HMX EMO vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX EMO and the Cherry Nixie mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches known for their unique characteristics. The HMX EMO offers a lively and clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing a bouncy and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixies are revered classics within the keyboard community, known for their substantial heft and textured typing experience thanks to the updated materials and springs from Cherry's MX2A update. While the EMO excels in offering an effortless and smooth typing experience, the Nixie stands out with its traditional yet modern blend of innovation. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the HMX EMO and the Cherry Nixie switches utilize nylon in their bottom housing, allowing for a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This shared characteristic enhances the overall typing experience by providing a more satisfying auditory feedback to the user. Despite both switches using nylon in their bottom housing, the specific design and construction of each switch may still yield subtle differences in sound and feel.
In contrast, the HMX EMO features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Cherry Nixie uses nylon for its top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when pressed. On the other hand, nylon in the top housing of the Cherry Nixie switch produces a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in materials highlights how the choice of top housing can significantly impact the sound profile of a switch, providing users with different auditory experiences based on their preference for sound characteristics.
Despite the differences in top housing materials, both the HMX EMO and the Cherry Nixie switches are designed to enhance typing experiences through the careful selection of materials. The polycarbonate top housing of the EMO creates a more clear and resonant sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Nixie offers a deeper and fuller sound. By using materials that cater to different sound profiles, both switches provide users with a unique typing sensation that can be tailored to their preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound characteristics and typing feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and Cherry Nixie linear switch differ significantly. The EMO has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Nixie's heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams. Additionally, the EMO has a lighter bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Nixie has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. These differences in force make the EMO ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience and longer typing sessions, while the Nixie is better suited for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the EMO provides a lighter touch, while the Nixie offers a heavier and more forceful typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Nixie has a longer travel distance compared to the EMO. The Nixie's 4 mm travel distance is more traditional, providing a deeper keypress feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the EMO's 3.5 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, making it ideal for those who prefer a quicker response time, such as gamers. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, catering to individual preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a shorter, snappier feel or a longer, more deliberate keypress.
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 Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX EMO linear switch offers a distinct and crisp typing experience, known for its sharp and snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch produces a deep and satisfying thocky sound, with a low-pitched tone that creates a pleasant auditory experience while typing. Depending on personal preference, users may enjoy the lively clack of the EMO or the rich thock of the Nixie.
As for feel, the HMX EMO linear switch provides a feathery light typing experience with a bouncy and effortless feel, thanks to its 46g bottom-out force and factory-lubed design. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie linear switch offers a textured typing experience, providing a noticeable friction when pressed that some users may find appealing for enhanced feedback and tactility. Whether it's the smooth and satisfying feel of the EMO or the textured feedback of the Nixie, both switches offer unique sensations that cater to different preferences.
Overall, both the HMX EMO linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch bring their own set of qualities to the table. While the EMO excels in providing a lively and clacky sound with a light and bouncy feel, the Nixie stands out for its deep thocky sound and textured typing experience. Depending on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both, each switch offers a distinct typing experience that can cater to a variety of preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the HMX EMO and Cherry Nixie switches will come down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, consider your preference for typing force. If you prefer a lighter touch and a bouncy typing experience, the EMO with its 46g bottom-out force may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial heft and a textured typing experience, the Nixie with its 80g bottom-out force may be the preferred option. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and typing needs.
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