HMX EMO vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the HMX EMO and the Outemu Red mechanical keyboard switches, you have two great linear options to consider. The HMX EMO switch is renowned for its lively, clacky feel and feather-light 46g bottom-out force. With exceptional factory lubrication, the EMO offers an effortless and bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. On the other hand, the Outemu Red switch is also a linear switch that provides a reliable and consistent typing experience. While it may not have specific standout features like the EMO, the Outemu Red is a solid choice for those who prefer a more straightforward typing feel. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the HMX EMO and the Outemu Red switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate. This material is excellent for switches that plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. Conversely, the EMO and the Red switches both utilize nylon bottom housings, which elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. While both switches have similar top and bottom housing materials, the distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housing can impact the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches.
One key difference between the HMX EMO and the Outemu Red switches lies in their use of different materials for the top and bottom housings. The EMO features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, creating a combination of sharpness and fullness in sound. In contrast, the Red switch utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, emphasizing sharpness and crispness throughout typing. Despite the difference in housing materials, both switches deliver a distinct sound profile based on the combination of materials used in their construction.
In terms of sound and feel, the HMX EMO and the Outemu Red switches offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials. The split between top and bottom housings in the EMO allows for a noticeable impact on both the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound when releasing a key. On the other hand, the Red switch, with consistent polycarbonate housing throughout, maintains a consistent sharp and crisp sound profile across all key presses. Overall, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in creating a distinct typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The HMX EMO linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Outemu Red linear switch, which has an actuation force of 46 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the EMO also has a lighter force of 46 grams, while the Red has a heavier force of 62 grams. This means that the EMO switch will require less force to register a keystroke and to bottom out compared to the Outemu Red switch. Those who prefer a lighter feel and a lighter typing experience may opt for the HMX EMO switch, while those who prefer a more substantial push and a heavier typing experience may choose the Outemu Red switch for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Red switch has a longer travel distance compared to the HMX EMO switch. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Outemu Red is more traditional, providing a deeper key press feel, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the 3.5 mm travel distance of the HMX EMO offers a shorter key press, suitable for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the HMX EMO comes in at $3.49, whereas the Outemu Red comes in at $3.10.
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
When comparing the subjective qualities of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, the EMO switch stands out for its lively and clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing an effortless and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Red switch lacks specific information on its feel characteristics.
Regarding sound, the EMO switch offers a tactile and satisfying clicking noise, while the sound profile of the Red switch remains unknown. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by external factors like the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In conclusion, the HMX EMO linear switch is praised for its unique clacky feel and tactile sound, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts. While less information is available on the Outemu Red linear switch, it can be assumed that with its linear design, users can expect a smooth and consistent typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique qualities, allowing users to tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a light and bouncy typing experience with a bottom-out force of 46 grams, then the HMX EMO linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer bottom-out force of 62 grams without sacrificing smoothness, you might want to consider the Outemu Red linear switch. Ultimately, the decision on which switch to choose will depend on your personal preference for typing feel and bottom-out force. Consider what characteristics are most important to you in a keyboard switch before making your decision.
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