HMX EMO vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and the Outemu Cream Yellow stand out as popular choices with unique characteristics. The HMX EMO is a linear switch that offers a lively and clacky feel, with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. Known for its exceptional factory-lubing, the EMO provides an effortless and bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow is a tactile switch that is categorized as []. While the Cream Yellow lacks a specific standout feature mentioned in the description, it offers a different typing experience compared to the EMO. If you prefer a smooth and clacky feel with light keystrokes, the HMX EMO may be the switch 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
45g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the Outemu Cream Yellow, one key difference is in the top housing material. The EMO features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Cream Yellow utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature. While the EMO's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Cream Yellow's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the EMO and the Cream Yellow utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This classic switch housing material elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of sound when it comes to bottom-out feel and sound. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a more rounded sound profile that enhances the typing experience for users.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the HMX EMO and the Outemu Cream Yellow result in contrasting sound profiles for the two switches. While the EMO's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and clearer sound, the Cream Yellow's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches share a similar experience in terms of bottom-out sound and feel due to their common use of nylon for the bottom housing. Whether you prefer a crisper sound profile or a fuller sound experience, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in typing sound.
Weight
The HMX EMO linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch which has an actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the EMO requires 46 grams while the Cream Yellow needs 60 grams, making the EMO the lighter option in this category as well. The difference in actuation force between the two switches is minimal, so you can expect a similar typing experience in that aspect. However, the bottom out force does show a significant contrast, with the Cream Yellow requiring a heavier force which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial push feel during typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and whether a lighter or heavier force is preferred.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal choices for those looking for faster response times, particularly gamers. The difference of 0.2 mm between the two switches may not be noticeable to some users, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper key press, the EMO switch with the longer travel distance may be the better option. Overall, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, providing a quick and efficient typing 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 Cream Yellow 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 linear switch is known for its crisp, clacky noise that is satisfying to many users. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch's sound profile is not well-documented, but one can expect a quieter experience compared to the EMO due to its tactile nature. Keep in mind that the actual sound produced by a switch can vary based on factors like the keyboard housing and keycap material used.
In terms of feel, the HMX EMO switch is praised for its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, offering a bouncy and smooth typing experience that many find delightful. Conversely, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch's tactile bump provides a different sensation and feedback, although specific details about its feel are not widely known. Users who prefer a more tactile typing experience may find the Cream Yellow switch appealing.
Overall, both the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. If a user enjoys a lively and clacky typing experience with a light actuation force, the EMO switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a quieter typing experience with tactile feedback may gravitate towards the Cream Yellow switch. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience one desires.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience and bottom-out force. If you enjoy a feather-light 46g bottom-out force and a lively, clacky typing feel that is smooth and satisfying, then the HMX EMO switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium 60g bottom-out force and a tactile typing experience, the Outemu Cream Yellow switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preference for bottom-out force.
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