HMX EMO vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and the Outemu Cream Blue are two popular choices for different preferences. The HMX EMO is a linear switch that offers a lively, clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. Known for its exceptional factory-lubing, the EMO delivers an effortless, bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue is a clicky switch with a tactile and audible click feedback. While the Cream Blue does not have a specific standout feature like the EMO, it offers a more traditional clicky typing experience that many users find satisfying. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
The housing materials of the HMX EMO and the Outemu Cream Blue switches offer distinct characteristics that influence the sound profile and typing experience. The EMO features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, known for its stiffness, enhances the resonance and clarity of the sound produced by the switch. In contrast, the Cream Blue's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a rounder tone. Despite their differences, both switches exhibit unique sound characteristics related to their respective housing materials.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the HMX EMO and the Outemu Cream Blue utilize nylon, further emphasizing the deep and full sound profile associated with this classic switch housing material. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound during typing. While the bottom housing may have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a consistent typing experience with a focus on depth and resonance in sound production.
Overall, the choice of housing material in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and tactile feel of the typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing of the HMX EMO provides a sharp and clear sound profile, while the Cream Blue's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller tone. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing in both switches enhances sound absorption and contributes to a rounder and more resonant sound during typing. Understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance can help users select switches that align with their preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch differ significantly. The EMO has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Cream Blue's heavier 50 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the EMO requires 46 grams, while the Cream Blue demands a more substantial 65 grams. The lighter actuation force of the EMO makes it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch provides a stronger push feel, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier typing force. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on individual preferences, with the EMO being lighter and the Cream Blue being heavier, catering to different typing styles.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is clear that the EMO has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Cream Blue's 4 mm. The EMO's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Cream Blue's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth when typing. Both switches offer their unique advantages based on their travel distance, with the EMO catering to those seeking a quicker keystroke and the Cream Blue catering to those who prefer a more pronounced keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two 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 Outemu Cream Blue 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, offering a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. The factory-lubed EMO switch provides an effortless and bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch lacks specific information on its feel.
When it comes to sound, the EMO switch offers a unique auditory experience, which unfortunately has not been detailed. Similarly, there is no information available regarding the sound produced by the Cream Blue switch. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction, keycap material, and typing technique.
Overall, while the HMX EMO linear switch boasts a lively and smooth typing experience with a distinctive feel, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch does not have specific details on its characteristics. If you are looking for a switch with a lighter bottom-out force and a bouncy feel, the EMO may be the preferable choice. However, if sound is a significant factor in your decision-making process, further research or sound tests may be necessary to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a light bottom-out force and enjoy a lively, bouncy typing experience, the EMO switch could be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and enjoy a satisfying clicky feel while typing, the Cream Blue switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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