HMX EMO vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and the Outemu Cold Plum both offer unique features and benefits to cater to different preferences. The HMX EMO switch is a linear switch known for its lively, clacky feel and feather-light 46g bottom-out force. With exceptional factory-lubing, the EMO provides an effortless and bouncy typing experience that is smooth and satisfying. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum switch is also a linear switch, but it stands out with its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction. The smooth keystroke and satisfying sound make the Cold Plum switch a popular choice among enthusiasts seeking a distinct and enjoyable typing 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
60g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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 Cold Plum switches both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone compared to stiffer plastics. In contrast, the EMO features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for switches designed to be used with RGB lighting. Therefore, while both switches share nylon for the bottom housing, the differences in their top housing materials significantly impact the sound produced.
On the other hand, the top housing of the Outemu Cold Plum switch is also made of nylon, which results in a similar deep and full sound profile when typing. In contrast, the EMO's polycarbonate top housing creates a distinctive sharp and crisp sound when compared to the Cold Plum. This showcases how the choice of housing material can greatly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch. While both switches may share similarities in their bottom housing materials, the differences in their top housing material highlight the variations in sound profiles that can be achieved.
Overall, the use of different housing materials in the HMX EMO and the Outemu Cold Plum switches demonstrates how material choice can significantly affect the sound produced by a mechanical keyboard switch. The stiffness of polycarbonate in the EMO's top housing creates a unique and resonant sound, while the softer nylon in the Cold Plum's top and bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller tone. Despite both switches utilizing nylon for their bottom housing, the contrasting top housing materials showcase the versatility and customization options available in mechanical keyboard switches. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller tone, the choice of housing material can help achieve your desired typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it is evident that the EMO switch is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. The EMO switch requires a mere 40 grams of force to actuate and 46 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option overall. On the other hand, the Cold Plum switch is heavier, with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may opt for the EMO switch, while users seeking a heavier push feel may lean towards the Cold Plum switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the EMO being slightly longer than the Cold Plum. Gamers looking for faster response times may lean towards the Cold Plum switch due to its slightly shorter travel distance. However, those who prefer a bit more depth and tactile feedback when pressing down on a key may find the EMO switch to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Cold Plum 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX EMO switch is known for its lively and clacky feel, while the Outemu Cold Plum switch delivers a thocky sound profile. Both switches offer a unique auditory experience, with the EMO providing a bouncier typing feel and the Cold Plum offering a smoother keystroke. The sound produced by each switch will be influenced by additional factors such as the keyboard used and keycaps installed.
As for the feel, the HMX EMO switch features a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, making for an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum switch is praised for its smooth keystroke and satisfying feel. Both switches offer a distinct tactile experience, with the EMO providing a more bouncy feel and the Cold Plum offering a satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, the HMX EMO switch and the Outemu Cold Plum switch each offer their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the EMO delivers a lively and clacky typing experience with a lighter bottom-out force, the Cold Plum provides a thocky sound profile and smooth keystroke. Depending on personal preference and the desired typing experience, either switch can be a great choice for enthusiasts seeking a distinct and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing feel, and users can expect similar results in terms of overall performance and satisfaction.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, consider the bottom out force and typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a lighter touch and a bouncy, clacky feel, the HMX EMO switch with its 46g bottom out force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a thocky sound profile with a smooth keystroke, the Outemu Cold Plum switch with its 70g bottom out force may be more to your liking. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make your decision based on what typing experience you value most.
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