HMX EMO vs. Outemu Peach
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Outemu Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and the Outemu Peach both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The HMX EMO is best known for its lively and clacky feel, with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. The exceptionally factory-lubed switch provides an effortless and bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach stands out for its lightweight design and silencing feature, making it perfect for those who prefer a feathery light 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
40g
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
Partial box
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
The HMX EMO and the Outemu Peach switches both feature different housing materials for their top and bottom components. The EMO utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which gives it a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. In contrast, the Peach uses a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While the EMO's polycarbonate top housing creates a more resonant sound, the Peach's nylon top housing provides a rounder and duller sound experience.
On the other hand, both the EMO and the Peach switches feature nylon bottom housings. Nylon as a housing material is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This means that both switches will deliver a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to the bottom housing. The differences in sound between the two switches will then mainly be attributed to their top housing materials, with the EMO offering a sharper, higher-pitched sound with its polycarbonate top housing compared to the Peach's nylon top housing which provides a deeper and fuller sound.
Overall, the choice between the HMX EMO and the Outemu Peach switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile. The EMO's polycarbonate top housing creates a clear and resonant sound, while the Peach's nylon top housing offers a rounder and duller sound experience. Both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar deeper and fuller sound. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound will determine which switch is the better fit for your typing and gaming needs.
Weight
The HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch both have a similar actuation force of 40 grams, making them equally light in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the EMO is lighter with 46 grams compared to the Peach's 50 grams. This means that the EMO switch requires less force to fully press the key down compared to the Peach switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience and want to avoid fatigue during extended typing sessions, the EMO switch may be the better option. On the other hand, the Peach switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a bit more resistance and tactile feedback while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Peach linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular for gaming due to faster response times. Gamers may prefer the Outemu Peach switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can provide a quicker keystroke. However, some users may find the HMX EMO switch with its slightly longer travel distance to be more comfortable and provide a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and 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 Peach comes in at $3.40 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 switch offers a lively and clacky sound profile, whereas the Outemu Peach switch provides a more neutral and muted sound, making it a quieter option for those who prefer a softer typing experience. When it comes to feel, the EMO switch is known for its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing an effortless and bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach switch offers a mild and subtle typing experience with a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and refined feel. Overall, while the HMX EMO switch is more lively and clacky in both sound and feel, the Outemu Peach switch offers a quieter and more gentle typing experience. Depending on personal preference, both switches provide a unique and pleasant typing experience that caters to individual needs.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, consider the feel and sound you desire. If you prefer a lively, clacky feel with a feather-light bottom-out force, the EMO may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a very lightweight and silenced switch that provides a feathery typing experience, the Peach may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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