HMX EMO vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX EMO linear switch to the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it's clear that both offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The HMX EMO switch is characterized by its lively and clacky feel, providing a feather-light 46g bottom-out force for a bouncy and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switch is all about subtlety, offering a gentle tactile feedback with subdued audio, ideal for those who prefer a more low-key typing experience. While the EMO switch may appeal to those who enjoy a more energetic and satisfying typing feel, the MX Brown switch caters to those who prefer a quieter and more nuanced typing experience. 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
55g
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
No
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
The housing materials of the HMX EMO and the Cherry MX Brown switches both play a significant role in the sound profile they produce. The EMO's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the MX Brown's nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound, while nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both materials are considered classic switch housing options, each offering unique acoustic characteristics to enhance the typing experience.
In terms of aesthetics, the EMO's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown's nylon top housing does not offer the same visual appeal. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches use nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon in the bottom housing allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate material used in the EMO's top housing.
Overall, while the HMX EMO and Cherry MX Brown switches differ in their housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The EMO's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound, especially when combined with RGB lighting, while the Cherry MX Brown's nylon top housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound. In terms of the bottom housing, the use of nylon in both switches contributes to a similar sound experience, with the softer material absorbing more sound for a rounder tone. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking for.
Weight
The HMX EMO linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch. The EMO requires 40 grams of force to actuate and 46 grams to bottom out, making it light in both aspects. In contrast, the MX Brown needs 45 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out, placing it in the medium-light category. Those who prefer a light typing experience may enjoy the EMO switch for its ease of use, while those who prefer a slightly firmer touch may lean towards the MX Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it is evident that there is a slight difference between the two. The EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the MX Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the MX Brown switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the EMO switch. In terms of usage, the EMO switch may provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it preferred by gamers who require speed. On the other hand, the MX Brown switch may be favored by those who prefer a more substantial keypress feeling. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, with the shorter travel distance of the EMO switch offering a swifter response and the longer travel distance of the MX Brown switch providing a more pronounced keystroke feel.
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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 per 10 switches.
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
The HMX EMO linear switch is known for its lively and clacky feel, providing a bouncy typing experience with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. It offers a smooth and satisfying typing experience due to its exceptional factory-lubed design. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is characterized by subtlety, offering a relatively light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback.
In terms of sound, the EMO switch produces a distinct auditory experience that is not described in the provided information. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switch is known for its bassy and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the EMO switch is not described in detail in the provided information. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown switch is noted for its textured feel, providing noticeable friction when pressed. Some users prefer this subtle texture, while others may prefer a smoother typing experience without any friction.
Overall, both the HMX EMO linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the EMO switch provides a lively and satisfying typing experience with a light bottom-out force, the MX Brown switch offers a subtler tactile feedback with gentle tactility. Depending on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience, both switches can provide a satisfactory typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a light and bouncy typing experience with a feather-light bottom-out force, then the EMO switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile feedback and a slightly higher bottom-out force, the Cherry MX Brown switch might be more to your liking. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and overall feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to choose the one that best suits your needs.
Mentioned in this article
