HMX EMO vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX EMO and the Gateron Lunar Probe mechanical keyboard switches, both switches offer unique features that appeal to different preferences. The HMX EMO switch is praised for its lively and clacky feel, paired with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, making it ideal for those who enjoy a bouncy and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch stands out for its stable and consistent keypresses due to Gateron's dual rail mechanism, offering an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation. Both switches are categorized as linear switches, providing a consistent keystroke without the tactile bump of other switch types. 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
1.80 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
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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX EMO and the Gateron Lunar Probe feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. This similarity in housing material suggests that users can expect a similar sound profile and visual experience when using either of these switches.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the EMO and the Lunar Probe use nylon, a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This common choice of housing material indicates that both switches prioritize sound quality and tactile feedback for a satisfying typing experience, even though the specific design and construction of the switches may vary.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the HMX EMO and the Gateron Lunar Probe are different, each housing serves a distinct purpose in influencing the sound profile and overall typing experience of the switches. The qualities of the top and bottom housings are divided accordingly, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing plays a greater role in the sound when releasing a key. This division of housing materials highlights the attention to detail and craftsmanship that goes into designing mechanical switches for a customized typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, it is apparent that both switches fall into the lighter category. The EMO has a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Lunar Probe's 45 grams, while the bottom out forces of 46 grams for the EMO and 50 grams for the Lunar Probe are also on the lighter side. This means that both switches provide a more effortless typing experience, which can be beneficial for those who prefer a lighter touch on their keyboards. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, they may find the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches to be too light for their liking. In this case, they may opt for switches with heavier forces to suit their preferences. Ultimately, both the HMX EMO and Gateron Lunar Probe linear switches offer a lighter typing experience, making them suitable for those who value a more effortless keystroke.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Although the difference between the two is minimal, it can still affect the typing experience. The shorter travel distance of the EMO switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Lunar Probe switch could provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper keypress. In general, both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for users who prioritize speed and efficiency in their typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and typing styles.
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 Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 switch is known for its lively and clacky sound profile, making each keystroke feel satisfyingly audible. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is praised for its smooth and subtle sound signature, providing a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the sound produced by both switches will also depend on external factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
As for the typing feel, the HMX EMO switch offers a bouncy and effortless typing experience with its feather-light 46g bottom-out force. This switch is factory-lubed for added smoothness, resulting in a satisfying tactile sensation with each keypress. In contrast, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch features Gateron's dual rail mechanism for stability, offering a consistently smooth linear typing feel. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, catering to different preferences in terms of tactile feedback.
Overall, the HMX EMO and Gateron Lunar Probe switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities to enhance your typing experience. While the EMO switch emphasizes a livelier sound and a bouncy feel, the Lunar Probe switch focuses on smoothness and stability. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience to suit your needs. Ultimately, both switches deliver high-quality performance and can be relied upon for a consistent and reliable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you're looking for a lightweight and bouncy typing experience, the HMX EMO linear switch with a bottom-out force of 46 grams is the way to go. Its factory-lubed construction ensures effortless keypresses and a satisfying feel. On the other hand, if you prefer stability and consistency in your keypresses along with a smooth linear sensation, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch with a bottom-out force of 50 grams is a great choice. Its dual rail mechanism and pre-lubed design provide a smooth typing experience with a subtle sound signature. Consider your typing preferences and desired feel when choosing between these two switches for your mechanical keyboard.
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