The Keygeek MZ Z1 and HMX Emo switches are both standard MX mechanical switches of the linear breed. They both feature PC top housing, LY stem material, standard stem shape, 2 mm pre-travel, however, they come with different bottom housing (PA12 Nylon vs P2), spring (22 mm double-stage vs 22 mm single-stage), actuation (48 g vs 40 g), bottom-out force (53 g vs 46 g), total travel (3.60 mm vs 3.50 mm). That said, they are only slightly similar. Let's check out this side-by-side specs rundawn with details, availability -- and even current prices -- to figure out which one fits you the best!
The Keygeek MZ Z1 is a linear standard MX mechanical switch with PC top housing, PA12 Nylon bottom housing, and LY stem (standard shape). It features a 22 mm double-stage spring. The 48g actuation occurs at 2mm. The 53g bottom-out occurs at 3.60mm. Factory lubing? Yes! Designed by MZ Studio. Manufactured by Keygeek. | The HMX Emo is a linear standard MX mechanical switch with PC top housing, P2 bottom housing, and LY stem (standard shape). It features a 22 mm single-stage spring. The 40g actuation occurs at 2mm. The 46g bottom-out occurs at 3.50mm. Long pole. Factory lubing? Yes! Manufactured by HMX. |
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| Name | Keygeek MZ Z1 | HMX Emo |
|---|---|---|
| Type | linear | linear |
| Footprint | 5-pin | 5-pin |
| Top housing | PC | PC |
| Bottom housing | PA12 Nylon | P2 |
| Stem material | LY | LY |
| Stem shape | standard | standard |
| Spring | 22 mm double-stage | 22 mm single-stage |
| Actuation | 48 g | 40 g |
| Bottom-out | 53 g | 46 g |
| Pre-travel | 2 mm | 2 mm |
| Total travel | 3.60 mm | 3.50 mm |
| Lube | Factory lubing? Yes! | Factory lubing? Yes! |
| Designer | MZ Studio | - |
| Manufacturer | Keygeek | HMX |
By tracking prices and in-stock status of 30+ well-known keyboard stores worldwide, we can state that the Keygeek MZ Z1 is much more widely available, but the HMX Emo is also available in stores.
Clicking the links below take you to some notable keyboard shops offering Keygeek MZ Z1 and HMX Emo switches. When accepted, the prices indicated already include the discount - use the KBDNEWS coupon code at checkout to claim your saving!
Prices, discounts, and stock status are checked regularly; however, changes since the last update cannot be ruled out. Everything here is for informational purposes only. Check the product pages for the latest prices!
Keygeek MZ Z1 sound test | HMX Emo sound test |
Comments on Keygeek MZ Z1 switches | Comments on HMX Emo switches |
The MZ Z1 delivers a marbly sound profile that’s smooth and satisfying with every keystroke. MZ Studio, known for the popular Keygeek Y2 and Y3 switches, brings their expertise to the Keygeek Z1, creating a switch with a smooth feel and a marbly sound – LumeKeebs. | The Emo switches have a unique sound profile compared to other HMX switches, the emo is a quieter and less high pitched than other HMX long poles. They still have that satisfying clack, but its more pleasant to the ears whilst having a softer and less jarring bottom-out. They still are a HMX switch so expect the usual fantastic lubing, and a great stock experience. Another Rassles recommendation, please buy so I don't have to fire her – Keebz N Cables. At first, I thought the EMO switches were a re-color of the Cloud switches. That was also the reason why Unikeys didn't stock them after they were released. It was only after I tried them myself and noticed that they sound and feel quite different from most HMX switches there is. The difference might not be too significant to some but here they are: They are not as loud and high-pitched as most HMX switches. They are still clacky but quite joyful to listen to. The bottom-out feeling is not harsh. They have a comparable softer bottom-out and are very nice to type on. One word I would choose to describe these switches is "subtle". However, they are still an HMX switch. They have all the well-known characters of an HMX switch just a little bit tuned down – Unikeys. |
