HMX EMO vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX EMO and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches with unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX EMO switch offers a lively, clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing an effortless and bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine switches are known for their resonant and clacky notes, combined with impeccable factory lubrication for a silky smooth keystroke. While the EMO switch leans towards a light and lively typing experience, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch offers a more resonant and high-pitched feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), the use of polycarbonate in the EMO's top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a higher-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a deeper and more muted sound, catering to those who enjoy a softer typing sound. Both materials have their unique characteristics, appealing to different preferences when it comes to sound profiles.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both switches use nylon as their material of choice. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and producing a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in housing material ensures that both the EMO and Strawberry Wine (V2) offer a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile, despite the differences in their top housings. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing will provide a deep and satisfying sound, enhancing the overall typing experience for users.
It is important to note that the qualities of each housing material, whether it be polycarbonate or POM for the top housing, and nylon for the bottom housing, will have different impacts on the overall typing experience. The bottom housing will primarily affect the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing the key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings allows for a more nuanced typing experience, catering to the preferences of users who value both the actuation and release sounds of their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is clear that both switches are relatively light. The EMO has a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Strawberry Wine (V2) which has an actuation force of 45 grams. Similarly, the EMO has a lighter bottom out force of 46 grams in contrast to the Strawberry Wine (V2) which has a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches provide a light typing experience, making them suitable for extended periods of use. However, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Strawberry Wine (V2) due to its slightly heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both of these switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their quicker response times. The EMO switch is slightly longer in travel distance compared to the Strawberry Wine switch, but the difference is minimal and may not be noticeable to all users. Ultimately, if you prefer a slightly deeper feeling when pressing down on a key, the HMX EMO switch may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch would be the way to go.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Wine (V2) for $4.35.
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 renowned for its lively and clacky feel, providing a satisfying typing experience with its feather-light 46g bottom-out force. The factory-lubed EMO switch offers an effortless and bouncy typing sensation that is both smooth and enjoyable. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch is known for its resonant and clacky sound, delivering a sharp and snappy auditory experience. These switches feature a top-notch factory lube job, resulting in a silky smooth typing feel that enhances the overall typing experience.
When it comes to sound, while the EMO linear switch's sound characteristics are not specified, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches are described as clacky, resonant, and high-pitched. This means that the Strawberry Wine switches produce sharp, crisp sounds that are clean and immersive, making typing a delightful auditory experience. The sound profile of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the HMX EMO linear switch is not specifically described, but it is known to provide a bouncy and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches are described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This results in a typing feel that is smooth and effortless, enhancing the overall keyboarding experience.
Overall, both the HMX EMO and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether you're looking for a lively and bouncy typing experience with the EMO switch or a smooth and silky feel with the Strawberry Wine switches, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience with either option. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HMX EMO linear switch or the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 46 grams and enjoy a lively, clacky feel with a smooth typing experience, then the HMX EMO switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force of 50 grams and enjoy a resonant, clacky typing experience with an exceptionally smooth feel, then the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch would be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and what type of typing experience you are looking for.
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