HMX EMO vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch offer different typing experiences to cater to individual preferences. The HMX EMO switch provides a lively and clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, while the Outemu Silent Grey switch offers a quiet and highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke. The EMO switch is ideal for those who prefer a bouncy and smooth typing experience, while the Silent Grey switch is perfect for those seeking a satisfying and silent 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
50g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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 Outemu Silent Grey both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both switches offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
While both the HMX EMO and Outemu Silent Grey share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, they may differ in the overall typing experience. The EMO may offer a more distinct sound profile when keypresses are released, thanks to the impact of the polycarbonate top housing, whereas the Silent Grey could provide a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound and feel due to the nylon bottom housing. These differences in housing materials can influence the overall tactile feedback and sound experience of each switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the HMX EMO and Outemu Silent Grey may come down to personal preference in typing experience. While both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, the EMO may cater to those who prioritize a sharper and crisper sound upon key release, while the Silent Grey may appeal to individuals seeking a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound and feel. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience with their distinct sound profiles.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch are quite different. The EMO switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Silent Grey switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The EMO switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force, making it easier to type for longer periods of time and more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch. In contrast, the Silent Grey switch requires more force to actuate and bottom out, providing a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on personal preference, with the EMO switch being lighter and the Silent Grey switch being heavier.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the EMO offers a slightly quicker keypress response compared to the Silent Grey. Gamers may prefer the EMO for its shorter travel distance, which can result in faster reaction times during gameplay. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Silent Grey with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Silent Grey 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
In terms of sound, the HMX EMO switch is known for producing a lively and clacky sound, which can be quite satisfying for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey switch lives up to its name by offering a quiet typing experience, making it a great choice for users who prefer a more subtle sound profile. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO switch is praised for its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing users with a bouncy and effortless typing experience. This switch offers a smooth keystroke that is both satisfying and enjoyable for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Grey switch is highly tactile, offering a pronounced bump with a smooth keystroke. This tactile feedback can help users type more accurately and with greater precision.
In conclusion, the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The EMO provides a lively and clacky sound with a light typing experience, while the Silent Grey offers a quiet typing experience with a highly tactile feel. Depending on your preference for sound and typing feel, either of these switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. It's important to consider your personal preferences and the overall setup of your keyboard when choosing between these two switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, consider the bottom out force and the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a light, clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force and a bouncy typing experience, the EMO switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a quiet, highly tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy 65g bottom-out force and a pronounced bump, the Silent Grey switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the feel and sound you desire in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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