HMX EMO vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX EMO and SP-Star Duck offer two contrasting experiences that cater to different preferences. The HMX EMO switch provides a lively and clacky feel with a light 46g bottom-out force, making it effortless and bouncy to type on. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch offers a more subtle tactile experience with a clean and crispy sound profile. The EMO is best suited for those who enjoy a satisfying and smooth typing experience, while the Duck is perfect for those who prefer a gentle tactility. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX EMO and SP-Star Duck, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Due to polycarbonate's stiffness, it contributes to a more clear and resonant sound overall. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows for light to pass through and create a visually appealing aesthetic. While both switches share this similarity in their top housing material, they differ in the material used for the bottom housing.
The HMX EMO features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile for the EMO switch. In contrast, the SP-Star Duck utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, continuing the theme of a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile throughout the switch. This difference in bottom housing material impacts the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, while both the HMX EMO and SP-Star Duck share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, their choice of materials for the bottom housing results in distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The EMO's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the sharper sound produced by the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing. These differences highlight how the selection of housing materials can impact the overall performance and feel of a switch, showcasing the importance of material choice in keyboard design.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The EMO has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Duck which has an unknown actuation force. Additionally, the EMO has a lighter bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Duck has a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams. The EMO offers a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Duck provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, catering to users who prefer a stronger push feel. In this case, the EMO is the lighter option, while the Duck is heavier for those seeking a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the SP-Star Duck tactile switch. The EMO offers a quicker response time, making it a preferred choice for gamers who require faster key presses. On the other hand, the Duck provides a bit more depth when typing, which some users may find more comfortable for long typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and whether you prioritize speed or a more pronounced keypress feel. Both switches offer a different typing experience, so it's important to test them out to see which one suits your typing style best.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 offers a lively and clacky typing experience, while the SP-Star Duck switch provides a clean and crispy sound profile. The EMO switch may produce a more pronounced sound due to its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, while the Duck switch offers a more neutral sound profile that is suitable for various environments. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO switch delivers an effortless and bouncy typing experience, while the SP-Star Duck switch offers a more mild and gentle tactile feel. The EMO switch is described as providing a smooth and satisfying typing sensation, while the Duck switch is known for its approachable and buttery typing experience. Additionally, the Duck switch is noted for its polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the HMX EMO linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a livelier and clackier typing experience, the EMO switch may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more subtle and gentle typing feel, the Duck switch could be the better option. Both switches are expertly factory-lubed, ensuring a smooth and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a lively, clacky feel with a light touch and effortless typing experience, the EMO switch with its 46g bottom-out force may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, the Duck switch with its 58g bottom-out force and gentle tactility could be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. Choose the switch that best aligns with your desired typing experience to enhance your overall mechanical keyboard enjoyment.
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