HMX EMO vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX EMO and Cherry MX Speed Silver offer unique characteristics to cater to different preferences. The HMX EMO switch provides a lively and clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, offering a bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is renowned for its rapid response, featuring a linear action and low spring resistance for instant triggering, making it ideal for gamers seeking maximum speed. While the EMO is lauded for its effortless typing experience, the Speed Silver excels in providing quick and precise keystrokes. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer properties that absorb more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound for both switches, adding a unique tactile experience for users. The use of nylon in the bottom housing for both switches allows for a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
However, the top housing materials of the HMX EMO and the Cherry MX Speed Silver differ, with the EMO featuring a polycarbonate top housing and the MX Speed Silver featuring a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, nylon in the MX Speed Silver's top housing adds to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The contrast in top housing materials highlights the impact of material choice on the sound produced by the switches.
Overall, while the bottom housings of the HMX EMO and the Cherry MX Speed Silver are the same, the difference in the top housing materials creates distinct sound profiles for each switch. The EMO with its polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, while the MX Speed Silver with its nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound experience. This variation in housing materials demonstrates how different materials can influence the sound produced by mechanical switches, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it is evident that the MX Speed Silver is the lighter option. The EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the MX Speed Silver has an actuation force of 30 grams, with the bottom out force being unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the MX Speed Silver, as it requires less force to actuate a keystroke. On the other hand, the EMO provides a slightly heavier typing feel for those who prefer a more substantial push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for gamers seeking faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to the average user, as both provide a relatively quick key press. However, for those sensitive to the feel of the switch, the slightly longer travel distance of the HMX EMO may offer a slightly more tactile experience compared to the Cherry MX Speed Silver. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for either a slightly shorter or slightly longer travel distance.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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
The HMX EMO linear switch is characterized by its lively and clacky feel, offering a bouncy and satisfying typing experience with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is known for its rapid response and low spring resistance, allowing for instant triggering particularly beneficial for gamers seeking quick inputs. In terms of sound, the EMO switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, while the MX Speed Silver switch is described as producing a thocky and low-pitched sound, giving off a deep, rich tone with a bass-heavy quality. When it comes to feel, the EMO switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, whereas the MX Speed Silver switch is described as having a textured or slightly scratchy feel during key presses. Overall, while the EMO and MX Speed Silver switches offer distinct characteristics in sound and feel, both options cater to different preferences and usage scenarios within the realm of mechanical keyboard switches. Ultimately, the choice between them would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and intended usage, but users can expect similarly high-quality performance from both switches despite their differences.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and intended use. If you value a light bottom-out force and a bouncy typing experience, the HMX EMO could be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize maximum speed and rapid response, especially for gaming purposes, the Cherry MX Speed Silver might be more suitable. Consider the sound and feel characteristics of each switch as well to ensure that you're selecting the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different needs, so make your decision based on what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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