HMX EMO vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, it's crucial to consider your typing preferences and the overall typing experience you're looking for. On one hand, the HMX EMO linear switch offers a light 46g bottom-out force, providing a lively and clacky typing feel that is both satisfying and smooth. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a bouncy and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is known for its medium-high level of tactility, delivered by its long, two-staged spring. Typing on these switches results in deep, resonating thocks, perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, we see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffness and clarity. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it well-suited for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, the EMO features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, emphasizing a clear and resonant sound quality similar to the top housing but without the added sound absorption properties of nylon.
Despite their differences in bottom housing material, both the HMX EMO and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring aim to provide a high-quality typing experience through their carefully selected housing materials. The EMO prioritizes a balance between a sharper top housing sound and a deeper bottom housing sound, offering a varied typing experience depending on the keypress. Meanwhile, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring maintains a consistent, crisp sound profile throughout the switch, thanks to its use of polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings. These differences in approach demonstrate how variations in housing materials can affect the overall sound and feel of a switch.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring showcase the importance of material choice in keyboard switches. While both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, their differing choices for the bottom housing result in unique sound profiles. The EMO's combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a dynamic typing experience with varying sound depths, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's consistent use of polycarbonate delivers a uniform and crisp sound quality. Ultimately, whether the top and bottom housings are the same or different, the housing material plays a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch reveals some key differences. The EMO switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it a more nimble option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch boasts a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile typing feel. This makes the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch a better choice for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, those who prefer a lighter typing experience would lean towards the HMX EMO switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke would opt for the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the EMO. In terms of preference, gamers may lean towards the EMO with its shorter travel distance for faster response times, while those who prefer a more tactile and deep press may opt for the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Both switches offer different travel distances which cater to individual preferences, with the EMO being shorter and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring being longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance in a switch.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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 and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offer different auditory experiences. The EMO switch is known for its clacky and lively sound, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch produces deep, resonating thocks. The EMO switch may provide a sharper and more percussive sound, while the Shadow switch offers a high-pitched and crisp sound profile. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO switch and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch also have distinct characteristics. The EMO switch is praised for its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, delivering an effortless and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow switch is described as sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. This means that the Shadow switch offers a strong and crisp tactile bump, with a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The longer, two-staged spring in the Shadow switch also adds to the snappy and responsive typing experience.
Overall, while the HMX EMO linear switch and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer different sound and feel qualities, both provide unique and satisfying typing experiences. If you prefer a livelier and clacky sound with a feather-light feel, the EMO switch may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you seek a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and deep thocks, the Shadow switch would be a suitable choice. Keep in mind that personal preference plays a significant role in selecting the right switch for your typing needs, so be sure to consider your own typing style and preferences when choosing between these two switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the HMX EMO linear switch or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a light, bouncy typing experience with a feather-light bottom-out force, then the EMO switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy the sound of deep, resonating thocks while typing, then the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch may be more suited to your preferences. Consider the feel and sound profiles described for each switch to make an informed decision that enhances your overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on what characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
