HMX EMO vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX EMO and the Dareu Snow mechanical keyboard switches, it's evident that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The HMX EMO switch is celebrated for its lively, clacky feel and feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing an effortless and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch stands out for its innovative use of POK material, resulting in a deeper sound signature when typing on this smooth linear switch. While the EMO is categorized as bouncy and the Snow is classified as thocky, neutral, low-pitched, and bouncy. These general characteristics can help guide your decision, 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
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX EMO and Dareu Snow, we see that both switches have a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for providing a deep and full sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate. While both switches share this characteristic, the EMO stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in top housing material can significantly impact the overall sound experience of the switch.
On the other hand, the Dareu Snow features a POK top housing, which is praised for its smoothness and durability. The POK material has a coefficient of friction that makes it one of the smoothest materials available, contributing to a smooth and clacky typing experience. In terms of strength and wear resistance, POK surpasses materials like POM, Nylon, and NY. In this aspect, the Dareu Snow outshines the HMX EMO with its top housing material, providing a different typing experience that focuses on smoothness and durability rather than sharpness and crispness.
While the HMX EMO and Dareu Snow both have a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, their top housing materials set them apart in terms of sound quality and typing experience. The decision between a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile in the EMO or a POK top housing for a smoother typing experience in the Snow comes down to personal preference. Each housing material brings its own unique qualities to the switch, impacting the overall sound and feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile or a smoother, clacky typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it's evident that the EMO is the lighter option. The EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Snow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is slightly heavier. The EMO will provide a smoother and easier keystroke activation compared to the Snow, which offers a bit more resistance. For those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Snow might be the better choice. Both switches provide distinct typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, selecting between the EMO and Snow will depend on personal preference regarding typing force and feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it is clear that the EMO has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Snow's 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. For those who prefer a more responsive feel, the shorter travel distance of the Snow may be preferable. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a deeper key press experience may lean towards the slightly longer travel distance of the EMO. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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
The HMX EMO linear switch is known for its lively and clacky feel with a light 46g bottom-out force, providing an effortless and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch offers a deeper sound signature due to its innovative use of POK material for the top housing and stem, resulting in a thocky and low-pitched sound when typing. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO switch is characterized as providing a bouncy sensation, giving a spring-like and elastic feedback to the keys when pressed. In comparison, the Dareu Snow switch offers a unique feel that is not specifically described, but it can be assumed to be different from the bouncy feel of the EMO switch.
In conclusion, the HMX EMO and Dareu Snow linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the EMO switch provides a lively and clacky typing experience with a light bottom-out force, the Snow switch stands out with a deep and thocky sound signature. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a feather-light bottom-out force and a lively, clacky feel with effortless typing, then the HMX EMO switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom-out force and a smooth linear switch with a deeper sound signature due to the innovative use of POK material, then the Dareu Snow switch may be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a bouncy and clacky typing experience or a smooth and deep sound signature in a linear switch.
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