HMX EMO vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX EMO and the Outemu Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The HMX EMO offers a lively and clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing a bouncy typing experience that is smooth and satisfying. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus does not have a specific standout feature but is also a linear switch. If you prefer a switch that is factory-lubed and delivers an effortless typing experience, the HMX EMO may be the better choice 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
35g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX EMO and Outemu Lotus both utilize different housing materials for their switches, with the EMO featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Lotus uses nylon for both its top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the EMO creates a sharp, high-pitched sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a clear and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Lotus produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials.
When comparing the bottom housings of the EMO and Lotus, both switches share the use of nylon material. This commonality means that users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on either switch, as nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics resulting in a rounder sound. The impact of the bottom housing is particularly noticeable during bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. This similarity in housing material highlights the importance of the bottom housing in influencing the overall sound profile of a switch, showcasing the role of different materials in creating a distinct typing experience.
While the EMO and Lotus differ in their choice of top housing material, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by utilizing unique properties of polycarbonate and nylon. The polycarbonate top housing of the EMO offers a sharper and clearer sound profile thanks to its stiffness, while the nylon top housing of the Lotus provides a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature. These contrasting sound profiles show how the choice of housing material can greatly impact the overall typing experience, with each switch offering a different auditory and tactile feedback. Ultimately, whether opting for the EMO or Lotus, users can expect a unique typing experience based on the housing materials chosen for each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams, slightly heavier than the Lotus which has an actuation force of 35 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the EMO requires 46 grams while the Lotus requires 50 grams. The EMO is lighter in terms of actuation force but heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Lotus. Both switches provide a light typing experience, but the Lotus offers a slightly lighter actuation force while the EMO offers a slightly heavier bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Lotus may be the better option, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may prefer the EMO. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches cater to different preferences for typing feel.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Lotus linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum when it comes to travel distances, catering to users who prefer faster response times and more immediate feedback when typing or gaming. The 0.2 mm difference in travel distance may not be significant to all users, but those who are particularly sensitive to key travel depth may find the Lotus switch to be slightly more abrupt in comparison to the EMO switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and response time.
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 Lotus 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 comparing the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch in terms of sound, the EMO tends to produce a satisfyingly clacky noise due to its design, while the Lotus's sound profile is currently unknown. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard it's installed on and the type of keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the HMX EMO is known for its light 46g bottom-out force, providing a bouncy and smooth typing experience that many users find enjoyable. On the other hand, the specific feel of the Outemu Lotus linear switch remains undisclosed at this time.
Overall, when considering both the sound and feel of the HMX EMO and the Outemu Lotus linear switches, it's important to note that subjective experiences may vary. However, given the information available, it can be inferred that the EMO switch offers a vibrant and lightweight typing feel accompanied by a distinctive clacky sound. Without information on the Lotus switch, it's hard to make a direct comparison, but with similar characteristics in linear switches, users could expect a relatively similar typing experience in that aspect. Ultimately, the best way to determine which switch is right for you would be to try them out in person if possible.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, consider your preference for a lighter bottom-out force. If you prefer a feather-light 46g bottom-out force that offers a lively and clacky typing experience, the HMX EMO switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier 50g bottom-out force and are looking for a smooth and satisfying typing experience, the Outemu Lotus switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and the level of force you are comfortable with.
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