HMX EMO vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the HMX EMO and the Outemu Purple. The HMX EMO is a linear switch that offers a lively and clacky feel, with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. It provides an effortless and bouncy typing experience, thanks to its exceptional factory lubrication. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple is a tactile switch that offers a different typing experience. While it lacks specific standout features compared to the EMO, it is known for its tactile feedback and satisfying typing feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Both the HMX EMO and the Outemu Purple switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This material is particularly useful for switches that intend to utilize RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for better light diffusion. The similarity in their top housing materials means that users can expect a consistent sound profile when typing on either switch, resulting in a satisfying auditory experience.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the HMX EMO and the Outemu Purple switches use nylon, a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound. This material choice in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to the overall typing experience by providing a tactile and auditory response that enhances the user's typing experience.
The distinction between the top and bottom housings of the HMX EMO and the Outemu Purple switches means that the qualities of each housing material are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. This division allows for a more nuanced typing experience, with each housing material contributing unique characteristics to the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of the switches.
Weight
The HMX EMO linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Outemu Purple tactile switch which has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the HMX EMO requires 46 grams while the Outemu Purple's bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience and want to type for extended periods, the HMX EMO may be the better option. On the other hand, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel and prefer a stronger push, the Outemu Purple might be more suitable. Both switches offer different experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in choosing the right switch for your keyboard.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it is clear that the EMO has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Purple has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The EMO's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, as shorter distances are often preferred in gaming keyboards. On the other hand, the Purple's longer travel distance may be more suitable for individuals who prefer a deeper key press and more tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between a shorter or longer travel distance will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Purple 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 and the Outemu Purple tactile switch offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. The EMO switch provides a lively, clacky sound with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, creating an effortless and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple switch does not have specific sound characteristics mentioned. In terms of feel, the EMO switch offers a smooth and satisfying typing experience thanks to its factory-lubed design, while the Purple switch's feel remains unknown. Overall, the EMO switch is recommended for those seeking a light and smooth typing experience with a lively sound profile, while the Purple switch may offer a different tactile experience that could be equally enjoyable for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, so trying out both options on different keyboards may be the best way to determine which switch is the right fit.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, consider your preference for a light, smooth typing experience with a bouncy feel. If you enjoy a lively, clacky typing sensation with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, the EMO switch may be the best choice for you. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with an unknown bottom-out force and a different typing experience, the Outemu Purple switch might better suit your needs. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the feel and sound that you desire in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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