HMX EMO vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro offer distinct typing experiences. The HMX EMO switch is a linear switch known for its lively, clacky feel and feather-light 46g bottom-out force. With exceptional factory-lubing, this switch provides an effortless and bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches are tactile switches offering a medium level of tactility with a light touch and a neutral sound signature. Positioned as an ideal "Goldilocks" tactile option, they provide a balanced typing experience. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that may appeal to different preferences. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX EMO and Dareu Violet Gold Pro feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic enhances resonance and clarity, making it ideal for switches where sound quality is a priority. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects, adding an aesthetic element to the switches. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housings, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and visual appeal.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of the HMX EMO and Dareu Violet Gold Pro offer a different typing experience. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softness that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, which may appeal to users looking for a more muted typing experience. Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both switches provide unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing feel and sound.
The division of housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches influences the overall typing experience. While the bottom housing primarily impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing plays a significant role in key release sound. This means that users will experience a combination of the characteristics brought by polycarbonate and nylon in the EMO and Violet Gold Pro switches, creating a well-rounded typing experience that caters to various preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the HMX EMO linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it is evident that the EMO is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Violet Gold Pro's 45 grams. The bottom out force for the EMO is also lighter at 46 grams compared to the unknown bottom out force of the Violet Gold Pro. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the EMO would be the ideal choice due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Violet Gold Pro may provide a more satisfying typing experience despite the lack of information on its bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, appealing to those looking for fast response times, particularly gamers. The EMO switch may provide a slightly quicker key press due to its shorter travel distance, while the Violet Gold Pro switch offers a bit more depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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
When comparing the sound of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, the EMO is known for its lively and clacky sound profile, whereas the Violet Gold Pro offers a more neutral sound signature. The EMO's sound is characterized by a distinct clickiness, adding an element of auditory feedback to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro's neutral sound profile makes it a versatile option suitable for a variety of environments and preferences. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can be influenced by factors like keyboard construction and keycap material, so personal testing may be necessary to determine the most pleasing sound for individual users.
In terms of feel, the HMX EMO linear switch provides a bouncy and smooth typing experience with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offers a medium tactility with a fairly light touch and a stepped feel, providing a more subtle tactile feedback compared to other tactile switches. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, but the EMO's bounciness may appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced tactile response, while the Violet Gold Pro's balanced tactile feel may be preferred by users seeking a softer typing experience.
Overall, the HMX EMO linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The EMO provides a lively and clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, ideal for users who enjoy audible feedback and light actuation. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro offers a neutral sound profile and a medium tactility with a stepped feel, making it a versatile option for users seeking a balanced typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your typing preferences. Opt for the EMO if you prefer a light, clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing a bouncy and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, go for the Violet Gold Pro if you prefer a medium tactility with a fairly light touch and a neutral sound signature, offering a balanced typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a lively linear switch like the EMO or a "Goldilocks" tactile option like the Violet Gold Pro. Choose wisely based on your personal typing style and preferences.
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