TTC Bluish White vs. HMX EMO
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the HMX EMO switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Bluish White and HMX EMO stand out as popular choices with their own unique characteristics. The Bluish White is a tactile switch loved for its satisfyingly poppy typing experience and snappy sound profile, making it a great option for those who enjoy a tactile feedback while typing. On the other hand, the HMX EMO is a linear switch known for its lively and clacky feel, paired with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force for a bouncy and smooth typing experience. Each switch offers something different - the Bluish White for its tactile feedback and sound profile, and the HMX EMO for its smoothness and lightness. 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
42g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Bluish White and the HMX EMO both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. While both switches share this characteristic, the difference lies in their bottom housings. The Bluish White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the EMO also features a nylon bottom housing, offering the same deep and full sound profile as the Bluish White.
Despite the similarities in their top and bottom housings, the TTC Bluish White and the HMX EMO differ in their overall typing experience. When pressed, the switch utilizing the nylon bottom housing will provide a deeper, fuller sound and feel, while the impact of the sound when letting go of a key is influenced more by the top housing material. The split qualities of each housing material contribute to a unique typing experience for each switch. Both switches leverage the benefits of polycarbonate for a clear and resonant sound profile, but the use of nylon in the bottom housing distinguishes their sound characteristics.
In conclusion, the TTC Bluish White and the HMX EMO showcase the impact of different housing materials on the overall sound profile of a switch. While both switches benefit from the stiffer polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound, the nylon bottom housing of each switch provides a deeper and fuller typing experience. The combination of these materials results in distinct sound profiles that cater to individual preferences. Whether it's the crisper sound of the polycarbonate top or the fuller sound of the nylon bottom, both switches offer a unique typing experience that can be tailored to suit different preferences.
Weight
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the HMX EMO linear switch both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces. The Bluish White has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams. Both switches are on the lighter side, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. However, the Bluish White is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the EMO. This difference may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, whether a lighter or heavier force is preferred depends on individual preference and typing style. Nonetheless, both switches offer a comfortable and responsive typing experience that should satisfy most users.
Travel distance
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the HMX EMO linear switch both have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same amount of travel distance. In terms of comparing and contrasting, since they both have the same travel distance, users can expect similar typing experiences in terms of key travel. Both switches offer a consistent level of feedback and actuation at the same distance, making them suitable options for those who prefer a standard key feel. Overall, the travel distance of both the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the HMX EMO linear switch is equal, providing users with a consistent typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
The HMX EMO has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EMO for $2.79.
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 TTC Bluish White switch offers a low-pitched and satisfyingly poppy typing experience, which is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the HMX EMO switch's sound characteristics are unknown. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Bluish White is described as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a gentle resistance. The slight pre-travel and post-travel of the switch provide a mild tactile feedback that can be enjoyed by most users. The EMO switch, on the other hand, is known for its lively and clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing an effortless and bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth.
Overall, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the HMX EMO linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Bluish White provides a low-pitched and buttery typing experience, the EMO switch offers a lively and clacky feel with a factory-lubed, smooth keystroke. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose either switch to achieve a satisfying typing experience. If you prefer a more bass-heavy and mellow sound with a buttery feel, the Bluish White may be the way to go. Conversely, if you enjoy a clacky and lively typing experience with a feather-light bottom-out force, the HMX EMO switch could be the better option. Ultimately, both switches will provide high-quality typing experiences, with the choice depending on personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between TTC Bluish White tactile switches and HMX EMO linear switches, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you desire a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile and a buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished feel, then the Bluish White switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lively, clacky feel with a feather-light bottom-out force and exceptional factory-lubing for an effortless, bouncy typing experience, then the EMO switches are the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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