HMX EMO vs. Durock Medium Tactile
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Durock Medium Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile switch are two popular options with distinct characteristics. The HMX EMO switch offers a lively and clacky typing experience with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing a satisfyingly smooth and bouncy feel. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is praised for its pronounced yet balanced tactility and unique jelly-like sound signature. While the EMO is categorized as a linear switch, the Medium Tactile falls under the categories of 'Accented', 'Stepped', 'Mild', and 'Polished', offering a different typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The HMX EMO and Durock Medium Tactile both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which enhances the resonance of the switch. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, both switches differ in the material used for the bottom housing. The EMO utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Medium Tactile also features a nylon bottom housing for a similar effect on sound profile.
While both switches share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, the nylon bottom housing of the EMO and Medium Tactile offer slightly different sound experiences. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a more rounded and dull sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. This difference in material for the bottom housing ultimately impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches when typing. Despite these differences, the top and bottom housings of each switch play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound upon key release.
In conclusion, while the HMX EMO and Durock Medium Tactile may have similar polycarbonate top housings for a sharper and crisper sound profile, their use of nylon for the bottom housing sets them apart in sound experience. The EMO and Medium Tactile each offer a unique typing experience due to the qualities of the nylon bottom housing absorbing sound and providing a fuller sound profile. Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in these switches highlights how the choice of materials can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences. The HMX EMO has a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch has an unknown actuation force but a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. Those looking for a switch with a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may prefer the EMO, while individuals seeking a more pronounced keystroke may lean towards the Medium Tactile option. In terms of weight, the EMO is lighter overall than the Medium Tactile, offering users a choice between a more effortless typing experience or a more robust keystroke feel.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch. The EMO offers a slightly quicker key press due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers who value faster response times. On the other hand, the Medium Tactile switch provides a slightly deeper and more satisfying key press with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - whether you prefer a shorter, more responsive feel or a longer, more substantial key press experience. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on individual typing or gaming preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile for $4.25.
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 HMX EMO switch is known for its lively and clacky sound, while the Durock Medium Tactile switch has a jelly-like sound signature. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the EMO providing a more satisfying and bouncy sound, while the Medium Tactile features a pronounced tactility that translates into its sound profile on keystrokes. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO switch boasts a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, delivering an effortless and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is described as accented, stepped, mild, and polished, offering a balanced tactile feel without being overwhelming or too subtle. This combination of characteristics in the Medium Tactile switch provides a comfortable typing experience that caters to a wide range of preferences.
Overall, the HMX EMO linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch offer distinct qualities in sound and feel. While the EMO excels in providing a lively and clacky sound with a light typing experience, the Medium Tactile offers a balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches can cater to different typing styles and preferences, ensuring that you can achieve a satisfying typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
In summary, if you prefer a light and clacky typing experience with a feather-light bottom-out force, the HMX EMO linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-heavy tactile switch with a balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch would be more suitable. Each switch offers a unique typing experience based on your preferences for weight, feel, and sound. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal typing style and what characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch. Consider trying out both switches to see which one aligns best with your typing needs and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
