HMX EMO vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and Dareu Sky V3 stand out as popular options to cater to different typing preferences. The HMX EMO switch is beloved for its lively and clacky feel, with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force that provides a bouncy and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switches are celebrated for their neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, offering a balance of comfort and precision. Whether you prefer the energetic responsiveness of the EMO or the subdued nature of the Sky V3, both switches have their own unique appeal. 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
40g
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
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX EMO and the Dareu Sky V3 feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to their stiffness. This material allows for a more resonant sound and is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. The use of polycarbonate in both switches ensures a consistent and vibrant sound experience, whether you are typing or gaming.
On the other hand, the EMO and the Sky V3 differ in their bottom housing material, with the EMO featuring a nylon bottom housing while the Sky V3 also uses polycarbonate. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound and leads to a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials can provide users with a varied typing experience, allowing for a mix of sharpness and depth in sound when using either switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the HMX EMO and the Dareu Sky V3 plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While they share a polycarbonate top housing for a clear and resonant sound, the difference in bottom housing materials adds a unique touch to their overall performance. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile with polycarbonate or a deeper sound with nylon, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience tailored to different user preferences.
Weight
The HMX EMO linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch both have an actuation force of 40 grams, making them equally light in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the HMX EMO requires 46 grams, providing a slightly heavier feel when pressing all the way down compared to the Dareu Sky V3, which has an unknown bottom out force. The HMX EMO may be preferred by those who prefer a little more resistance for a more substantial typing experience, while the Dareu Sky V3 may be better for those who like a consistently lighter feel throughout typing. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of weight, catering to users' preferences for typing and gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The EMO switch falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which is preferred by gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, the Sky V3 switch with its longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference 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 Dareu Sky V3 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V3 for $4.76.
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 provides a lively and clacky typing experience, while the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a subdued sound when pressed. This means that the EMO switch might have a more audible and vibrant typing sound, whereas the Sky V3 switch delivers a quieter and more understated typing experience. However, it's essential to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout, keycaps, and overall build quality.
Moving on to the feel, the HMX EMO linear switch is praised for its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing an effortless and bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is described as offering a mild typing experience, with a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. The EMO switch may offer a more pronounced tactile response and snappier actuation, while the Sky V3 switch provides a comfortable and accessible typing feel.
Overall, the HMX EMO linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch each have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a livelier and clackier typing experience with a lighter actuation force, the EMO switch may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile and a mild typing feel that is approachable to most users, the Sky V3 switch could be a better fit. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, consider the bottom out force and typing experience that best suits your preferences. If you prefer a light bottom-out force and a lively, clacky feel, the HMX EMO switch with its 46g force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a more neutral sound profile and a medium-light weight for a comfortable typing experience, the Dareu Sky V3 switch may better suit your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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