HMX EMO vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often debate between the HMX EMO and the HMX SU, both of which fall into the linear category, yet offer distinct typing experiences. The HMX EMO is celebrated for its lively, clacky feel and feather-light actuation with a 46g bottom-out force, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience without the resistance found in tactile switches. Users appreciate its exceptionally factory-lubed design, which further enhances the bounciness and satisfaction of every keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX SU brings a unique character with its full PA12 housing and a T5 stem, offering a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile that appeals to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. While both switches aim to provide a linear experience, the EMO leans towards a lighter, more responsive feel, while the SU focuses on a richer sound and robust build. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
T5
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX EMO and HMX SU switches exhibit distinct characteristics in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles and aesthetic appeal. The EMO features a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stiffer plastic resonates more clearly, making the EMO particularly suited for enthusiasts who appreciate a more vibrant auditory experience, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to polycarbonate's translucency. In contrast, the SU utilizes a nylon top housing, a classic material known for delivering a deeper, fuller sound. Nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and less piercing acoustic quality. This difference in top housing materials fundamentally alters the auditory signatures of the two switches, catering to differing player preferences for sound and lighting effects.
When we turn to the bottom housing, both the HMX EMO and SU share the same nylon material, which aids in achieving a fuller and deeper sound profile. This consistency in the bottom housing allows both switches to have a similar impact when bottoming out: they provide a more muted and rounded auditory feedback due to nylon's sound-absorbing properties. Thus, while the top housings of the EMO and SU lead to contrasting sound profiles, their shared bottom housing helps create a cohesive playing experience at the point of impact, resulting in a familiar feel and sound during actual typing or gaming sessions.
Ultimately, the differences in the top housings of the HMX EMO and SU create diverse auditory experiences, while the shared nylon bottom housing ensures consistency in deeper sound profiles. For users who enjoy the clarity and brightness offered by the EMO’s polycarbonate top yet appreciate the fullness of nylon, the choice between these two switches will hinge on the desired auditory experience during both actuation and release. If one prefers a sharper sound when releasing the keys, the EMO would be the choice, whereas the SU would appeal to those favoring a more rounded and muted tone throughout the keystroke.
Weight
When comparing the HMX EMO linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, notable differences exist in their actuation and bottom out forces. The EMO switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the SU switch features a marginally heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which appeals to those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing. Overall, while both switches are classified as light, the HMX EMO is the lighter option between the two, making it more suitable for users seeking a softer touch, while the HMX SU provides a slightly more resistant experience for users favoring a stronger keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, the EMO features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the SU has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the SU switch offers a marginally deeper feel when pressed compared to the EMO. Gamers might appreciate the shorter distance of the EMO for its quicker actuation and faster response times, which can enhance performance during gaming sessions. On the other hand, the SU switch, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial tactile feedback, appealing to users who prefer a less abrupt feel while typing or gaming. Consequently, individuals who favor a more responsive experience may opt for the EMO, whereas those who enjoy more hearty depth would likely choose the SU.
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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 is characterized by a lively and clacky auditory signature, making it very engaging and stimulating during use. This bright sound profile enhances the overall typing experience and can bring a certain joy to each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch offers a subtle yet comparatively deeper sound. This combination of a muted auditory experience with a richer tone can provide a more refined typing atmosphere, appealing to those who prefer a less intrusive sound while typing. It's important to recognize that the perceived sound of each switch can vary significantly based on the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
When considering feel, the HMX EMO switch stands out for its exceptionally light and bouncy touch, with a bottom-out force of only 46g. This makes for an effortless typing experience where each keystroke feels almost playful, thanks in part to the factory lubrication that enhances its smoothness. On the other hand, the HMX SU linear switch, while not specifically described in detail regarding its tactile feedback, features a PA12 housing and a T5 stem, which typically contribute to a more consistent and stable feel. Without specific metrics on the bottom-out force for the SU, it’s challenging to directly compare the tactile sensation, but the refined housing is likely to provide a satisfying experience nonetheless.
In conclusion, while the HMX EMO switch offers an invigoratingly clacky sound accompanied by a light, bouncy feel, the HMX SU linear switch provides a deeper auditory profile with a more stable touch due to its robust construction. If you're drawn to a lively typing experience, the EMO is a strong candidate, whereas the SU might suit those who prefer a subtle, refined notation with potentially more stability. Ultimately, both switches can deliver enjoyable typing experiences, and your choice may come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX EMO and HMX SU linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and what you prioritize in a typing experience. If you value a feather-light feel with a lively, clacky experience, then the HMX EMO switch is your best bet. Its 46g bottom-out force coupled with exceptional factory lubrication allows for an effortless, bouncy typing experience that many typists find satisfying and smooth, ideal for gamers and fast typists alike who enjoy a snappy response. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtle yet deeper sound profile with a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 50g, the HMX SU switch could be more appealing to you. Its robust PA12 housing and T5 stem contribute to a more stable feel, making it a great choice for those who appreciate a consistent keystroke and a sound signature that is less intrusive. In summary, the choice between the two comes down to whether you want a lively typing experience with the EMO or a more subdued, stable feel offered by the SU.
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