-in-the-dark feature, medium heft, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and a distinctive sound profile reminiscent of a shaking spray paint can. While the EMO switch emphasizes smoothness and satisfaction, the Luciola switch offers a visually striking option with a mix of characteristics like snappy, clacky, and butters. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
The HMX EMO and the Gateron Luciola have differing housing materials that ultimately contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The EMO utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Luciola's proprietary INK blend top housing, which is described as being pointed and relatively high-pitched but not overly sharp. Both materials offer a unique sound experience, with the EMO's polycarbonate providing a clear and resonant sound while the Luciola's blend offers a satisfying clacky sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the EMO features a nylon material that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound that absorbs more sound than harder plastics used in switch housings. On the other hand, the Luciola's proprietary INK blend bottom housing offers a similar clacky sound profile to its top housing, characterized by a pointed and high-pitched sound that is not overly sharp. Both materials contribute to the overall typing experience by enhancing the sound output of the switches.
In terms of overall impact on the switch's sound and feel, the housing materials of the EMO and Luciola play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing material will be felt when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing material will impact the sound when releasing a key. While the EMO's housing materials may provide a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the Luciola's blend, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater 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 Gateron Luciola linear switch, it is evident that the EMO is lighter in both aspects. The HMX EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it a lighter option overall. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switch has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is slightly heavier in comparison. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience and want to be able to type for extended periods without fatigue, the HMX EMO would be the more suitable choice. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing experience, the Gateron Luciola may be more appealing due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Luciola switch is slightly longer than the EMO switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular for enhancing response times, especially among gamers. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - if you prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more robust feel, the Luciola switch would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a quicker, more responsive feel, the EMO switch with the slightly shorter travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer similar experiences due to their comparable travel distances, providing a smooth and satisfying typing or gaming experience.
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 Luciola has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Luciola for $6.50.
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 linear switch is best described as having a lively and clacky sound profile, providing a crisp and bright sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switch offers a unique chirpy sound with a hint of squeakiness, giving it a distinct acoustic signature. Both switches offer a satisfying auditory experience, with the EMO delivering a sharp and snappy sound, while the Luciola produces a hollow and resonant "can of spray paint being shaken" sound.
In terms of feel, the HMX EMO switch is known for its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing an effortless and bouncy typing experience. The Gateron Luciola linear switch, on the other hand, offers a smooth and bouncy typing feel, with a medium heft that ensures a responsive typing experience. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile sensation, with the EMO delivering a lively and clacky feel, and the Luciola providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience.
In conclusion, the subjective qualities of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the EMO switch delivers a lively and clacky sound with a feather-light typing experience, the Luciola switch provides a smooth and bouncy feel with a distinct hollow sound profile. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, showcasing the diversity and innovation in the world of mechanical keyboard switches. Whether you choose the HMX EMO or the Gateron Luciola, you can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, you should consider the bottom out force, sound, and feel of each switch. If you prefer a lighter 46g bottom out force and a lively, clacky typing experience, the HMX EMO switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier 60g bottom out force, a smooth and bouncy typing feel, and eye-catching glow-in-the-dark aesthetics, the Gateron Luciola switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches would depend on your personal preferences in terms of typing experience and aesthetics.
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