HMX EMO vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX EMO and Jwick Taro are two popular options to consider. The HMX EMO is a linear switch, known for its lively and clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. This switch offers an effortless and bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro is a tactile switch, providing a cozy typing experience with a snappy, medium level of tactility and crisp clacks. While the EMO is categorized as a linear switch, the Taro falls under categories such as neutral, buttery, and stepped. Both switches have unique characteristics that make them appealing choices for different preferences. However, let's dive deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX EMO and Jwick Taro both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This material is particularly useful for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the light to shine through. On the other hand, the EMO and Taro differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the EMO utilizing nylon and the Taro also opting for nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing, the EMO and Taro may have distinct sound profiles due to their differing bottom housing materials. The split of housing materials between the top and bottom can affect the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feeling upon key press, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. As a result, users may experience differences in typing experience based on the combination of housing materials used in each switch.
In conclusion, while the HMX EMO and Jwick Taro share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing and nylon for their bottom housing, the resulting sound profiles may vary slightly due to the properties of the different housing materials. Polycarbonate creates a clearer and more resonant sound, ideal for RGB lighting effects, while nylon produces a deeper and fuller sound with a duller quality. The distribution of these materials in the top and bottom housing also affects the typing experience, influencing the sound and feel when pressing and releasing keys.
Weight
The HMX EMO linear switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Jwick Taro tactile switch. The EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Taro has a bottom out force of 67 grams, with the actuation force unknown. The EMO switch is ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Taro switch is better suited for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a heavier force required for bottoming out. Both switches offer different typing experiences, with the EMO providing a lighter touch and the Taro offering a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0mm standard. Gamers may prefer the EMO switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can lead to faster response times during gameplay. On the other hand, the Taro switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a more substantial keypress that some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and keypress feel.
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 Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 linear switch is known for delivering a lively and clacky typing experience with crisp and acute clacks, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch offers a cozy typing experience with a medium-level of tactility. The sound produced by both switches will be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the HMX EMO linear switch offers a bouncy and satisfying typing experience with a feather-light bottom-out force, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch provides a buttery and stepped keystroke sensation. The EMO switch is exceptionally factory-lubed for a smooth typing experience, while the Taro switch gives a more fluid and uniform typing sensation with a mild tactile bump.
Overall, both the HMX EMO linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch provide unique and enjoyable typing experiences. Whether you prefer a lively and clacky feel with the EMO switch or a cozy and snappy tactility with the Taro switch, both switches offer quality performance. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users can expect similar levels of satisfaction and comfort from either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a light, bouncy feel with a lower bottom-out force, the EMO may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a snappy feel and a cozy typing experience, the Taro could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, bottom-out force, and sound profile. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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