HMX EMO vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a unique dilemma for keyboard enthusiasts. The HMX EMO switch is renowned for its lively, clacky feel and feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing a satisfying and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch boasts advancements such as smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, allowing users to enjoy a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback with added smoothness. While the EMO switch offers a bouncy and effortless typing experience, the Melodic switch delivers a crunchy and invigorating feel. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX EMO and Gateron Melodic both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the EMO and Melodic differ in their bottom housings, with the EMO using nylon while the Melodic also opts for nylon. Nylon bottom housings elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite having the same housing materials for the top and bottom of the switches, the HMX EMO and Gateron Melodic will exhibit slightly different sound profiles due to the unique qualities each material brings. The EMO's polycarbonate top housing will influence the sound when a key is released, providing a sharp and resonant sound. Meanwhile, the nylon bottom housing of the EMO will impact the bottom-out sound and feel, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Similarly, the Melodic's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing will each contribute to a distinct sound experience when typing on the switch.
In conclusion, while both the HMX EMO and Gateron Melodic feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound profile, their nylon bottom housings provide slightly different sound qualities. The EMO's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Melodic's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound. The combination of these housing materials in each switch results in a unique typing experience, with subtle differences in sound profile and feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch are quite different. The EMO switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, with no specific actuation force listed. This makes the Melodic switch a bit heavier and more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience. While both switches offer unique characteristics, users looking for a lighter touch may find the HMX EMO switch more appealing, while those who prefer a heavier feel may lean towards the Gateron Melodic switch for a more satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is clear that the EMO has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Melodic's 4 mm. The EMO's 3.5 mm travel distance makes it ideal for those who prefer quicker response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Melodic's 4 mm travel distance provides a more substantial key press depth, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Both switches offer different travel distances, with the EMO providing a shorter distance and the Melodic offering a longer one.
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 Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 satisfying and smooth typing experience with a lively, clacky feel, but the specific sound profile is not well-defined in the provided information. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is known for its resonant and crunchy sound profile, providing users with a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. The choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a cleaner, sharper sound profile or a more immersive and crunchy typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the HMX EMO switch boasts a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, delivering an effortless and bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. Unfortunately, details on the specific feel of the switch are not provided. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is described as buttery and invigorating, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a uniform typing sensation along with pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel. If you enjoy switches that provide a seamless and effortless typing sensation with moderate to firm actuation force, the Gateron Melodic may be the better choice for you.
Overall, both the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the EMO provides a lively and clacky typing experience with a feather-light touch, the Melodic delivers a resonant and crunchy sound profile along with a buttery and invigorating feel. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when choosing between these two switches. Remember that the keyboard, keycaps, and other factors will also influence the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference in terms of typing experience. If you enjoy a light, bouncy typing experience with a smooth and satisfying feel, the HMX EMO switch with its 46g bottom-out force would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-bottom out force switch that offers a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback while still maintaining smoothness, the Gateron Melodic switch would be more suitable for your typing style. Consider your sound and feel preferences carefully before making your decision between these two distinct mechanical keyboard switches.
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