HMX EMO vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the HMX EMO and the Outemu Dustproof Green. The HMX EMO is a linear switch that offers a lively and clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. It is exceptionally factory-lubed, providing an effortless and bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green is a clicky switch that is best known for its distinctive tactile feedback and audible click sound. While the EMO is ideal for those who prefer a smooth and satisfying typing experience, the Dustproof Green is perfect for individuals who enjoy a more tactile and audible typing experience. 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
80g
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
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 Dustproof Green both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that will be used with RGB lighting. Both switches showcase the benefits of polycarbonate in creating a distinct auditory experience.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the HMX EMO utilizes nylon while the Outemu Dustproof Green also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. In this aspect, both switches share the same material for the bottom housing, leading to a similar tactile experience during typing.
Having different materials for the top and bottom housings of a switch can impact the overall sound and feel of the typing experience. While the top housing influences the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. With the HMX EMO's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, and the Outemu Dustproof Green's use of polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings, users can expect slightly different sound profiles and typing experiences between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, it is clear that the EMO has a lighter touch overall. The EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it lighter in comparison to the Dustproof Green. In contrast, the Dustproof Green has a significantly heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. This means that the Dustproof Green provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the EMO, while those who appreciate a bit more resistance may find the Dustproof Green to be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing comfort and feedback.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than average. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is a bit longer. The EMO switch may be better suited for those who prefer a quicker response time, while the Dustproof Green switch could be a better choice for those who enjoy a more substantial key press. Ultimately, both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, so it depends on personal preference as to which one would be the better option for you.
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 Dustproof Green 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
In terms of sound, the HMX EMO linear switch is known for its quiet operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a more muted typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch offers a distinct and satisfying click with each keystroke, providing auditory feedback that some users find enjoyable. The sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used, so it's important to consider these factors when choosing between the two.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO linear switch is praised for its smooth and springy typing experience, thanks to its low 46g bottom-out force. The EMO switch offers a responsive and effortless typing feel that many find comfortable for long typing sessions. In comparison, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch has a tactile and clicky feel, providing users with a more pronounced feedback with each key press. The clicky nature of the Dustproof Green switch can enhance typing accuracy for some users who prefer the tactile feedback.
Overall, when considering the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, it's important to prioritize your preference for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch. If you enjoy a quieter typing experience with a lighter bottom-out force, the HMX EMO switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile and clicky typing feel that provides audible feedback, the Outemu Dustproof Green switch could be more suitable. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user preferences, so make sure to test them out before making a decision to ensure you get the experience you desire.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, consider your preferences for typing force and feel. If you prefer a light bottom out force and a lively, clacky typing experience, the EMO switch with its 46g force might be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a clicky typing experience, the Dustproof Green switch with its 80g force could be the right choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences in terms of sound and feel.
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