HMX EMO vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the HMX EMO and SP-Star RedBlue mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. The HMX EMO switch offers a lively and clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing an effortless typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches are known for their medium-light typing experience and relatively low-pitched sound profile. While the HMX EMO switch may be preferred for its bouncy feel, the SP-Star RedBlue switch could be favored for its polished and thocky sound. 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
57g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the SP-Star RedBlue, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it a popular choice for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting for added aesthetic appeal. This common material choice ensures that both the EMO and RedBlue switches will offer a similar sound profile and visual experience when it comes to their top housing.
However, a notable point of difference between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The EMO features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the RedBlue utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which continues the trend of creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate in the bottom housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound, providing a contrasting experience to the EMO's nylon bottom housing.
Overall, the choice of top and bottom housing materials plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of a switch. While both the HMX EMO and SP-Star RedBlue share polycarbonate top housing for a similar sound experience, the difference in their bottom housing materials, nylon and polycarbonate respectively, offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile from nylon or a sharper and crisper sound profile from polycarbonate, each housing material brings its own characteristics to enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it is evident that the EMO is the lighter of the two. The EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the RedBlue has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 57 grams. The EMO provides a lighter typing experience with a lower actuation and bottom out force compared to the RedBlue, which offers a slightly heavier feel with its higher bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended use may lean towards the EMO, while those who enjoy a more substantial push may opt for the RedBlue. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming purposes.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the RedBlue switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the EMO switch. This means that the SP-Star RedBlue switch might provide a slightly more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper travel distance. On the other hand, the HMX EMO switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which could be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of key press feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 offers a lively and clacky sound profile, while the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch provides a low-pitched and thocky typing experience. This means that the EMO switch may have a more noticeable and energetic sound compared to the RedBlue switch, which leans towards a deeper and satisfying tone. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by additional factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO switch is known for its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, delivering an effortless and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with smooth key travel and reduced friction. This indicates that the EMO switch may provide a more responsive and springy feel, whereas the RedBlue switch focuses on a gentle and refined typing sensation.
Overall, if you enjoy a more energetic and clacky sound with a lively typing experience, the HMX EMO linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deep and satisfying sound profile coupled with a mild and polished typing feel, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch could be more in line with your preferences. Remember that personal preference plays a significant role in determining the best switch for your typing needs, so trying out both options to see which one suits you better would be ideal for finding the perfect match.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a feather-light typing experience with a bouncy feel, the HMX EMO switch with its 46g bottom out force may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile and a mild, polished feel, the SP-Star RedBlue switch with its 57g bottom out force could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style. Consider these factors carefully to ensure a satisfying typing experience with your mechanical keyboard.
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