HMX EMO vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX EMO and Cherry MX Orange offer distinct experiences that cater to different user preferences. The HMX EMO switch is celebrated for its lively, clacky feel, featuring a feather-light 46g bottom-out force that provides an effortless and bouncy typing experience. This factory-lubed switch is characterized by its polished smoothness and a high-pitched sound, appealing to those who enjoy a tactile and engaging response with each keystroke. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switches boast a rich history, having been reissued with enhancements to meet modern demands. While specific characteristics of the MX Orange are less defined in the given data, it is known for its balanced actuation and satisfying feedback, making it a reliable choice for typists who prefer a more subdued but still responsive experience. Each switch presents its own unique advantages, giving users a choice between a vibrant, energetic feel and a more traditional 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
55g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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 Cherry MX Orange switches, a clear contrast emerges in the choice of top housing materials. The HMX EMO features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and translucency, contributing to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that enhances the clarity of key presses. This particular material is especially advantageous for users who employ RGB lighting, as the polycarbonate allows for more vibrant light transmission. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange utilizes a nylon top housing, a classic choice known for its softer properties. This results in a fuller, deeper sound profile that absorbs more sound, offering a more muted and rounded auditory experience. These differing top housing materials create distinct acoustic characteristics, allowing for tailored preferences in typing feedback.
The bottom housing of both switches, however, presents a different landscape altogether, with both the HMX EMO and Cherry MX Orange opting for nylon. As a well-established material for switch housing, nylon's inherent properties dictate the sound profile experienced during typing. Both switches, having nylon in the bottom housing, create a deeper and fuller sound signature, reflecting the softer and sound-absorbing nature of the plastic. In this case, the sound experience from the bottom housing will predominantly influence the bottom-out sound and overall feel, as they share a common material that helps to produce a more rounded auditory output.
Ultimately, the distinctiveness of the HMX EMO and the Cherry MX Orange lies in the interplay between their top and bottom housings. While the individual materials—polycarbonate for the EMO's top housing versus nylon for the MX Orange's top—create varying acoustic results during key releases, both switches share the nylon composition in their bottoms, producing a consistent deep sound profile. This complementary relationship means that while users may notice a more pronounced clarity with the EMO during key releases, the overall typing experience remains enjoyable across both models, leveraging the sound absorption qualities of nylon for a pleasant keyboard interaction.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, notable differences emerge. The HMX EMO features a relatively light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions without much fatigue. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial feel with each keystroke. However, the bottom out force for the MX Orange is unknown, leaving some uncertainty about its total travel experience. Consequently, the EMO is the lighter option, ideal for users seeking easier, less strenuous typing, whereas the heavier MX Orange appeals to those who appreciate a more pronounced tactile feedback when pressing keys.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, the EMO features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the MX Orange has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the EMO switch is the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel which may be preferred by gamers seeking quicker key presses. On the other hand, the MX Orange provides a more traditional depth at 4 mm, which some users appreciate for its sturdier feedback. If you desire a more immediate response, the shorter travel distance of the HMX EMO may be the better choice, while those who favor a gradual press might find the Cherry MX Orange more suitable due to its greater depth.
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 Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 produces a high-pitched, sharp, and crisp auditory profile when pressed. This quality makes it appealing to users who prefer a more engaging and lively sound without the deeper bass tones that some linear switches may exhibit. The specific sound characteristics of the Cherry MX Orange switch are not detailed, but it’s essential to recognize that the overall sound experience can vary due to factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps. Therefore, while the EMO leans towards a higher pitch, the sound from the MX Orange remains an unknown.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO linear switch is characterized as bouncy and polished, providing a spring-like sensation that ensures responsive rebound upon key presses. The switch's feather-light actuation force of 46g contributes to an effortlessly smooth typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue. Additionally, the factory lubing enhances the overall cushion feel of the switch, allowing for smooth key travel and reduced friction. On the other hand, the feel of the Cherry MX Orange switch is not specified, leaving it ambiguous in comparison to the notable qualities of the EMO.
In conclusion, the HMX EMO switch offers a vivacious typing experience, known for its high-pitched sound and exceptional bouncy feel, along with polished actuation that promotes comfort during long typing sessions. The Cherry MX Orange switch, while lacking detailed descriptions of sound and feel, is reintroduced with enhancements from the original MX Orange lineage. While the EMO offers distinct subjective qualities, the Cherry MX Orange may provide a more subdued experience; the overall sensation and auditory feedback can vary based on individual board and cap choices. Consequently, your specific preferences and typing style will ultimately dictate your experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal typing preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a lively and engaging typing experience, the EMO with its 46g bottom-out force and bouncy, polished feel is likely to suit you well. Its high-pitched sound profile and effortless actuation make it an excellent option for those who prioritize a tactile, enjoyable feel while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you're inclined towards a switch that delivers a more traditional and refined typing experience, the Cherry MX Orange might be your go-to. While its specific bottom-out force is unknown, the reissued MX Orange switches are designed to offer reliable performance along with a satisfying feedback. If you prefer a switch that focuses on balance and tradition, especially for tasks that require precision in input, the MX Orange may be more appealing. Therefore, assess your typing style and sound preferences to determine which switch aligns best with your needs.
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