Bsun Pine vs. HMX EMO
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the HMX EMO switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Pine tactile switch to the HMX EMO linear switch, we see two distinct typing experiences. The Bsun Pine is renowned for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing direct and no-nonsense tactility. On the other hand, the HMX EMO offers a lively and clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, resulting in a satisfying and smooth typing experience. While the Pine is ideal for those who appreciate accentuated tactile feedback, the EMO may be better suited for individuals looking for a bouncy and effortless typing sensation. 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
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Pine and the HMX EMO both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as the material allows light to pass through, creating a visually appealing effect. In terms of sound and aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches provides similar results.
On the other hand, the bottom housing material of the Bsun Pine and the HMX EMO differs, with both switches utilizing nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate. The qualities of the nylon bottom housing are more prominent when bottoming out a key, as it influences the impact and sound produced at that moment.
Overall, the Bsun Pine and the HMX EMO showcase the importance of both top and bottom housing materials in determining the sound profile and feel of a switch. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, providing a sharp and clear sound, the nylon bottom housing in both models contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. By combining different housing materials, these switches offer a balanced sound experience for users, where the top housing impacts the sound upon key release and the bottom housing influences the sound when pressing down on a key.
Weight
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the HMX EMO linear switch's 40 grams. This means that the Pine switch requires a bit more force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Pine switch also has a higher force of 65 grams compared to the EMO switch's 46 grams. This indicates that the Pine switch will feel heavier and more substantial when fully pressed compared to the EMO switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the EMO switch would be the better option due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more robust typing experience, the Pine switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Pine being slightly shorter than the EMO. Gamers may prefer the Pine for its slightly faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial feel may lean towards the EMO. Overall, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, catering to different preferences in typing and gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
The HMX EMO comes in at $3.49 per 10 switches.
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 BSUN Pine tactile switch is known to produce a crisp and satisfying click due to its sharp tactile bump and long pole stem design. On the other hand, the HMX EMO linear switch is characterized by a lively and clacky sound, which adds to the overall typing experience. It should be noted that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel, the BSUN Pine tactile switch is often described as having an accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile feedback. This means that users can expect a medium tactile feel that is not too harsh but provides a noticeable bump with each key press, resulting in a responsive and engaging typing experience. On the contrary, the HMX EMO linear switch offers a light and bouncy feel with a 46g bottom-out force, making it effortless to type on and delivering a smooth and satisfying keystroke.
Overall, both the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the HMX EMO linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing experience. While the Pine switch provides a direct and tactile typing feel with a sharp bump, the EMO switch offers a light and clacky experience that is smooth and satisfying. Depending on whether you prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback or a smoother linear feel, you can choose between these two switches to achieve similar levels of satisfaction based on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the BSUN Pine tactile switch or the HMX EMO linear switch, you should take into account your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium-heavy tactile bump with a 65g bottom-out force and prefer a sharp and quick bottom-out experience, the Pine switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you like a light and clacky feel with a 46g bottom-out force and want an effortless and bouncy typing experience, the EMO switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize precise tactility or a smooth and satisfying typing sensation.
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