HMX EMO vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and the Outemu Gold offer unique experiences for typing enthusiasts. The HMX EMO is a linear switch, known for its lively and clacky feel, with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. This switch is exceptionally factory-lubed, providing an effortless and bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold is a clicky switch, characterized by its distinctive auditory feedback with each keypress. While the EMO offers a light and smooth typing experience, the Gold provides a satisfying click sound, making it ideal for those who enjoy auditory confirmation of their keystrokes. 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
1.80 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 housing materials of the HMX EMO and the Outemu Gold switches share similarities when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches use polycarbonate in their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. While the top housing of both switches is made of polycarbonate, the differences lie in their bottom housing materials.
The HMX EMO utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Outemu Gold also incorporates nylon in its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound for both switches when the nylon bottom housing is engaged. The qualities of the bottom housing material can have a significant impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch, particularly during the bottom-out sound when pressing down on a key.
Ultimately, the choice between the HMX EMO and the Outemu Gold switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and feel. While both switches use polycarbonate in their top housing for a sharp and crisp sound, the differences in their nylon bottom housing materials can affect the depth and roundness of the sound produced. Whether one prefers a sharper sound with the EMO's nylon bottom housing or a fuller sound with the Gold's nylon bottom housing, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
The HMX EMO linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Outemu Gold clicky switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the EMO switch would be preferred by those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Gold switch would appeal to those looking for a more substantial typing feel. The actuation force determines the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the force required to press all the way down. Overall, the EMO switch offers a lighter typing experience, while the Gold switch provides a slightly heavier and more tactile typing feel.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Gold clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the EMO switch will provide a slightly quicker response time compared to the Gold switch. Gamers looking for faster keystrokes may prefer the EMO switch due to its shorter travel distance. However, those who prefer a deeper key press experience may favor the Outemu Gold switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Gold 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 known for its lively and clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing an effortless and bouncy typing experience. The factory-lubed EMO switch ensures smooth and satisfying keystrokes. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch does not have much information available about its feel.
When it comes to sound, the EMO switch's acoustic profile is not specified, while the Outemu Gold clicky switch is known for its distinct clicky sound. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a lively and clacky feel and a smooth typing experience, the HMX EMO linear switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a distinct clicky sound, the Outemu Gold clicky switch might be more suitable. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them would depend on your personal typing preferences and sound preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a light bottom-out force and a lively, bouncy typing experience, the EMO switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium bottom-out force and a satisfying, clicky sound, the Gold switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing style and what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch. Consider trying out both switches to see which one feels the most comfortable and enjoyable for you.
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