HMX EMO vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX EMO and the Huano Sakura present two appealing options for enthusiasts who prefer linear switches. The HMX EMO switch is celebrated for its lively, clacky feel and feather-light 46g bottom-out force, allowing for an incredibly effortless and bouncy typing experience that's both satisfying and smooth, especially favored by those who appreciate a more tactile feedback without the click. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura switch is designed for extended typing sessions, offering a similarly feather-light touch but with medium acoustics, making it a great choice for those who work long hours at their keyboards without the distraction of overly pronounced sound. Both switches champion light actuation forces, yet they cater to distinct preferences in feedback and noise level, setting the stage for different typing experiences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the top housings of the HMX EMO and Huano Sakura switches, the materials used highlight distinct auditory qualities and aesthetic characteristics. The EMO employs polycarbonate for its top housing, known for creating a sharp, high-pitched sound profile that offers clarity and resonance. This attribute is partly due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the crisper sound it produces. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency is a major advantage for RGB enthusiasts, allowing light to diffuse through the housing, creating vibrant lighting effects. In contrast, the Sakura utilizes POK, or polyketone, which is celebrated for its slick feel and impressive durability—14 times stronger against wear than POM, complementing its smooth typing experience. While the sound profiles differ, with EMO leaning towards brightness and Sakura leaning towards smoothness, the choice of top housing material inevitably influences how sound and aesthetics play out in each switch's performance.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the HMX EMO and the Huano Sakura utilize nylon—a classic material that provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. The similarities end there, as both switches leverage nylon's inherent softness, which acts to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. This results in a duller, rounder acoustic experience during keypresses, making them feel more satisfying for users who enjoy a subdued auditory feedback while typing. Despite the variation in top housing materials, the emulation of the deeper sound between these switches stems from their identical choice of nylon for the bottom housing, indicating that users will experience comparable sound profiles at the bottom of each keypress.
Overall, the interplay between the different materials in the top and bottom housings of the HMX EMO and Huano Sakura switches illustrates how the distinct characteristics of each material contribute to their sound and feel. The EMO’s polycarbonate top benefits RGB lighting and sharp sound, while its nylon base provides the familiar full-bodied response. Meanwhile, the Sakura’s POK top delivers a smooth and strong performance paired with the same nylon bottom, which underscores the importance of material synergy in crafting switch experiences. Consequently, while the two switches may present different auditory and aesthetic qualities, the combined contributions of their housing materials allow users to appreciate the nuanced variations within a cohesive design framework.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, both are categorized as light switches, but they exhibit subtle differences. The EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Sakura offers a slightly lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This indicates that the Sakura may provide an even lighter touch when initiating keystrokes, which could be advantageous for those looking to type for extended periods or during long gaming sessions. Conversely, the EMO’s heavier actuation force might appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience. Both switches have comparable bottom out forces, allowing them to deliver similar tactile feedback when pressed fully down. Overall, if you prefer a lighter feel, the Huano Sakura would be the more suitable option, while the HMX EMO might be favored by those who prefer a slightly stronger push.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, the EMO features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Sakura offers a slightly longer distance at 3.6 mm. This difference, albeit small, makes the EMO the shorter option and the Sakura the longer one. If you're seeking a quicker response time for gaming, the EMO's shorter travel distance may suit your needs better. Conversely, if you prefer a more pronounced depth when pressing down on a key, the Sakura's longer travel distance might provide a more satisfying tactile experience. Overall, your choice will largely depend on whether you value responsiveness or a heartier feel while typing.
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 Huano Sakura comes in at $3.50 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 switch delivers a lively, clacky auditory profile that can add a bit of personality to your typing experience. This sound is complemented by its exceptional factory lubrication, which helps reduce any unwanted noise while still maintaining a satisfying acoustic feedback with every keystroke. In contrast, the Huano Sakura switch has a more moderate sound level, characterized by medium acoustics that provide a pleasant typing environment without being too overwhelming. This makes the Sakura suitable for longer typing sessions, as it balances expressiveness with a level of discretion, reducing fatigue that might come from louder switches.
Regarding feel, the EMO switch shines with a remarkably bouncy and effortless typing experience, marked by its feather-light 46g bottom-out force. This contributes to a lively and engaging tactile sensation that many users find incredibly satisfying. On the other hand, the Sakura switch is also designed with a feather-light touch, which allows for smooth and rapid keystrokes, but it leans more towards comfort during extended typing rather than the dynamic feedback found in the EMO. While both switches offer a light typing experience, the EMO provides a more spirited bounce, while the Sakura is geared towards consistent, fatigue-free use.
In conclusion, both the HMX EMO and Huano Sakura switches cater to users who appreciate a light touch during typing, though they differ in sound and tactile feedback. The EMO's lively clack and bouncy feel make it a great choice for those who enjoy dynamic keystrokes, while the Sakura's moderate acoustics and smoothness support longer typing sessions with comfort in mind. Depending on your preferences, either switch can deliver a satisfying experience, but if you're seeking pronounced auditory feedback and a more dynamic feel, the EMO is likely to stand out. Conversely, if you prioritize comfort and a more subtle sound for extensive typing, the Sakura could be your ideal match.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you're looking for an exceptionally lively typing experience that combines a clacky feel with an effortless touch, then the EMO switch is likely your best bet. Its 46g bottom-out force and smooth, factory-lubed finish make it ideal for those who enjoy a bouncy, satisfying feedback while typing, perfect for both gaming and fast-paced typing. On the other hand, if you prefer something a bit more subtle with medium acoustics and are focused on comfort during extensive typing sessions, the Sakura switch, featuring a slightly lighter 45g bottom-out force, provides a softer and more muted experience. Its smoothness and comfort make it suitable for long hours of work without causing finger fatigue. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you favor a more tactile, lively sensation or a gentle, quiet typing experience for prolonged use.
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