HMX EMO vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the HMX EMO, a linear switch, and the Gazzew U4Tx, a tactile switch. The HMX EMO is known for its lively and clacky feel, with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing an effortless and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches offer a refined sound profile with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out sound. The sharp tactile bump of the U4Tx ensures a luxurious typing experience that is both acoustically pleasing and tactile. Both switches have their unique qualities, with the EMO offering a smooth and satisfying typing experience, while the U4Tx provides a balance between sound and tactility. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The HMX EMO utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Gazzew U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing. The polycarbonate material is known for its translucency, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the U4Tx's top housing delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness, with some enthusiasts referring to it as "boba plastic." This difference in materials impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches, with the EMO offering a clearer and more resonant sound while the U4Tx provides a deeper and fuller sound experience.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the EMO features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. The nylon material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. Similarly, the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing also delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. This similarity in bottom housing materials suggests that both switches prioritize sound quality and tactile feel, albeit in slightly different ways.
When comparing the overall impact of housing materials on switch performance, it becomes clear that each material brings unique qualities to the typing experience. The split between top and bottom housings allows for different aspects of sound and feel to be emphasized during typing, with the bottom housing influencing bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. While the EMO and U4Tx use different materials for their top and bottom housings, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles tailored to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is evident that the EMO is lighter in both aspects. The EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, compared to the U4Tx which has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the EMO make it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, such as for work or gaming. On the other hand, the U4Tx offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing force and experience.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. The EMO is slightly shorter than the U4Tx, but the difference is minimal. Gamers might prefer the EMO for its slightly faster response time, while those who prefer a more substantial key press might lean towards the U4Tx. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is not significant, so you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and typing experience.
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 Gazzew U4Tx comes in at $6.50 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 Gazzew U4Tx switch provides a deeper and richer "thock" sound profile with a whisper-quiet topping out sound. The EMO switch gives off a more vibrant and audible typing sound, whereas the U4Tx switch offers a more refined and luxurious acoustical experience. The sound of each switch is further influenced by factors such as the keyboard build and keycap selection, so it's essential to consider those aspects when choosing between the two.
In terms of feel, the HMX EMO switch provides a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, delivering an effortless and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switch offers a sharp and satisfying tactile bump with a crisp tactile feedback intensity. The EMO switch focuses on a smooth and satisfying typing feel, while the U4Tx switch emphasizes a strong and distinct tactile bump with each keypress. Your preference for a lighter and smoother typing experience versus a sharper and more pronounced tactile feedback will determine which switch is the better fit for you.
Overall, both the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you enjoy a more vibrant sound with a light and bouncy typing experience, the EMO switch may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a deeper and richer sound profile coupled with a sharp and distinct tactile bump, the U4Tx switch would be the ideal option. Ultimately, your personal preference in sound and feel will dictate which switch suits your typing style and typing preference best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a lighter touch and smooth, bouncy key presses with a clacky feel, the EMO may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more refined sound profile with a sharp, satisfying tactile bump and a deeper, bassy sound during key presses, the U4Tx could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the feel or sound of your typing experience.
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