HMX EMO vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference between varying tactile experiences and performance profiles. The HMX EMO switch stands out with its feather-light bottom-out force of 46g, delivering a lively and clacky feel that is exceptionally smooth and satisfying, thanks to its factory lubrication. This switch is ideal for users who prioritize a bouncy typing experience that enhances both speed and comfort during extended use. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offers a contrasting experience with its heavier variant, notable for its PA12 top housing that contributes to a softer acoustic profile, while the POM stem provides a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. This switch is perfect for users who enjoy a more robust tactile feedback, appealing to those who prefer a sturdier, yet sophisticated typing sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your unique typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
When comparing the HMX EMO and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), the most notable difference lies in the materials used for the top housing. The EMO utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by its stiffness and ability to transmit sound more clearly. This housing material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making it particularly desirable for users who appreciate enhanced auditory feedback, especially in RGB-lit environments where translucency plays a key aesthetic role. The crisper sound profile of the polycarbonate can be attributed to its resonant qualities, allowing for a more vivid representation of keystrokes.
In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) opts for a nylon top housing. Known for its softer characteristics, nylon produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller, rounder auditory experience. This material's sound-absorbing properties allow for a more muted and mellow feedback when typing, appealing to users who favor a smoother, less piercing sound compared to the EMO. Although both housings serve to contain the mechanism of the switch, the differences in material lead to contrasting auditory experiences.
Both the EMO and the Xinhai (Heavy) share nylon for their bottom housing, which contributes a consistent sound profile across both models. Since both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, the impact on the bottom-out sound and overall tactile feel will be similar, providing a rich and full auditory response. While the top housings contribute distinct sound characteristics—sharp and bright from polycarbonate versus deep and mellow from nylon—the commonality in the bottom housing ensures that users will experience a cohesive feel when bottoming out. This shared material leads to similar results in the tactile response users can expect, despite the auditory differences introduced by the top.
Weight
The HMX EMO linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch differ significantly in both actuation and bottom out forces, catering to varied user preferences. The EMO switch features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it well-suited for those who favor prolonged periods of typing or gaming without fatigue. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch demands a stronger actuation force of 55 grams and has a higher bottom out force of 62.5 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a firmer touch. This means that if you're inclined toward a lighter switch, the EMO is the way to go, while those gravitating towards a heavier feel should opt for the Xinhai. Therefore, while the EMO is lighter overall, the Xinhai provides the weightier feedback that some users might find satisfying.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference, while marginal, means that the EMO switch allows for a deeper key press compared to the Xinhai (Heavy), which may provide a more substantial tactile experience for users who appreciate the feel of a deeper stroke. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Xinhai (Heavy) for its quicker response times, making it suitable for fast-paced gaming scenarios. On the other hand, typists or those who enjoy a more pronounced depth in their key presses may gravitate towards the EMO. Ultimately, users should consider their personal preferences and intended use when choosing between these two switches, as the EMO’s 3.5 mm travel distance offers a slight advantage in depth, while the Xinhai remains a solid option for enhanced responsiveness.
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 (Heavy) 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 (Heavy) 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 switch presents a lively, clacky noise that contributes to a more expressive typing experience. This sound profile typically enhances the feeling of engagement, making each keystroke feel more responsive. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch offers a softer acoustic profile thanks to its unique PA12 top housing, combined with a higher-pitched resonance from its POM stem. This results in a more subtle sound signature that emphasizes precision without sacrificing audible feedback, appealing to those who prefer sophisticated acoustics over a more overt clack.
When considering the feel, the HMX EMO stands out with its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, giving it an effortless and bouncy typing experience. This makes it ideal for users who value a smooth and satisfying tactile sensation. In comparison, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) brings a firmer touch, suitable for those who appreciate a heavier actuation force. The distinct materials and construction of the Xinhai provide a confident, controlled feel when typing, creating an overall experience that is both precise and dynamic.
Overall, both the HMX EMO and Xinhai (Heavy) switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The EMO's lively clackiness and lightweight responsiveness create an attractive option for those who enjoy an energizing typing experience, while the Xinhai (Heavy) appeals to users looking for a more subtle and refined sound paired with a firmer keystroke. Depending on your needs, both switches can offer satisfying results, allowing you to tailor your mechanical keyboard experience to your personal liking.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a lighter touch and prefer a more lively, bouncy typing experience, the EMO is your best bet, as its 46g bottom-out force provides effortless actuation and a satisfying clacky sound that enhances the overall typing experience. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy rapid keys and a more playful engagement, whether for gaming or casual typing. On the other hand, if you appreciate a firmer and more deliberate keystroke, the Xinhai (Heavy) with its 62.5g bottom-out force will suit you well. This switch is designed for those who prefer a robust, precise feel, complemented by a subtler acoustic profile thanks to its PA12 top housing and POM stem, making it particularly well-suited for prolonged typing sessions where control and accuracy matter. Overall, your choice between these two switches should reflect what makes you more comfortable—be it the nimble responsiveness of the EMO or the solid feedback of the Xinhai (Heavy).
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