HMX EMO vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX EMO and the HMX Sunset Gleam both present compelling options for enthusiasts seeking a linear switch experience. The HMX EMO is celebrated for its lively and clacky feel, featuring a feather-light 46g bottom-out force that provides an effortlessly bouncy typing experience; its factory-lubed design enhances the overall smoothness, making it a top choice for those who desire a combination of responsiveness and satisfaction in every keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, offers a harmonious blend of materials that results in a subtle top-out feel while maintaining that satisfying clack associated with HMX switches. This model also benefits from excellent factory lubrication that assures a smooth actuation. Ultimately, while both switches deliver distinct benefits tailored to different types of typists, choosing between them will depend on your personal preference for feedback, weight, and the overall typing experience. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX EMO and HMX Sunset Gleam both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which plays a significant role in shaping the overall sound profile of the switches. Polycarbonate's stiffer nature results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper audio experience, amplifying the clarity and resonance when the switches are activated. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making these switches particularly appealing for setups that incorporate lighting. Since both the EMO and Sunset Gleam utilize this same material for their top housing, users can expect similar auditory and aesthetic outcomes, reinforcing the versatility and effectiveness of polycarbonate in switch design.
In contrast, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housing, which contributes a distinctly different sound signature. Nylon is characterized by its relatively softer composition, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and duller acoustic experience when typing. The combination of a polycarbonate top and a nylon bottom in both switches provides a balanced sound profile, with the top housing delivering clarity and the bottom housing offering depth. Consequently, regardless of the specific model, the user experience remains consistent, as both electric switch designs capitalize on the contrasting yet complementary properties of these materials.
Ultimately, while the HMX EMO and HMX Sunset Gleam share similarities in their top and bottom housing materials, their sound profiles produce distinctive results that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top provides a crisp and resonant high-end, while the nylon bottom creates a soothing, rounded low-end sound. The synergy between these two materials allows users to enjoy a rich typing experience that blends clarity with depth. Whether choosing the EMO or Sunset Gleam, users can anticipate a well-rounded auditory performance, blending the best qualities that polycarbonate and nylon bring to the table.
Weight
When comparing the HMX EMO linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, both exhibit relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for users who prefer a softer typing experience. The EMO has a slightly lower actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Sunset Gleam has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means the EMO is the lighter of the two switches, requiring less force to trigger a keystroke, which can be advantageous for extended typing sessions or gaming. The Sunset Gleam, while still considered light, offers a slightly heavier push at both actuation and bottom out forces, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Overall, although both switches are on the lighter side, the EMO provides a gentler experience, whereas the Sunset Gleam presents a marginally firmer option.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them identical in this aspect. Since their travel distances are the same, users can expect a comparable tactile experience when pressing down on the keys of either switch. This uniformity in travel distance means that both switches will deliver similar results in terms of how far the key moves when activated, leading to a consistent feel throughout either option.
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 Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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 recognized for its lively and clacky noise that adds a playful character to the typing experience. This engaged auditory feedback can make each keystroke feel more pronounced and enjoyable. Meanwhile, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, produces a similar subtle top-out sound accompanied by a satisfying clack. The combination of these qualities contributes to a gratifying auditory environment when typing, making both switches ideal for users who appreciate a bit of a sound profile in their keyboard experience. It's important to note, however, that the overall sound for both switches can be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Regarding feel, the EMO switch is lauded for its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, resulting in a remarkably effortless and bouncy typing sensation. This makes it suitable for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam provides a different type of satisfaction with its smooth and lightweight characteristics that also encourages a seamless typing experience. While the feel may differ slightly between the two due to their specific design nuances, both switches promise a similarly enjoyable tactile response, making them excellent choices for those who prioritize comfort along with smoothness.
Overall, both the HMX EMO and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches offer an enjoyable typing experience characterized by their top-notch lubrication and responsive feedback. With the EMO's lively sound and feather-light feel compared to the Sunset Gleam's more subtle auditory profile and satisfying clack, users can expect slight variations in auditory and tactile sensations while still enjoying a smooth, comfortable experience. Ultimately, personal preference will play a significant role in choosing between these two, but either switch will deliver an engaging typing performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, your personal preferences and typing habits play a crucial role. If you enjoy a lively typing experience with a feather-light actuation and a distinct clacky feel that provides effortless feedback, the EMO is likely your best choice. Its 46g bottom-out force makes it ideal for those who prefer quicker, more responsive keystrokes, perfect for fast typists or gamers who appreciate immediate engagement. On the other hand, if you lean towards a more balanced and slightly firmer feel with a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack, the Sunset Gleam might be more suitable for you. With its 48g bottom-out force, it offers a tad more resistance, which can benefit individuals who desire a more deliberate typing action, providing excellent feedback without being overly heavy. Ultimately, both switches feature excellent factory lubrication, so you can expect smooth performance with either choice; your decision should revolve around whether you value that extra lightness and bounce of the EMO or the balanced sturdiness of the Sunset Gleam.
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