HMX EMO vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX EMO linear switch to the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it is important to note that both offer a smooth typing experience. The HMX EMO switch is renowned for its lively and clacky feel, along with its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, making it a popular choice for those seeking a bouncy and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch provides a quieter typing experience without compromising on smoothness. While both switches fall under the linear category, the HMX EMO offers a more tactile feedback compared to the silent operation of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch. 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
45g
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
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
The main difference between the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the Outemu Silent Ocean lies in their bottom housings. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, the EMO utilizes a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. However, both switches offer a similar high-pitched sound profile thanks to their polycarbonate top housing.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches feature clear polycarbonate top housings that allow for RGB lighting, making them ideal for users looking to customize their keyboards with colorful lighting effects. The EMO and Silent Ocean share the benefit of using polycarbonate in their top housing to enhance the visual appeal of the switches while maintaining a sharp and resonant sound profile. However, the difference in their bottom housings provides users with a choice between a deeper, fuller sound with the EMO's nylon housing or a rounder, more muted sound with the Silent Ocean's nylon housing.
Ultimately, the choice between the HMX EMO and the Outemu Silent Ocean will depend on the user's preference for sound profile. The EMO offers a sharper and crisper sound due to its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, making it ideal for those who prefer a clearer typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing, appealing to users who enjoy a rounder and more muted sound. Both switches offer a unique combination of housing materials that cater to different sound preferences, ensuring that users can find the perfect switch for their typing needs.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, we find that the EMO is lighter overall. The EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it a lighter option for those who prefer less resistance when typing. In contrast, the Silent Ocean has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a heavier typing experience. This means that the Silent Ocean switch requires a bit more force to press both at the actuation point and when bottoming out compared to the EMO. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the HMX EMO, while those who prefer a heavier feel may choose the Outemu Silent Ocean for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Silent Ocean has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the EMO. Typically, a travel distance of 4.0mm is more traditional, while 3.0mm is considered shallower. With gamers preferring shorter travel distances for quicker response times, the EMO may be the preferred choice in this scenario. However, for those who enjoy a deeper key press, the Silent Ocean may provide a more satisfying feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired.
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 Ocean 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 praised for its lively and clacky feel, offering a feather-light 46g bottom-out force that results in a bouncy and satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the factory-lubed EMO switch provides a smooth and effortless actuation. On the other hand, limited information is available on the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch's feel, making it difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect.
When it comes to sound, the HMX EMO switch is known for its distinctive acoustics, which can be best described as unique. Meanwhile, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch is said to produce a quiet typing experience due to its silent design. It's important to remember that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
Overall, the HMX EMO linear switch stands out for its lively and clacky feel, accompanied by a distinct sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is favored for its silent operation, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Depending on your preferences, both switches offer their own unique qualities that can enhance your typing sessions. Ultimately, by considering factors such as sound, feel, and personal preferences, newcomers can make an informed decision on which switch best suits their needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the HMX EMO linear switch or the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a keyboard switch. If you prefer a lighter touch and a bouncy typing experience, then the HMX EMO with its 46g bottom-out force may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier feel and a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the Outemu Silent Ocean with its 65g bottom-out force might be more to your liking. Consider your typing style, the sound and feel you prefer, and your overall typing experience when making your decision. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
