HMX EMO vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX EMO linear switch to the Outemu Green clicky switch, it's clear that they offer distinct typing experiences. The HMX EMO switch is best known for its lively and clacky feel, along with a feather-light bottom-out force of 46g. This switch provides an effortless and bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. On the other hand, the Outemu Green switch is characterized by its clicky feedback and audible sound while typing. When choosing between the two, consider the HMX EMO for a smoother typing experience and the Outemu Green for a more audible and tactile 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
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
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 HMX EMO and the Outemu Green both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic. This material also allows for the translucency needed for RGB lighting in switches. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, both switches offer similar benefits with their polycarbonate top housings. However, the EMO's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Green's nylon bottom housing. This is due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound profile.
Despite the similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the differences in their nylon bottom housings set the HMX EMO and Outemu Green apart in terms of sound characteristics. While both nylon housings offer a classic switch material known for its sound-absorbing properties, the EMO's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Green's nylon bottom housing. This distinction between the two switches in terms of bottom housing material can impact the overall typing experience, with the EMO likely providing a more resonant sound when typing.
Overall, the choice between the HMX EMO and the Outemu Green may come down to personal preference in sound profiles. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharp and clear sound, the difference in bottom housing materials - with the EMO offering a deeper sound due to its nylon bottom housing - can influence the typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound with the EMO or a rounder, fuller sound with the Green, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound profiles.
Weight
The HMX EMO linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it a good option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Green clicky switch has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may opt for the EMO switch, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier Green switch. Overall, the weight of the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches offer users the flexibility to choose based on their personal typing preferences.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Green clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Outemu Green switch is the longer option, with a slightly deeper travel distance compared to the HMX EMO switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter 3.5 mm travel distance of the EMO switch, while those who enjoy a more satisfying key press with a bit more depth may opt for the 4 mm travel distance of the Outemu Green switch. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on individual preferences, with the shorter travel distance providing quicker feedback and the longer travel distance offering a more pronounced keystroke experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and key press 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 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
The HMX EMO linear switch is renowned for its lively and clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing a satisfying and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch offers a distinct tactile feedback and audible click with every keystroke, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy the sound and feel of a clicky switch.
When it comes to sound, the EMO switch provides a quiet typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a more subdued typing sound. In contrast, the Outemu Green switch produces a loud, clicky noise with each key press, which can be both satisfying and disruptive to others in a shared workspace or environment.
In terms of feel, the EMO switch offers a light and bouncy typing experience, while the Outemu Green switch provides a tactile bump and audible click with each key press, giving users a more pronounced tactile feedback compared to the linear feel of the EMO switch.
Overall, the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch offer different sound and feel experiences to cater to the preferences of different users. Whether you prefer a quiet and smooth typing experience like the EMO switch or a loud and tactile typing experience like the Outemu Green switch, both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, it boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch and a smoother typing experience, the EMO may be the better choice for you with its feather-light 46g bottom-out force. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavier feel and a more tactile response, the Green with its 80g bottom-out force may be more suitable for you. Consider your typing preferences, desired sound level, and typing feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice is yours based on what feels best for your individual typing needs.