HMX EMO vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX EMO and the SP-Star Polaris Gray mechanical keyboard switches, both offer a bouncy typing experience but with slightly different characteristics. The HMX EMO switch provides a lively and clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, making typing effortless and smooth. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch also offers a bouncy typing experience but with a clean and clacky sound profile. The Polaris Gray switch is categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished, appealing to those who enjoy a specific sound and feel while typing. 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
67g
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
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the EMO utilizes nylon while the Polaris Gray sticks with polycarbonate. This contrast leads to a difference in sound profiles, with nylon providing a deeper and fuller sound compared to the sharpness of polycarbonate.
The use of nylon in the EMO's bottom housing compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Polaris Gray highlights the impact housing materials can have on the overall sound and feel of a switch. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile when typing. In contrast, the stiffer polycarbonate in the Polaris Gray's bottom housing contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound profile. This difference in sound characteristics between the two switches shows how the choice of housing material can significantly influence the typing experience for users.
While the top housing material may have a more pronounced effect on the sound when pressing down a key, the bottom housing material plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience, especially in the bottom-out sound and feel. The split between polycarbonate and nylon in the top and bottom housings of the EMO creates a balance between sharpness and depth in the sound profile. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray's consistent use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housing maintains a consistent sharp and crisp sound throughout typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it is evident that the EMO is lighter in terms of both forces. The EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it a lighter option overall. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is heavier in comparison. While the actuation force of the Polaris Gray is unknown, it is safe to assume that it is likely heavier than the EMO. When considering weight, individuals who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the EMO for longer typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Polaris Gray with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it is evident that the EMO has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Polaris Gray's 4 mm. The difference may seem small, but it can significantly impact the typing or gaming experience. The EMO's shorter travel distance makes it ideal for those seeking quicker response times, as seen in gaming keyboards. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray's longer travel distance provides a more satisfying depth to key presses, which some users may prefer for typing tasks. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming 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 SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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 linear switch offers a clean and clacky typing experience, enhancing the overall auditory feedback during use. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch provides a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, creating a deeper and more satisfying tone when pressed. It should be noted that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by external factors such as the keyboard's case material and keycap selection.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the HMX EMO linear switch provides a lively and bouncy typing sensation with a light 46g bottom-out force, offering an effortless and smooth keystroke experience. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch delivers a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches fall within a comfortable middle-ground zone, making them suitable for a wide range of users.
In conclusion, the HMX EMO linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the EMO offers a more lively and clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, the Polaris Gray provides a deeper, thocky sound profile and a polished typing experience. Depending on personal preference and the desired typing experience, users can choose between these switches to achieve similar satisfactory results based on their specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the HMX EMO linear switch or the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a feather-light bottom-out force and a lively, clacky feel, then the HMX EMO switch would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier typing experience with a clean, clacky sound profile and a bouncy feel, then the Polaris Gray switch may be more suitable. Remember to consider factors such as sound and feel characteristics when making your decision to ensure that you choose the switch that best fits your typing needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so choose wisely based on your individual preferences.
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