HMX EMO vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch are two excellent options to compare and contrast. The HMX EMO switch offers a lively and clacky feel with a light 46g bottom-out force, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a bouncy and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches are known for their gentle tactility and neutral sound profile, providing a soft and smooth typing experience. While the EMO switch falls under the linear category, the Meteor Orange switch is categorized as neutral, mild, thocky, and polished. 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
57g
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the SP-Star Meteor Orange, it becomes evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This shared feature means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics. The duller and rounder sound created by the nylon bottom housing will likely provide a satisfying typing experience for users of both switches.
Despite sharing nylon for the bottom housing, the EMO features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Meteor Orange utilizes a nylon top housing. The EMO's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness and resonant qualities. In contrast, the Meteor Orange's nylon top housing will likely contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known to absorb more sound and create a duller sound. These differences in top housing materials may lead to variations in sound and feel when typing on the two switches.
Overall, while the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the SP-Star Meteor Orange differ in terms of their top housing materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles and typing experiences. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the EMO and the all-nylon construction of the Meteor Orange provide users with distinct tactile and auditory feedback. Ultimately, whether one prefers a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound will determine the preference between these two switches.
Weight
The HMX EMO linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the EMO has a lighter 46-gram force compared to the Meteor Orange's heavier 57-gram force. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their weight. The lighter actuation force of the EMO can lead to a more effortless typing experience, great for long periods of typing or gaming. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Meteor Orange provides a more substantial typing feel, which some users may prefer. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Meteor Orange has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the EMO. The 0.5 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and response of the switch. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred for quicker response times, which may be appealing to gamers. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying and tactile typing experience for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
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 SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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 is best described as having a lively, clacky sound profile with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is known for its neutral sound profile, offering a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various purposes. The EMO switch may provide a more audible and distinct typing experience, while the Meteor Orange switch offers a quieter and more subtle sound, perfect for environments where noise may be a concern.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO linear switch is renowned for its bouncy and effortless typing experience, thanks to its factory-lubed components. This delivers a smooth and satisfying feel with each keystroke. In contrast, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience. This means it provides a gentle and refined key press, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the EMO switch may offer a more energetic and responsive typing feel, the Meteor Orange switch provides a more subtle and polished typing experience.
Taking all this information into consideration, if you prefer a switch with a more pronounced and clacky sound profile and a bouncy typing experience, the HMX EMO linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound, gentle tactility, and polished typing feel, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch would be the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, consider the factors that suit your typing preferences best. If you prefer a light bottom out force and a lively, clacky feel, the EMO switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a gentle, soft tactility with a neutral sound profile, the Meteor Orange switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking to achieve. Choose wisely and enjoy the satisfying feel of your mechanical keyboard switches.
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