HMX EMO vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the HMX EMO and the HMX Xinhai mechanical keyboard switches, it's all about the feel and sound. The EMO offers a lively, clacky typing experience with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, making it perfect for those who enjoy a bouncy and satisfying feel while typing. On the other hand, the Xinhai is crafted with a unique PA12 top housing for a softer acoustics profile and a POM stem for a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, providing a subtle sophistication and precise performance. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX EMO and the HMX Xinhai utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This allows for a more clear and resonant sound to be produced in both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for utilizing RGB lighting, making it a popular choice for switch housings that aim to showcase colorful lighting effects.
In contrast, the EMO and Xinhai differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the EMO featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Xinhai also incorporating a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as its softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon for their bottom housing. Both the EMO and Xinhai benefit from this material choice, providing a satisfying typing experience with a distinctly resonant sound.
Overall, while the top housings of the HMX EMO and Xinhai share similar characteristics due to their use of polycarbonate, the bottom housings differentiate the two switches with their nylon material. The split in housing materials allows for a unique combination of qualities in each switch, impacting both the bottom-out sound and feel as well as the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, both switches offer a balance of stiffness and softness in their housing materials, resulting in a harmonious typing experience with varied sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, we see that both switches have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces. The EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Xinhai has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Xinhai is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force, but both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of the forces required. For some users, the lighter weight of these switches may be preferable for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. The difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so in terms of everyday use, you would likely experience very similar results with both. However, if you prefer a slightly deeper keystroke, you may lean towards the HMX EMO with its slightly longer travel distance. On the other hand, if you prioritize a faster and more responsive typing experience, the HMX Xinhai may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
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 HMX Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $2.99.
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 linear switch offers a lively, clacky sound that provides a sharp and snappy experience when pressed. The Xinhai linear switch, on the other hand, is known for its unique PA12 top housing that provides a softer acoustics profile and a POM stem for a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. Both switches offer different sound profiles that cater to individual preferences, with the EMO delivering a more vibrant and percussive sound compared to the Xinhai's sophisticated and precise tones.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO linear switch is praised for its bouncy typing experience, thanks to its feather-light 46g bottom-out force that provides a spring-like feedback sensation. The keys have a lively feel, offering a rebound effect when pressed. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is described as creamy, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. Both switches offer different tactile sensations, with the EMO focusing on a bouncy and lively feel, while the Xinhai offers a silky and effortless typing experience.
Overall, both the HMX EMO linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the EMO offers a lively and clacky typing experience with a bouncy feel, the Xinhai showcases a sophisticated sound profile with a creamy and smooth typing sensation. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback, both switches deliver exceptional performance and can enhance your overall typing experience. Whether you prefer the sharp and snappy sound of the EMO or the soft and silky feel of the Xinhai, both switches are sure to provide a satisfying and smooth typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider the specific qualities and preferences you are looking for in a typing experience. If you prioritize a lively and bouncy feel with a slightly higher bottom-out force, the EMO switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, creamier feel with a softer acoustics profile and a distinctively sharp sound, the Xinhai switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the tactile feedback you prefer while using a mechanical keyboard.
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