Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. HMX EMO
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the HMX EMO switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch to the HMX EMO linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX EMO switch offers a lively and clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, delivering an effortless and bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. Each switch has its own set of qualities that appeal to different types of typists. 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
48g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the HMX EMO, it is evident that they both feature polycarbonate top housings. This means that both keyboards will produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. Additionally, the use of a clear housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, the V3 Crystal Pro's use of polycarbonate for the bottom housing while the EMO utilizes nylon will result in different sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing of the EMO will create a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than polycarbonate.
Despite both keyboards featuring polycarbonate top housings, the V3 Crystal Pro and the HMX EMO differ in their choice of bottom housing material. While the V3 Crystal Pro employs polycarbonate for the bottom housing as well, leading to a clear and resonant sound profile, the EMO's nylon bottom housing will result in a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials will impact the overall sound and feel of each keyboard when keys are pressed down, with the V3 Crystal Pro offering a crisper lower-out sound and the EMO producing a fuller, deeper tone. Additionally, the impact of the top housing material will be more prominent when keys are released, influencing the sound produced when key strokes are completed.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in keyboards such as the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the HMX EMO can significantly impact the sound profile and typing experience. While both keyboards feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound, the difference in bottom housing materials leads to distinct sound profiles. The V3 Crystal Pro's use of polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings results in a consistent crisp sound, while the EMO's combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a more varied sound experience. Ultimately, the selection of housing materials in a keyboard can cater to different preferences in sound and feel for users.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams compared to the HMX EMO linear switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro requires 60 grams of force, while the EMO only requires 46 grams. This means that the V3 Crystal Pro provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the EMO for longer typing sessions or gaming. Overall, the V3 Crystal Pro is slightly heavier in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the EMO, providing a different typing experience for users with varying preferences.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the EMO linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. The difference may not be significant, but it could potentially impact the feel of the switch when typing or gaming. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the EMO switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the V3 Crystal Pro switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch stands out for its bright and chirpy sound signature, providing a unique acoustic experience that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the HMX EMO linear switch offers a lively and clacky feel with a feather-light bottom-out force, delivering a satisfying and smooth typing experience. When it comes to feel, the V3 Crystal Pro offers a bouncy and polished typing experience, thanks to its fully polycarbonate construction and smooth key travel. While the specific feel of the EMO switch is not described, it is known for being factory-lubed and providing an effortless typing experience.
Overall, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and HMX EMO linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The V3 Crystal Pro provides a chirpy sound and bouncy, polished feel, while the EMO switch delivers a clacky sound and a light, smooth typing experience. Depending on personal preference and typing style, both switches offer a unique and enjoyable typing experience. If you enjoy the characteristics of one switch, you can expect similar results with the other in terms of overall performance and satisfaction. It is recommended to try out both switches to determine which one best suits your typing needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and crave a lively, clacky feel with an effortless, bouncy typing experience that is exceptionally factory-lubed, then the HMX EMO switch might be more suited to your preferences. Remember to take into account both the sound and feel characteristics of each switch to make an informed decision based on your typing preferences and needs. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile.
Mentioned in this article
