HMX EMO vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The HMX EMO switch is known for its lively and clacky feel, offering a feather-light 46g bottom-out force that provides a bouncy and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda switch is recognized for its light to medium amount of tactility, producing a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. While the EMO switch is categorized as a tactile switch, the Red Panda switch falls under the categories of thocky and mild. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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 HMX EMO and Outemu Red Panda both feature polycarbonate top housings, which produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in housings is ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting due to its translucency. This material is known for being relatively stiff, resulting in a clear and resonant sound profile. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it a popular choice for switch housings.
In contrast, the nylon bottom housings of both the HMX EMO and Outemu Red Panda provide a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is considered a classic switch housing material, known for its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. As a softer plastic, nylon creates a duller and rounder sound profile, offering a different typing experience compared to polycarbonate top housings. While the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch.
Overall, while both the HMX EMO and Outemu Red Panda use polycarbonate top housings, they differentiate themselves with their nylon bottom housings. Despite the differences in the bottom housing material, both switches offer unique sound profiles with their housing combinations. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings provide a diverse typing experience, with the EMO emphasizing a clear and resonant sound while the Red Panda focuses on creating a deeper and fuller sound profile.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is evident that the EMO is the lighter option with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams. On the other hand, the Red Panda is the heavier choice with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the EMO offers a lighter typing experience, ideal for those looking for a more delicate touch while typing for extended periods. In contrast, the Red Panda provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Both switches require a certain amount of force to actuate and bottom out, providing users with a tactile feedback that suits their typing preferences. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that have become popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The EMO switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch's shorter travel distance could be favored by those who prioritize quick and effortless keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and the desired typing 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 Outemu Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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 its lively and clacky sound with a feather-light bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offers a thocky sound, which is deep, rich, and satisfying. Both switches provide a unique auditory experience, with the EMO having a bouncy and smooth sound, while the Red Panda offers a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound.
In terms of feel, the HMX EMO linear switch provides a lively and satisfying typing experience with a 46g bottom-out force. The Red Panda tactile switch, on the other hand, offers a mild tactile bump that provides a gentle typing experience suitable for most users. While the EMO switch delivers an effortless and bouncy feel, the Red Panda switch falls in a safe middle-ground zone with its approachable qualities.
Overall, the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. Depending on individual preferences, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique characteristics. Whether you prefer the lively and clacky feel of the EMO switch or the mild tactility of the Red Panda switch, you can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a lively, clacky feel with a light bottom-out force, the EMO might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light-medium amount of tactility with a bassier and clackier sound, along with a medium bottom-out force, then the Red Panda could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the feel and sound profile that best suits your typing style and personal preference.
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