HMX EMO vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX EMO and Sarokeys Purple Sakura mechanical keyboard switches, we see two distinct typing experiences on offer. The HMX EMO is a linear switch known for its lively and clacky feel, with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura is a tactile switch that offers a snappy response and a decadently buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of tactility that is pronounced yet not overpowering. While the EMO provides an effortless and bouncy typing experience, the Purple Sakura offers a mild and neutral sound signature. Each switch offers its own unique benefits, whether you prefer a smooth and satisfying typing experience with the EMO or a snappy and buttery feel with the Purple Sakura. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX EMO and Sarokeys Purple Sakura both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches with RGB lighting. However, the EMO and Purple Sakura differ in their bottom housings, with the EMO utilizing a nylon bottom housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Overall, these differences in housing materials contribute to unique typing experiences for each switch.
Both the EMO and Purple Sakura share the advantage of having polycarbonate top housings, which enhance the sound profile by creating a sharper and crisper typing experience. The translucency of polycarbonate also adds an aesthetic appeal, especially when paired with RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in their bottom housings, with the EMO's nylon bottom housing providing a deeper and fuller sound while the Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound for a duller sound profile. This contrast highlights how varying housing materials can impact the overall typing experience and sound output of a switch.
In terms of construction, the use of different housing materials in the EMO and Purple Sakura allows for a distribution of qualities between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. This distinction showcases how variations in housing materials can affect different aspects of the typing experience. Despite the differences in their bottom housings, the similarities in their polycarbonate top housings ensure that both the EMO and Purple Sakura deliver a sharp and distinct sound profile.
Weight
The actuation force of the HMX EMO linear switch is lighter at 40 grams compared to the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch at 50 grams, making the EMO easier to activate. Additionally, the bottom out force of the EMO at 46 grams is also lighter than the Purple Sakura at 60 grams, providing a smoother typing experience with less resistance. Those who prefer a light and effortless keystroke may find the HMX EMO to be a more favorable option. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Purple Sakura with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces may be the better choice. Ultimately, the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the EMO allow for quicker and easier typing, while the Purple Sakura offers a more tactile and pronounced typing experience with its medium force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The EMO switch may provide a slightly deeper feel due to its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more substantial key press experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of how much depth and responsiveness one desires in a switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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 provides a lively and clacky typing experience, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is mild and unobtrusive. The EMO switch may result in a slightly louder typing noise due to its clacky nature, whereas the Purple Sakura switch will produce a more moderate and neutral sound suitable for various environments.
Moving on to feel, the HMX EMO switch delivers a feather-light typing experience with a bouncy and satisfying feel, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch offers a buttery and snappy tactile sensation. The EMO switch is factory-lubed for a smooth and effortless typing experience, whereas the Purple Sakura switch strikes a delicate balance of tactility without being too overpowering, providing a comfortable and fluid keystroke experience.
Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a livelier and more clacky typing experience, the HMX EMO linear switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a buttery and snappy tactile sensation with a neutral sound profile, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a light, bouncy feel with a clacky sound and a feather-light bottom-out force, the EMO may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a snappy response, decadently buttery downstroke, and a slightly higher bottom-out force, the Purple Sakura could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of feel, sound, and typing style. So, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and enjoy a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
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