HMX EMO vs. Gateron Weightlessness

Overview

When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to the feeling and sound that best matches your typing style and preferences. The HMX EMO, a linear switch, is celebrated for its lively and clacky feel, featuring a remarkably light 46g bottom-out force. This switch is exceptional in that it comes factory-lubed, providing an effortless and bouncy typing experience that many enthusiasts find both satisfying and smooth. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness, a tactile switch, offers a subtly pronounced tactile bump that provides a more engaging typing experience without overwhelming the user. Known for their balanced sound profile, these switches resonate well with those who appreciate a clear tactile feedback while still maintaining a pleasant auditory experience. Ultimately, the EMO caters to those looking for speed and fluidity in their keystrokes, while the Weightlessness appeals to users who prefer a bit of texture in their typing. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX EMO Linear

Gateron Weightlessness Tactile

$3.49

$2.79 per 10

$6.10

$5.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the HMX EMO and Gateron Weightlessness, a key distinction lies in their top housing materials. The HMX EMO utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, contributing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile that many enthusiasts might appreciate for gaming or typographical precision. This stiffer plastic not only enhances clarity but also makes the EMO particularly suited for setups that highlight RGB lighting due to its translucent quality. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness features nylon as its top housing material, which promotes a deeper and fuller sound. This softer plastic absorbs more sound and delivers a rounder, more muted auditory experience, appealing to users who prefer a more subdued typing atmosphere.

However, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a shared characteristic that manifests in their tactile feedback and bottom-out sound. While the HMX EMO's nylon housing contributes to a more balanced auditory experience compared to its top housing, the Gateron Weightlessness's nylon bottom continues to evoke a similar depth of sound. Since both switches rely on the same material for their lower housings, one can expect a degree of consistency in the bottom-out feel and sound across both models. This shared nylon contributes to the switches' ability to absorb impact noise, leading to a more pleasant typing experience overall.

The interplay between the top and bottom housing materials is crucial in determining the overall acoustic performance of each switch. In the case of the HMX EMO, the polycarbonate top housing sharpens the sound upon key release, while the nylon bottom softens the impact. With the Gateron Weightlessness, the combination of a nylon top and bottom housing emphasizes a cohesive sound profile that leans towards muffled tones. Despite their differences, both switches can harmonize with your personal preferences depending on your typing style and the intended use. The EMO may appeal to those who seek brightness and clarity, while the Weightlessness attracts users who prioritize warmth and a fuller sound.

Weight

The HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch present distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The EMO features an actuation force of 40 grams, which is on the lighter side, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions and ideal for users who prefer a less strenuous feel. In contrast, the Weightlessness switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. While the EMO has a bottom out force of 46 grams, indicating it provides feedback when pressed all the way down, the bottom out force for the Weightlessness is currently unavailable. As a result, if you are looking for a lighter option that enables extended use without fatigue, the HMX EMO is the clear choice. However, if you prefer the tactile response of a heavier actuation force, then the Gateron Weightlessness would be more suited to your typing style.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, we find that the EMO has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Weightlessness measures slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. This 0.1 mm difference means that the EMO offers a deeper feel, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial keypress experience. In contrast, the Weightlessness, with its shorter travel distance, could provide quicker actuation, making it more suitable for gamers who prioritize rapid response times. Ultimately, if you prefer a more responsive feel, the Weightlessness might be the better pick, whereas those who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke may opt for the HMX EMO.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The HMX EMO linear switch is characterized by a lively, clacky sound that adds a unique auditory flair to the typing experience. This sound profile stands in contrast to the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, which produces a more muted, balanced sound, making it less prominent in auditory feedback. It's essential to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard frame and keycap material, so the perceived differences may vary depending on the user's setup.

When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO offers an exceptionally smooth and bouncy typing experience, complemented by its feather-light 46g bottom-out force; this makes the EMO particularly enjoyable for those who favor a fast and effortless keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness switch provides a subtle to moderate tactile feedback, which adds a sense of engagement while maintaining an overall smooth typing experience. While the EMO leans toward a more free-flowing experience, the Weightlessness adds a tactile component that some users may find more satisfying when typing or gaming.

In summary, the HMX EMO linear switch delivers a light, clacky sound and an effortless, bouncy feel that may appeal to those who enjoy a more dynamic typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness switch offers a muted sound paired with a subtle tactile feedback, creating a balanced typing sensation. Both switches cater to different preferences; if you favor auditory feedback and lightness, the EMO is ideal, whereas if you prefer subtle tactile cues, the Weightlessness will be more suitable. Each provides a distinct experience, allowing users to choose based on their individual typing style and sound preference.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch ultimately comes down to your typing preferences and the experience you seek from your keyboard. If you enjoy a lively typing experience with a light touch, the EMO is the way to go. Its clacky feel and light 46-gram bottom-out force provide a bouncy and satisfying response that can make long typing sessions feel more dynamic and fun. On the other hand, if you're looking for a balanced key feel with subtle tactile feedback, the Weightlessness would likely suit you better. With its moderate tactile response, this switch offers a more restrained experience that can enhance your typing precision while maintaining a pleasant sound profile. Thus, consider whether you prefer a lively, smooth experience or a more controlled, tactile one, and choose accordingly to ensure your mechanical keyboard meets your needs.

Mentioned in this article

HMX EMO Linear

$3.49

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Weightlessness Tactile

$6.10

$5.50 per 10

Learn more