HMX EMO vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX EMO linear switch to the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, a clear distinction can be made between the two. The HMX EMO switch is renowned for its lively and clacky feel, paired with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, offering an effortless and bouncy typing experience. In contrast, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch boasts a shorter activation and long pole stem, providing a great typing feel and a creamy sound signature. While the EMO switch is best known for its satisfying and smooth typing experience, the Splash Brothers switch stands out with its neutral, mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished characteristics. 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
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Extended long spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX EMO and Jwick Splash Brothers use polycarbonate for their top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting. Meanwhile, the nylon bottom housing of both switches creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and ability to absorb more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound that complements the characteristics of the polycarbonate top housing.
Despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing to achieve similar sound profiles, the differences lie in their bottom housing materials. The EMO's nylon bottom housing lends itself to a deeper and fuller typing experience, while the Splash Brothers's nylon bottom housing provides a similar effect. However, the split qualities between the top and bottom housings mean that the bottom-out sound and feel will be more influenced by the bottom housing, while the sound when letting go of a key will be more impacted by the top housing.
In conclusion, while both the HMX EMO and Jwick Splash Brothers share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing to achieve a sharp and clear sound profile, the differences in their nylon bottom housing materials distinguish their typing experiences. Whether one prefers a deeper and fuller sound or a crisper sound with a clear resonance, the choice between these switches may come down to the specific typing experience desired based on the bottom housing material used.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it is evident that the EMO is lighter in both aspects. The actuation force of the EMO is 40 grams, while the Splash Brothers has an unknown actuation force. The bottom out force of the EMO is 46 grams, whereas the Splash Brothers has a bottom out force of 48 grams. Both switches are considered light in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. This means that users who prefer a lighter typing experience may find both switches suitable for longer periods of typing or gaming. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, they may opt for switches with heavier forces. Overall, the EMO and Splash Brothers switches offer different levels of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to various preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and uniform typing experience in terms of keypress depth. This makes them both suitable choices for users looking for a specific travel distance when typing. Whether you choose the HMX EMO or the Jwick Splash Brothers, you can expect similar results when it comes to keypress depth.
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 Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 per 10 switches.
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 offers a lively and clacky sound profile, which can be enhanced or altered by your choice of keyboard and keycaps. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch provides a creamy sound signature that adds a touch of elegance to your typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that can cater to different preferences, whether you seek a more vibrant or subdued typing noise.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the HMX EMO switch is praised for its bouncy and effortless typing experience, thanks to its feather-light 46g bottom-out force and thorough factory-lubing. In contrast, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch offers a mild and snappy feel, providing a gentle yet responsive typing sensation that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the long pole stem of the Splash Brothers switch contributes to its lively and polished typing experience.
Overall, both the HMX EMO and Jwick Splash Brothers linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the EMO switch provides a more clacky and bouncy typing experience, the Splash Brothers switch offers a creamy sound signature and a snappy feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing sound, feel, and overall typing experience. If you prefer a more dynamic and lively typing experience, the HMX EMO switch may be the way to go, whereas the Jwick Splash Brothers switch may appeal to those seeking a more refined and elegant typing sensation.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HMX EMO linear switch or the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a feather-light 46g bottom-out force and a bouncy, clacky typing experience, the EMO switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a creamy sound signature, shorter activation, and a snappy, polished typing feel, the Splash Brothers switch might be more to your liking. Consider your own preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing experience when making your decision between these two excellent linear switches.
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