HMX EMO vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference, particularly between the playful HMX EMO linear switch and the refined Gazzew U4 tactile switch. The EMO is designed for those who crave a lively, clacky feel, featuring a feather-light 46g bottom-out force that promises an effortless and satisfying typing experience. Its polished and bouncy characteristics make it an excellent choice for users who prioritize speed and fluidity in their typing. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 offers a muted and discreet typing experience, highlighted by a sharp tactile bump that delivers an exhilarating feedback while maintaining a whisper-quiet operation. The U4's plush bottom-out sensation adds a layer of comfort that tactile enthusiasts appreciate, making it ideal for office environments or situations where noise reduction is essential. Both switches cater to different typing preferences: the EMO for those seeking a spirited and engaging experience, and the U4 for users who favor subtlety and tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX EMO Linear

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$3.49

$2.79 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the Gazzew U4 switches, two distinct characteristics become apparent. The top housing of the EMO is made from polycarbonate, which is known for its stiffness and translucence. This choice enhances the clarity and brightness of the sound profile produced by the switch, particularly beneficial for RGB lighting applications due to its clear aesthetic. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 utilizes a proprietary blend of plastics, often referred to as "boba plastic," known for its softer properties. This results in a deeper, richer sound profile that contrasts with the sharper tones produced by the EMO’s polycarbonate housing, making the auditory experience distinctly unique between the two.

When looking at the bottom housings, both switches employ materials that aim to deliver a full-bodied sound. The EMO’s nylon bottom housing is the classic choice, known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller, more rounded audio profile. Similarly, the Gazzew U4’s proprietary blend, also characterized as "boba plastic," brings a rich and deep sound quality to the table. While both materials are softer than their top housing counterparts, the nylon in the EMO tends to deliver a more muted sound experience, while the U4’s boba plastic may enhance the richness of the sound, combining with its top housing to produce a cohesive auditory output that emphasizes depth.

Ultimately, the differing materials used in the top and bottom housings of the HMX EMO and Gazzew U4 contribute to their distinct sound profiles when pressed. The characteristics of each switch rely on how the hardness of the polycarbonate interacts with the softness of the nylon in the EMO, while the U4’s softer combination enhances the depth created by its proprietary blend. While they produce different auditory experiences due to their material choices, one could achieve a satisfactory overall result with either switch by carefully considering how the combination of housing materials influences sound during both the keypress and release phases. This ensures a tailored typing experience regardless of the choice between these two.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, notable differences emerge. The HMX EMO features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it suitable for extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, which provides a more substantial feel that some users might prefer for a tactile typing experience. This heavier resistance could be advantageous for those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback when typing or gaming. Overall, the EMO is clearly the lighter option, while the U4 falls into the medium category, delivering a distinctly different tactile experience based on user preference for actuation forces.

Travel distance

The HMX EMO linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch have differing travel distances, with the EMO at 3.5 mm and the U4 at 3.6 mm. While this difference is relatively small, it positions the U4 as the longer switch and the EMO as the shorter one. The slightly shorter travel distance of the EMO may appeal to gamers or users seeking faster response times, offering a more immediate pressing experience. Conversely, the U4, with its slightly deeper travel distance, may provide a more pronounced tactile feedback that some users prefer, especially for typing or leisurely gaming. Both switches, however, fall within relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, aligning with the current trend of shorter distances for enhanced responsiveness. For users who appreciate a balance between responsiveness and a satisfying depth, this subtle distinction could be the deciding factor.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX EMO switch produces a high-pitched, clacky auditory profile, perfect for those who appreciate an engaging and sharp typing sound. This high-end sound is crisp and lively, making it a great choice for users who prefer a more vibrant audio experience while they type. Conversely, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch features a muted sound profile that is whisper quiet, minimizing the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. Its low-pitched characteristics offer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, making it an excellent option for users in quieter environments. While the EMO captures attention with its lively sound, the U4 provides a more subdued experience, catering to different preferences in typing environments.

When it comes to feel, the EMO switches are known for their "bouncy" and polished nature, providing a lively typing experience that is enhanced by their feather-light actuation force of 46g. As these switches deliver a gentle rebound on each key press and showcase smooth travel thanks to their factory lubing, they create a fluid typing sensation that reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the U4 tactile switches feature a sharp tactile bump that offers high feedback intensity with each keystroke. While the U4 may lack the bounciness characteristic of the EMO, the distinct and exhilarating tactile feedback enhances precision during use. This contrast forms a balance between a widely energetic typing experience with the EMO, and a focused, tactile approach with the U4 for those preferring a more pronounced tactile sensation.

Ultimately, both the HMX EMO and Gazzew U4 switches cater to different preferences in typing experiences, embodying distinct sound profiles and tactile sensations. The EMO switches offer a lively and smooth typing experience complemented by their high-pitched and clacky sound, ideal for those who enjoy dynamic feedback and audio. In contrast, the U4 caters to users seeking a quieter, subtler touch with pronounced tactile feedback, suitable for quieter settings. Choosing between these two will largely depend on whether you prioritize an energetic auditory feedback or a more muted and tactile emphasis in your mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch should ultimately depend on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you favor a lively, engaging typing experience that feels effortless and responsive, the EMO is an excellent choice, especially due to its light 46g bottom-out force and bouncy feel. This switch will be particularly appealing if you enjoy a higher-pitched sound profile and a polished finish that enhances the overall smoothness while typing. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more pronounced tactile experience and a quieter environment, the Gazzew U4 is the switch for you. With its medium 62g bottom-out force, the U4 provides a sharp tactile bump coupled with a plush bottom-out sensation, making it ideal for those who like a robust feedback without the noise. Additionally, its muted and low-pitched sound profile ensures you can type without being disruptive, which can be a significant advantage in shared workspaces. Ultimately, by considering your typing style and sound preference, you can select the switch that elevates your mechanical keyboard experience to meet your unique demands.

Mentioned in this article

HMX EMO Linear

$3.49

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more