HMX EMO vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and Gateron Zero Degree 0° stand out as two unique linear options, each catering to different typing preferences. The HMX EMO is celebrated for its lively, clacky feel and an impressively light 46g bottom-out force, providing a bouncy and smooth typing experience that many enthusiasts find satisfying, especially for those who enjoy a more tactile feedback. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° focuses on silent operation and comfort, featuring a self-padding design and dual-rail structure that ensure unparalleled smoothness and stability while absorbing sound for a quieter keypress. While the EMO is perfect for those who relish an airy responsiveness in their typing, the Zero Degree 0° is ideal for users seeking a serene and unobtrusive typing environment. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The HMX EMO and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to their sound profiles in remarkably similar ways. The polycarbonate material is known for its stiffness, enabling both switches to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This characteristic allows for a clear resonance that is particularly appealing to enthusiasts looking for a sound profile that enhances their typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing not only makes it visually striking, especially when paired with RGB lighting, but it also provides a consistent aesthetic appeal across both switch types. Ultimately, this similarity in top housing material ensures that users will enjoy a comparable auditory feedback when typing on either switch.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the HMX EMO and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches diverges with the use of nylon in both, although they share the same properties. With nylon being a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate, both switches create a deeper and fuller sound profile when pressed. This is because the nylon absorbs sound waves more effectively, which dulls the sharpness often associated with harder plastics. Consequently, while the top housing focuses on the high-pitched sound feedback during key releases, the nylon bottom housing enriches the experience with a rounder, fuller sound during key presses. This distinction is critical; the interplay of these different materials allows each switch to deliver a multifaceted auditory experience, blending higher and lower frequencies in a satisfying manner.
The overall sound experience and feel of the HMX EMO and Gateron Zero Degree 0° can be expected to be relatively similar, given that both incorporate polycarbonate on the top and nylon on the bottom. While the unique materials lead to different aspects of sound propagation, the shared characteristics of their housings ensure that users experience a coherent typing experience across both switches. The benefit of using nylon for the lower housing results in a more muted and rounded sound downstroke, while the polycarbonate contributes to clarity during the upstroke. Therefore, regardless of the individual distinctions between the two models, the combination of these materials creates a fulfilling tactile experience that appeals to typists and gamers alike.
Weight
When comparing the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force. The EMO features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, which may appeal to users seeking a more effortless typing experience, especially during long work hours or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, offering a more substantial feel, which some typists prefer for enhanced tactile feedback. The bottom out force for the EMO is 46 grams, indicating that it requires slightly more force to fully bottom out compared to the actuation force. However, the bottom out force for the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch is unavailable, leaving a gap in comparison for that metric. Therefore, if users prioritize a lighter switch with a softer typing experience, the HMX EMO would be the ideal choice, while those inclined towards a heavier push should opt for the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it's evident that they cater to slightly different preferences. The HMX EMO features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. As such, the HMX EMO switch is the shorter option, appealing to those who prefer a more responsive feel and quicker actuation, which is often favored by gamers. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, with its longer travel distance, offers a more substantial depth that some users may find comforting and less abrupt, making it a suitable choice for those who enjoy a fuller typing experience. Ultimately, while the difference in travel distance is minimal, it can significantly influence user preference based on the desired balance between speed and tactile feedback.
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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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
The HMX EMO linear switch is characterized by its lively and clacky sound, which can add a unique auditory element to your typing experience. This sound profile is likely enhanced by the switch's factory lubrication, which can contribute to a satisfying resonance when bottoming out. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch prioritizes silence with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure. This setup effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a virtually silent operation that makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter typing environment. However, it's important to note that the overall sound experience can still depend on your keyboard's construction, including materials and design, as well as your choice of keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the EMO switch offers a feather-light bottom-out force of just 46g, providing an effortless and bouncy typing experience that many users find satisfying and smooth. The factory lubrication enhances this feel, making each keystroke fluid and enjoyable. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch is designed for ultimate smoothness and stability, giving it a soft, elastic feel that is quite distinct. While the EMO provides a playful typing experience, the Zero Degree 0° focuses on a plush, gliding sensation that can be appealing for those who prefer a lighter touch without any tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while the HMX EMO linear switch excels in providing a lively and auditory typing journey with its clacky sound and bouncy feel, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch offers a completely different experience characterized by its whisper-quiet operation and plush, smooth keystrokes. Choosing between the two largely depends on personal preference regarding noise and tactile feedback. If you’re looking for a lively experience, the EMO will deliver, whereas if a silent, smooth typing sensation is what you seek, the Zero Degree 0° will serve you well.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the typing experience you desire. If you enjoy a lively typing experience with a light touch, the HMX EMO is an excellent choice, providing a clacky feel and a smooth, bouncy response thanks to its factory lubing and 46g bottom-out force. This switch is perfect for those who appreciate a bit of auditory feedback while typing and are looking for a satisfying tactile sensation in every keystroke. On the other hand, if silent operation and minimal noise disruption are your top priorities, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° is the ideal switch for you. Its innovative self-padding design ensures a whisper-quiet typing experience while maintaining a soft, elastic feel that enhances stability and consistency. In essence, select the HMX EMO for a more engaging and tactile experience, and choose the Gateron Zero Degree 0° if you seek smoothness and silence, making it suitable for office environments or shared spaces. By understanding these distinctions, you can better tailor your mechanical keyboard to fit your specific typing needs and preferences.
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