HMX EMO vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves comparing different options to determine which best suits their typing style and preferences. The HMX EMO switch stands out with its lively, clacky feel and an impressively light 46g bottom-out force, offering a bouncy, polished experience that makes typing both satisfying and effortless. Meanwhile, the Bsun Tomcat switch takes a slightly different approach, featuring Ly stems that deliver an exceptionally smooth typing experience, complemented by a resonant sound profile that many users find appealing. While the EMO is known for its high-pitched feedback and ease of pressing, the Tomcat prioritizes smoothness and resonance in its actuation. Both switches cater to distinct preferences, with the EMO appealing to those who enjoy a more tactile and active feel, and the Tomcat attracting users who seek a seamless and quiet typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX EMO Linear

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$3.49

$2.79 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the HMX EMO and the Bsun Tomcat share notable similarities, particularly in the type of plastics used for their top and bottom housings. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stems from polycarbonate's stiffness, allowing for a clear resonance that enhances auditory feedback when typing. Furthermore, polycarbonate's translucency makes it an excellent choice for RGB lighting applications, as both switches are likely designed with aesthetics in mind. Consequently, users can expect similar visual effects alongside comparable sound quality due to the inherent properties of the polycarbonate material in the top housing.

Conversely, the bottom housings of the HMX EMO and the Bsun Tomcat both utilize nylon, a traditional yet widely valued material in keyboard switches. The nylon bottom housing significantly dampens sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience when striking the keys. Its softer composition stands in contrast to the rigid polycarbonate, allowing for a more subdued and rounded sound profile that affects the bottom-out noise and feel of the switch. While the top housing accentuates higher frequencies, the nylon bottom housing mitigates them, effectively shaping the overall sound and tactile feedback of each switch during typing.

Overall, the EMO and the Tomcat demonstrate a balanced interplay between their respective materials, which ultimately leads to a harmonious typing experience. Users will appreciate the combination of the crisper sound from the polycarbonate top and the fuller, richer sound from the nylon bottom. Although the materials are the same in essence, their differing acoustic properties lead to a dynamic sound profile that highlights the strengths of both materials. Whether a user favors the clarity of the polycarbonate or the warmth of the nylon, both switches promise a unique and satisfying soundscape, with high-quality audible feedback and visual appeal for RGB enthusiasts.

Weight

The HMX EMO linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch exhibit differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to varying preferences among users. The EMO has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it a suitable option for those seeking extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Tomcat's actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 54 grams classify it as medium-light, offering a slightly more substantial feel. This heavier resistance might appeal to users who prefer a firmer push during their typing experience. While both switches can provide satisfying performance, the EMO's lighter weights make it more appealing for prolonged use, whereas the Tomcat's heavier forces deliver a more robust keystroke feel. Overall, if someone were to choose a switch based on these specifications, they would likely experience a more tactile journey with the Tomcat, while the EMO would enable longer, fatigue-free periods of use.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, we find the EMO has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Tomcat measures slightly longer at 3.6 mm. This makes the HMX EMO the shorter option, offering a travel distance that might appeal more to gamers seeking rapid response times. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat's longer travel distance may be favored by those who appreciate a deeper, more tactile experience when typing or gaming. Thus, depending on personal preference, whether for responsiveness or a more pronounced key press, users can make an informed choice based on the subtle difference between the two switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When considering the sound profile of the HMX EMO linear switch, it is characterized by a high-pitched sound that produces a sharp and crisp auditory feedback when pressed. This makes it a suitable choice for users who prefer brighter sounds over deeper, bassy tones. In contrast, the specific sound characteristics of the Bsun Tomcat linear switch are not detailed, but it is noted that it has a resonant sound profile. This suggests that while the Tomcat may not be as high-pitched as the EMO, it could offer a fuller and more engaging sound experience, potentially appealing to different preferences depending on the keyboard build and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the HMX EMO switch is lauded for its bouncy character, offering a spring-like feedback that contributes to a lively typing experience. The factory lubrication enhances this feeling by providing a polished surface, significantly reducing friction and offering a smooth key travel. It is designed for comfort, requiring minimal force to activate and thereby reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The feel of the Bsun Tomcat switch, however, is not clearly defined in the available information, leaving its tactile qualities uncertain. Should it match or parallel the fluidity anticipated from its Ly stems, one can expect a similarly smooth typing experience, albeit specific tactile feedback remains unknown.

In conclusion, while the HMX EMO linear switch delivers a high-pitched sound and a lively, polished feel that enhances typing comfort, the Bsun Tomcat switch promises a resonant sound profile and potentially smooth typing experience. They cater to slightly different auditory preferences, with the EMO leaning towards crispness, while the Tomcat may offer a richer tone. For those seeking a light and effortless touch while typing, the EMO is a clear choice, but if the Tomcat matches its anticipated smoothness, it could equally present an engaging alternative. Ultimately, choosing between them will depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback during typing sessions.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a light, bouncy feel with a lively and clacky sound, the EMO switch would definitely be your best bet. Its feather-light 46g bottom-out force allows for an effortless and smooth typing experience, making it ideal for longer typing sessions where comfort is paramount. On the other hand, if you desire a more balanced approach with a medium-light bottom-out force of 54 grams, the Tomcat switch may suit you better. It offers a smooth, resonant sound profile coupled with a satisfying tactile experience, making it a great choice for both gaming and typing. In essence, if you prioritize ease of use and a fun, lively feedback, go with the HMX EMO; however, if you seek a more refined and consistent typing experience, the Bsun Tomcat is the way to go.

Mentioned in this article

HMX EMO Linear

$3.49

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more