HMX EMO vs. Everglide Sunset Yellow
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX EMO and the Everglide Sunset Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX EMO provides a lively and clacky typing experience with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, making it ideal for those who prefer a bouncy and effortless feel while typing. On the other hand, the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches offer a captivating sound profile reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding, with a rich and bassy sound that enhances the typing experience. Their medium-weight and distinct gliding feel make them suitable for a wide range of users. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
51g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
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
Single-staged lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the Everglide Sunset Yellow, we can see that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The EMO features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its sharp, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Sunset Yellow utilizes a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing of the EMO may provide a more vibrant and clear sound profile compared to the POM top housing of the Sunset Yellow.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the EMO utilizes a nylon material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer and more sound-absorbent nature. In contrast, the Sunset Yellow's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deeper sound profile, albeit with a relatively more muted quality. Both materials offer a unique typing experience and sound profile, with nylon providing a rounder sound and POM offering a pleasing depth to the sound.
Overall, while the HMX EMO and Everglide Sunset Yellow switches differ in their housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of the EMO may provide a sharper and clearer sound, while the POM top housing of the Sunset Yellow offers a deeper and more muted sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the EMO and the POM bottom housing of the Sunset Yellow both contribute to a fuller sound profile, with nylon offering a rounder sound and POM creating a unique depth. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, we can see that the EMO is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. The EMO requires 40 grams of force for actuation and 46 grams for bottom out, while the Sunset Yellow needs 43 grams to actuate and 51 grams to bottom out. Both switches provide a relatively light typing experience compared to heavier switches on the market, making them ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the Sunset Yellow offers a slightly firmer typing feel due to its slightly higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In this case, the Everglide Sunset Yellow switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the HMX EMO switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Sunset Yellow switch due to its shorter travel distance. However, those who prefer a deeper keypress may find the 3.5 mm travel distance of the HMX EMO switch more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Everglide Sunset Yellow comes in at $3.09 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX EMO switch offers a lively and clacky typing experience, while the Everglide Sunset Yellow switch provides a rich and bassy sound reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding. The EMO switch may have a lighter and more crisp sound compared to the deep and decadent sound of the Sunset Yellow switch. However, both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and the keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the HMX EMO switch provides a bouncy and satisfying typing experience with a feather-light bottom-out force of 46g, while the Everglide Sunset Yellow switch offers a smooth and buttery feel with a distinct gliding sensation. The EMO switch may have a more effortless and responsive feel due to its factory-lubed design, while the Sunset Yellow switch provides a frictionless and polished typing experience that minimizes resistance. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
In conclusion, both the HMX EMO linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel that can enhance the typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the EMO switch may appeal to those who prefer a lively and crisp sound with a bouncy feel, the Sunset Yellow switch caters to individuals seeking a rich and bassy sound with a smooth and buttery feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience, as both options provide unique characteristics that can elevate the overall mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, consider the specific qualities of each switch to best suit your preferences. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a bouncy typing experience with a clacky feel, the HMX EMO switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a richer and deeper sound profile during key presses, along with a smooth and buttery typing experience, the Everglide Sunset Yellow switch could be more aligned with your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to your personal typing style and preference for sound and feel.
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