HMX EMO vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the HMX EMO and the Kailh Plum. The HMX EMO is a linear switch known for its lively and clacky feel, coupled with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. In contrast, the Kailh Plum is a tactile switch that offers a unique typing experience with its hefty feel and subtle tactile bump. While the EMO provides a bouncy and smooth typing experience, the Plum offers a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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 housing materials of the HMX EMO and the Kailh Plum are quite similar in terms of the top housing being made of polycarbonate. Both switches create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate. Additionally, the transparency of polycarbonate allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, the bottom housing material for both switches differs, with the EMO utilizing nylon and the Plum also featuring nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile as the softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of sound and feel, the differences between the top and bottom housings of the switches become apparent. The qualities of the bottom housing material, whether nylon or polycarbonate, have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is fully pressed. Conversely, the top housing material, also polycarbonate for both switches, influences the sound when the key is released. This split in housing materials allows for a more nuanced typing experience, with each material contributing to a different aspect of the sound profile.
Overall, while both the HMX EMO and the Kailh Plum feature polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile and nylon bottom housing for a deeper sound, the differences lie in the overall typing experience. The EMO may offer a slightly clearer and more resonant sound due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, while the Plum may provide a slightly fuller and rounder sound due to the softer nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique sound and feel that cater to different preferences in typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is evident that the EMO is lighter in both aspects. The EMO switch has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Plum switch has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 70 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the EMO switch make it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of use. The heavier bottom out force of the Plum switch may appeal to individuals who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them popular choices among gamers looking for faster response times. The difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be noticeable to some users, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper key press, the Plum switch may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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 it comes to sound, the HMX EMO linear switch is known for being quiet and smooth, with a subtle sound that won't be distracting in a working environment. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a neutral sound profile, meaning it strikes a balance between being too loud or too quiet. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience without being overly obtrusive in terms of sound.
In terms of feel, the HMX EMO linear switch provides a lively and bouncy typing experience due to its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, making it effortless to type on. In contrast, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a unique feel with a hefty weightiness but a more subtle tactile bump, providing a typing experience that falls into a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of overall sensation. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, albeit with slightly different tactile feedback.
Overall, both the HMX EMO linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch provide a satisfying typing experience with their own unique characteristics. While the EMO switch offers a quieter typing experience with its smooth feel, the Plum switch provides a more weighty typing experience with a subtle tactile bump. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, as both switches offer a high-quality typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, you should choose the HMX EMO linear switch if you prefer a light 46g bottom-out force and enjoy a lively, clacky typing experience. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a smooth and bouncy feel while typing. On the other hand, you should opt for the Kailh Plum tactile switch if you prefer a medium-heavy 70g bottom-out force and a unique tactile feel without a huge bump. The Plum switch offers a neutral sound profile and a mild, stepped feel that is suitable for various typing preferences. Consider your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and feel when deciding between these two switches.
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