HMX EMO vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and the Gateron Oil King both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The HMX EMO switch is characterized by its lively, clacky feel and feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing an effortless and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King stands out for its buttery smoothness and low-pitched sound profile reminiscent of snapping dark chocolate. While the EMO switch offers a satisfying and smooth typing experience, the Oil King switch provides a creamy and polished feel. 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
65g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX EMO and the Gateron Oil King switches offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The EMO features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. In contrast, the Oil King utilizes a nylon top housing that provides a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing may appeal to those who prefer a brighter and more resonant sound, while the nylon top housing may be favored by users seeking a deeper and more muted sound experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the EMO and the Oil King switches feature housing materials that contribute to the overall typing experience. The EMO's nylon bottom housing and the Oil King's proprietary INK blend bottom housing each play a role in determining the sound and feel of the switch. The nylon bottom housing of the EMO offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the INK blend bottom housing of the Oil King delivers a pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. Both materials bring their own unique qualities to the typing experience, giving users the option to choose the sound profile that best suits their preferences.
Overall, the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the Gateron Oil King switches showcase the impact that different materials can have on the sound and feel of mechanical switches. While the EMO features a combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings that offer a brighter and crisper sound profile, the Oil King utilizes nylon and a proprietary INK blend to produce a deeper and more clacky sound. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with a clear resonance or a deeper, more muted sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, it is evident that the EMO is lighter in both categories. The EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Oil King has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The EMO provides a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for extended typing sessions and gaming. On the other hand, the Oil King offers a medium-heavy feel, ideal for users who prefer a more substantial push while typing. Both switches have their advantages, with the EMO being lighter and the Oil King offering a heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, it is evident that the EMO has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Oil King's 4 mm. A switch with a shorter travel distance can provide a faster response time, which is ideal for gamers looking for quick reactions. On the other hand, a switch with a longer travel distance may offer a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the EMO being slightly shorter than the Oil King. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on 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 Gateron Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 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
In terms of sound, the HMX EMO switch is known for its lively and clacky sound profile, while the Gateron Oil King switch offers a low-pitched and bassy tone that is reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences that can add a satisfying element to your typing sessions, although the specific sound produced can vary depending on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO switch is noted for its feather-light 46g bottom-out force and bouncy typing experience, delivering a smooth and effortless sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King switch is praised for its creamy, silky, buttery, and polished feel, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. Both switches offer different tactile experiences that cater to individual preferences for typing comfort and feedback.
Overall, the HMX EMO and Gateron Oil King linear switches each bring their own unique characteristics to the table in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer a lively and clacky typing experience with a feather-light touch or a smooth and creamy sensation with a low-pitched sound profile, both switches offer high-quality performance that can enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, as well as your specific typing needs and style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, consider the bottom-out force and sound profile you prefer. Choose the HMX EMO if you prefer a lighter 46g bottom-out force and a lively, clacky typing experience. Opt for the Gateron Oil King if you prefer a medium-heavy 65g bottom-out force and a smooth, buttery typing experience with a low-pitched, bassy sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference for key feel and sound, so prioritize your typing experience when making your selection.
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