HMX EMO vs. Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, each option can greatly influence your typing experience, and two popular contenders are the HMX EMO and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie. The HMX EMO is celebrated for its lively, clacky feel, characterized by a feather-light 46g bottom-out force that allows for an effortless and bouncy typing experience. Its exceptional factory lubrication enhances smoothness, making it a favorite among those who prioritize a tactile yet soft feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie boasts a medium-weight all-POM design, known for delivering a satisfying thocky sound profile while maintaining exceptional smoothness, effectively combining both performance and affordability. Each switch has its unique appeal: the EMO excels in providing a lighter, more playful typing experience, while the Sea Salt Smoothie offers a richer auditory feedback and a solid overall feel. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX EMO and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, the housing materials significantly influence their overall sound profiles and tactile sensations. The EMO features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper and crisper sound due to its rigidity. This results in a sound that resonates more clearly, making it appealing for users who enjoy an audible feedback as they type. The translucence of the polycarbonate also allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switch. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie utilizes a POM top housing, which leans towards a deeper and more muted sound profile. This difference provides a distinct auditory experience, especially in the release phase of a keystroke, where the qualities of the top housing tend to shine.
The bottom housing of both switches also plays a crucial role in defining their sound character. The HMX EMO employs a nylon bottom housing, which is considered a classic material that contributes to a fuller and deeper sound profile. Nylon, being softer, absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, creating a rounder and more cushioned typing experience. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Smoothie features a POM bottom housing, which, like its top counterpart, produces a unique and pleasant sound that remains on the muted side. Both switches, while differing in materials, share a commonality in that they both leverage the sound-dampening qualities of their respective bottom housings, allowing users to enjoy a rich yet subtle auditory feedback.
Overall, while the HMX EMO and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie have contrasting sound profiles attributed to their different top housing materials, the underlying materials used for the bottom housing contribute to a nuanced typing experience that retains certain audio qualities across both switches. The EMO’s nylon bottom provides a full-bodied sound that contrasts with the Sea Salt Smoothie's POM bottom, which additionally creates a muted effect. Despite the differences, both switches can yield enjoyable typing experiences with their respective profiles, meaning users can find satisfaction in either option, depending on their personal preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, notable differences can be found in their actuation forces. The EMO features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it ideal for users who favor prolonged typing sessions or gaming with less fatigue. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie has a heavier actuation force of 48 grams, which may provide a more substantial feel but could lead to quicker hand fatigue for some users. The bottom out force of the EMO is 46 grams, which is also considered light. However, the bottom out force for the Sea Salt Smoothie remains unknown, leaving us unable to thoroughly compare this aspect. Overall, for those who prefer a lighter switch for comfort, the EMO would be the better choice, while users seeking a sturdier feel might opt for the heavier actuation force of the Sea Salt Smoothie.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, it's evident that the EMO has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Sea Salt Smoothie features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. For users seeking quicker response times, the EMO's shorter distance may be more appealing, as it allows for faster actuation, especially beneficial in gaming contexts. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Smoothie's 3.7 mm travel distance provides a bit more depth, which some users may find more satisfying and less abrupt. Therefore, if you prefer a more responsive experience, the HMX EMO would be the better choice; however, if you value a heartier feel, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie would be preferable.
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 Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Salt Smoothie for $2.70.
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 switch is characterized by a lively, clacky auditory profile that enhances the typing experience with its responsive feedback. This contrasts with the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, which boasts a thocky sound profile that imparts a deeper, more resonant quality to each keystroke. Both switches' sounds may vary based on the keyboard construction and keycap materials used, but generally, the EMO provides a sharper, more incisive sound, while the Sea Salt Smoothie offers a more muffled and hearty tone.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO switch provides a lively and bouncy typing experience thanks to its feather-light 46g bottom-out force. This makes for an effortless actuation that can be very appealing for fast typists or gamers. In contrast, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, with its medium weight, offers a balanced typing resistance that many users find satisfying for long sessions, delivering a smooth yet substantial feel that ensures each keystroke is purposeful and rewarding. While both switches offer smoothness, the EMO leans towards a more dynamic experience, whereas the Smoothie emphasizes a controlled and robust feel.
In summary, while the HMX EMO and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switches differ in their auditory and tactile qualities, they each provide unique and enjoyable typing experiences. The EMO's clackiness and feather-light feedback cater to those seeking a vibrant feel, while the Smoothie's thock and medium weight appeal to those who prefer a steady and grounded typing sensation. Overall, both switches are excellent choices, though they excel in different aspects, allowing users to select a switch that best fits their personal style and typing preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, your choice will ultimately depend on your typing preferences and what you find most satisfying in a switch. If you prefer a light actuation and a bouncy, lively feel, the EMO, with its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, is likely the better option for you. Its factory-lubed design enhances the typing experience by delivering a smooth and effortless action along with a clacky sound profile that adds to the overall enjoyment. This switch is particularly suited for fast typists who appreciate a spirited response.
On the other hand, if you favor a slightly more medium-weight switch that offers a unique thocky sound profile, then the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie might be more to your liking. Though the exact bottom-out force is unavailable, the Smoothie's all-POM construction gives it a durable feel while maintaining exceptional smoothness. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a slightly denser feedback while typing and prefer a quieter but still engaging auditory experience.
Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a light and lively feel or a more substantial, thocky sound with a smooth action. Consider what matters most in your typing experience to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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