HMX EMO vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and Gateron Smoothie Silver both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX EMO switch is best known for its lively and clacky feel, with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force that provides a bouncy and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver stands out for its all-POM construction, short travel distance for fast actuation, thocky sound, smoothness, and feather-light touch. While the EMO switch may appeal to those who enjoy a satisfying and effortless typing experience, the Smoothie Silver switch may be preferred by those who prioritize speed and smoothness. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX EMO and Gateron Smoothie Silver switches both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, leading to distinct sound profiles. The EMO's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffness, ideal for RGB lighting with its translucent nature. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, offering a unique auditory experience. Both materials enhance the overall sound of the switches, but they cater to different preferences in terms of pitch and resonance.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the EMO's nylon material creates a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound profile, contributing to a satisfying typing experience. Similarly, the Smoothie Silver's POM bottom housing also produces a deep and muted sound, complementing the top housing's characteristics for a cohesive sound profile. Despite the different materials used, both switches offer a pleasant typing sound that is sure to enhance the user's overall satisfaction.
Ultimately, the choice between the HMX EMO and Gateron Smoothie Silver switches will come down to personal preference regarding sound profile. While the EMO focuses on a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing, the Smoothie Silver offers a unique deep and muted sound with its POM top housing. Both switches utilize materials in their bottom housings that create a fuller and deeper sound, highlighting the importance of considering all housing components when selecting a switch for a tailored typing experience. Whether it be the stiffer polycarbonate of the EMO or the softer POM of the Smoothie Silver, both switches offer quality and distinctive sound profiles that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, there are some notable differences. The EMO has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, providing a light and smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The lighter actuation force of the EMO makes it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the slightly heavier actuation force of the Smoothie Silver may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches offer different force profiles that cater to individual preferences, with the EMO being lighter and the Smoothie Silver potentially offering a slightly heavier feel.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers seeking faster response times. However, the slight difference of 0.1 mm may not be noticeable to most users. Ultimately, whether you choose the HMX EMO or the Gateron Smoothie Silver will depend on personal preference regarding the feel of the switch's travel distance. If you prefer a slightly deeper key press, the HMX EMO may be the better option. Conversely, if you prefer a slightly shallower feel, the Gateron Smoothie Silver would be the ideal choice. In the end, both switches offer a similar travel distance and will provide comparable results for most users.
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 Smoothie Silver has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie Silver for $2.60.
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 is known for its lively and clacky sound, providing a satisfying and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch offers a thocky sound with unparalleled smoothness, creating a unique typing experience. The sound produced by each switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard case and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the HMX EMO switch offers a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, resulting in a light and effortless typing experience. The factory-lubed EMO switch provides a smooth and satisfying feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch features a short travel distance, allowing for lightning-fast actuation. The feather-light touch of the Smoothie Silver switch adds to the overall smoothness of typing.
Overall, both the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the EMO switch provides a lively and bouncy typing experience with a clacky sound, the Smoothie Silver switch offers a thocky sound with lightning-fast actuation. Choosing between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Additionally, both switches are factory-lubed, ensuring a smooth and satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HMX EMO linear switch or the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your typing preferences. If you prefer a light, bouncy typing experience with a lively clacky feel, then the HMX EMO switch with its 46g bottom-out force and factory-lubed smoothness may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you favor lightning-fast actuation, a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch, then the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch with its all-POM construction and short travel distance might be more suitable. Consider your typing style and sound preferences to make an informed decision on which switch would best suit your needs.
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