HMX EMO vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the HMX EMO and the Outemu Black, both of which are linear switches. The HMX EMO switch is known for offering a lively and clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. With exceptional factory-lubing, the EMO delivers an effortless and bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch lacks a specific standout feature but is still a reliable linear switch option. If you prefer a switch with a lighter touch and a more tactile feel, the HMX EMO might be the better choice for you. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX EMO and the Outemu Black both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, contributing to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. On the other hand, the EMO and the Black diverge when it comes to their bottom housing material. The EMO features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Black's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall.
In terms of aesthetics and sound profiles, both the HMX EMO and the Outemu Black benefit from their use of polycarbonate in the top housing. This material choice creates a sharp and clear sound profile, ideal for those looking for a distinct typing experience. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The EMO's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper sound profile, while the Black's polycarbonate bottom housing lends itself to a crisper and more resonant sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials showcases how the combination of different plastics can impact the overall typing experience and sound of a switch.
Ultimately, whether you choose the HMX EMO or the Outemu Black, the combination of polycarbonate in the top housing will lead to similar results in terms of sound profile. Both switches will offer a sharp and clear typing experience with the added benefit of being compatible with RGB lighting thanks to polycarbonate's translucency. However, the choice between the switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the bottom housing material. The EMO's nylon bottom housing will provide a deeper and fuller sound, while the Black's polycarbonate bottom housing will offer a crisper and more resonant sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch to the Outemu Black linear switch, it becomes evident that there are significant differences between the two. The EMO switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, providing users with a more substantial push feel while typing. Those looking for a switch with a lighter touch may find the EMO switch to be more suitable for their needs, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may favor the Outemu Black switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, it is clear that the EMO has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Black which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The EMO with its shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the Black with its slightly longer travel distance may provide a more traditional and deeper key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference - whether one prefers a shorter, more responsive key press or a longer, more substantial key press experience.
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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 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 renowned for its lively and clacky feel, boasting a light 46g bottom-out force that provides a satisfying typing experience. The switch is factory-lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless keystroke that feels bouncy. On the other hand, the Outemu Black linear switch does not have specific information available regarding its feel, but it is known for its reliability and durability.
When it comes to sound, the subjective qualities of the HMX EMO and Outemu Black switches are not specified. Sound is often influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis, keycap material, and typing technique, which can all contribute to the overall acoustics of the switch. Therefore, without specific information, it is difficult to compare the sound profiles of these two switches directly.
Overall, while the specific subjective qualities of the HMX EMO and Outemu Black linear switches may vary in terms of sound and feel, both switches offer a reliable and consistent typing experience. Whether you prefer the lively and bouncy feel of the EMO or the durability of the Outemu Black, you can expect similar results in terms of performance and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference and what qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and bottom-out force. Opt for the HMX EMO if you enjoy a lighter, bouncy typing feel with a bottom-out force of 46 grams. This switch offers a lively and smooth typing experience that may appeal to those looking for a satisfying clicky feel. On the other hand, choose the Outemu Black if you prefer a heavier typing experience with a bottom-out force of 82 grams. This switch provides a more solid and robust feel that may suit those who prefer a heavier touch. Ultimately, your choice should depend on your personal typing style and preference for bottom-out force.
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