HMX EMO vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) stand out as excellent options, each offering unique features to cater to different preferences. The HMX EMO switch is a linear switch that provides a lively, clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. It is exceptionally factory-lubed, delivering an effortless, bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is a tactile switch known for its maximum tactility, offering a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack when typing. If you prefer a switch with a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Sunflower switch is the way to go. 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
67g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The HMX EMO and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) differ in their housing materials, with the EMO featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the POM T1 (Sunflower) has a POM top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the EMO creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, ideal for those looking for a high-pitched sound with RGB lighting capabilities. In contrast, the POM top housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) produces a deeper and more muted sound, providing a unique auditory experience.
On the other hand, both switches share similarities in their bottom housing materials. The nylon bottom housing of the EMO offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer material that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) contributes to a pleasing and unique sound with a deeper profile. These bottom housings play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel experienced by the user.
Overall, while the top housings of the HMX EMO and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) offer contrasting sound profiles, their bottom housing materials provide similar qualities in terms of sound depth and resonance. Both switches prioritize creating a distinct auditory experience for users, with the choice between polycarbonate or POM housing materials dictating the overall sound profile. Whether one prefers a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, more muted sound, both switches deliver unique and pleasing typing experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, we see a clear difference in weight. The EMO has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, providing a smooth and easy typing experience. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams, offering a more substantial and tactile typing feel. While the actuation force of the POM T1 is unknown, it is clear that it requires a stronger push compared to the EMO. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the EMO is the choice, while the POM T1 is better suited for individuals who prefer a heavier feel to their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The EMO's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the POM T1's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their travel distances, so choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for key feel and response time. Ultimately, while the EMO and POM T1 have varying travel distances, both switches provide a unique typing experience that can cater to different user preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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 linear switch offers a lively and clacky typing experience, while the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch provides a resonant and sharp sound profile. The EMO switch is best known for its satisfying and smooth typing experience, while the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch delivers a clean and sharp clack. When comparing the two, users can expect a higher-pitched and immersive sound from the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch, whereas the EMO switch may provide a more standard yet bouncy sound.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO linear switch is described as offering a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, but specific subjective descriptions are not available at the moment. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is known for its sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating tactile feedback. Users typing on the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch can expect a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress, providing a distinct and prominent tactility that is both satisfying and responsive.
Taking all available information into consideration, users looking for a lively and clacky typing experience with a smooth feel may prefer the HMX EMO linear switch. On the other hand, those interested in maximum tactility, sharp feedback, and a resonant sound profile may opt for the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch. While both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch option, tailored to their preferences for sound and tactility. Ultimately, the choice between the HMX EMO and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch will depend on individual preferences for typing sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom-out force, typing experience, sound, and feel. If you prefer a light bottom-out force and a bouncy typing experience with a clacky feel, the HMX EMO switch is a great choice. On the other hand, if you seek maximum tactility with a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch offers a sharp tactile feedback and a clean clack sound. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific feel and sound profile you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
