HMX EMO vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX EMO linear switch to the Durock Lupine linear switch, it's clear that both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX EMO switch is renowned for its lively and clacky feel, combined with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force that provides a bouncy and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine switch stands out for its two-stage long springs, delivering a consistent weight distribution when pressed down, and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. Additionally, the Lupine switch offers a classic clacky sound profile that adds to the typing experience. While the EMO switch leans more towards a satisfying and effortless typing experience, the Lupine switch excels in providing a more polished and high-pitched sound. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
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
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
The HMX EMO and the Durock Lupine both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to clearer and more resonant sound characteristics. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches designed to incorporate RGB lighting. However, while both switches use the same material for their top housing, the EMO features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound due to its softer nature. On the other hand, the Lupine also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar acoustic experience in terms of sound depth and richness.
In terms of housing materials, the HMX EMO and the Durock Lupine share similarities with their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. This results in both switches having a consistent and uniform sound profile characterized by sharpness and clarity. However, where they differ is in their bottom housing material, with both switches utilizing nylon for this component. This distinction may affect the overall typing experience, as the softer nature of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a fuller and more muted sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate top housing. Despite this difference, users can expect a similar level of sound richness and depth when using either the EMO or the Lupine due to their shared bottom housing material.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it's essential to recognize how each component contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switch. In the case of the EMO and the Lupine, the split between polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing allows for a combination of sharpness and clarity with depth and fullness in sound. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing a more significant impact when typing. Conversely, the top housing plays a more prominent role in the sound produced when releasing a key, showcasing the importance of both materials working together to create a cohesive typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, it is evident that there are significant differences between the two. The EMO switch has a relatively light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Lupine switch's actuation force is unknown, but it has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. This makes the Lupine switch more suitable for users who prefer a stronger push when typing. Overall, the EMO switch is lighter in terms of force required, while the Lupine switch is heavier, offering users different options based on their preference.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. The 0.2 mm difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be significant to most users, as they both provide a relatively short keystroke. However, for those who prefer a slightly deeper feel when typing, the Durock Lupine with its 3.7 mm travel distance may offer a more substantial typing experience compared to the HMX EMO. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keystroke depth 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 Durock Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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 linear switch offers a unique clacky sound profile, while the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a neutral sound with a moderate actuation force requirement. The EMO delivers a lively and satisfying typing experience with a feather-light bottom-out force, while the Lupine offers a consistent weight distribution during key presses and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. Both switches have their own distinct sound characteristics that can complement different preferences, whether you prefer a more lively and clacky sound or a neutral sound suitable for various environments. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO switch offers a bouncy and smooth typing experience with a factory-lubed finish, while the Durock Lupine switch provides a mild and polished feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The EMO switch is known for its effortless typing experience and satisfying bounce, making it suitable for users who prefer a more lively feel. On the other hand, the Lupine switch offers a gentle typing experience with a polished finish that enhances the overall smoothness of key presses. Both switches provide their own unique feel characteristics, catering to different preferences in terms of typing experience.
In conclusion, the HMX EMO linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The EMO switch provides a lively and clacky sound with a bouncy typing experience, while the Lupine switch offers a neutral sound profile and a polished feel with smooth key travel. Whether you prefer a more lively and clacky typing experience or a neutral sound with a polished finish, both switches are capable of delivering satisfying results based on your personal preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on the specific characteristics that align with your desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the HMX EMO and Durock Lupine linear switches, you should consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a light, bouncy feel with a clacky sound profile, the HMX EMO with its 46g bottom-out force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more powerful upward movement and a classic clacky sound, the Durock Lupine with its 62g bottom-out force and two-stage long springs might be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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