HMX EMO vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and the Durock White Lotus stand out as popular choices with their unique characteristics. The HMX EMO is a linear switch that offers a lively, clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. It provides an effortless, bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus is a tactile switch known for its delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance, making it ideal for work and extended typing sessions without overwhelming the user. Additionally, the White Lotus switches feature a removable light column for vibrant RGB lighting effects, adding a captivating glow to your keyboard setup. While the EMO switch offers a more distinct typing experience, the White Lotus switch provides a tranquil typing experience with mesmerizing RGB illumination. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX EMO and the Durock White Lotus are quite different, with the EMO featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the White Lotus has a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the EMO produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, while the modified PC & UPE Blend housing of the White Lotus offers a unique and premium feel. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature and sound-absorbing properties.
In terms of sound profile, the EMO's polycarbonate top housing creates a clear and resonant sound, while the White Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend top housing offers a different, more premium feel. Both switches utilize a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience. The differences in housing materials may result in varying sound characteristics when typing on these switches, with the top housing playing a significant role in the sound upon key release, and the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel.
While both switches may have different top housing materials, the shared nylon bottom housing of the HMX EMO and the Durock White Lotus ensures that they both deliver a deep and full sound profile when typing. The choice of housing materials ultimately contributes to the overall typing experience, with the characteristics of each material influencing the sound and feel of the switches. Whether opting for the crisper sound of polycarbonate or the unique feel of a modified PC & UPE Blend, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience thanks to their well-chosen housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it is clear that the EMO is lighter overall. The EMO has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the White Lotus's 46 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the EMO still remains lighter with 46 grams compared to the White Lotus's 56 grams, which is considered medium-light. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the EMO would be the better choice. On the other hand, for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the White Lotus would be the preferred option. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock White Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the White Lotus has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the EMO. In general, a longer travel distance can provide a more substantial, satisfying keystroke, while a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy a deeper keypress, the White Lotus may be the better option for you. If you prefer a shorter, more responsive feel, the EMO would be the way to go. Ultimately, both switches provide a unique typing experience based on their travel distances.
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 Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX EMO switch is likely to produce a lively and clacky sound due to its design, adding an audible element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switch is described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. This means it will offer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. However, the exact sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard structure and keycap material used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO switch is expected to provide a bouncy and effortless typing experience with its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, offering a satisfying and smooth feel. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus switch is described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing comfortable and reduces finger fatigue during extended sessions. The White Lotus switch is further characterized as mild and subtle, providing a gentle typing experience with a sound signature suitable for shared spaces.
In conclusion, both the HMX EMO linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The HMX EMO switch provides a lively and clacky feel with a light bottom-out force, while the White Lotus switch strikes a balance between delicate tactility and ease of use. While the sound and feel of each switch may differ slightly, both are designed to enhance the overall typing experience and are likely to provide satisfactory results based on the user's individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, consider the bottom out force that suits your typing style best. If you prefer a lighter touch with a more lively and smooth typing experience, the EMO with its 46g bottom out force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heavier but still gentle tactility that strikes the perfect balance for work or extended typing sessions, the White Lotus with its 56g bottom out force may be more suitable. Ultimately, your preference for bottom out force and typing experience will guide you towards the switch that best fits your needs and preferences.
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