HMX EMO vs. KTT F2
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the KTT F2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the HMX EMO, a linear switch, and the KTT F2, also a linear switch. The HMX EMO switch is celebrated for its lively and clacky feel, paired with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. Impressively factory-lubed, this switch provides a seamless and bouncy typing experience, offering both satisfaction and smoothness. On the other hand, the KTT F2 switches stand out for their unique hollow sound signature, creating a distinct auditory experience. With a medium-light weightiness, the F2 switches offer a comfortable typing feel that strikes a balance between being overly forceful or too light. Each keystroke on the F2 switch is met with a lightly textured feel, adding a tactile dimension to every input. While both switches have their own strengths, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX EMO and KTT F2 both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is ideal for switches incorporating RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for vibrant lighting effects. However, the EMO's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the F2's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material can impact the overall typing experience and sound signature of each switch.
Despite both switches using polycarbonate for the top housing, the EMO and F2 may still have distinct characteristics based on their bottom housing material. The EMO's nylon bottom housing enhances the typing experience by creating a deeper sound and a fuller feel, while the F2's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The impact of the bottom housing material can be felt when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing material will affect the sound when releasing a key, demonstrating the importance of both materials in creating a well-rounded typing experience.
In conclusion, while the EMO and F2 share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, their bottom housing materials offer distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The EMO's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the sharper and crisper sound produced by the F2's polycarbonate bottom housing. Understanding the role of each housing material in the overall sound profile and typing feel can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound and tactile feedback in mechanical switches.
Weight
The HMX EMO linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the KTT F2 linear switch, which requires 43 grams of force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the EMO requires 46 grams while the F2 needs 53 grams, making the F2 the heavier option. The lighter actuation force of the EMO may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended use during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the F2 provides a more substantial push feel, which some users may find preferable for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the HMX EMO and the KTT F2 linear switches have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This allows for a consistent typing experience across both switches, as the travel distance remains unchanged. Whether you choose the HMX EMO or the KTT F2 linear switch, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT F2 comes in at $3.90 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 it comes to sound, the HMX EMO switch is best described as neutral, offering a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various environments and typing preferences. On the other hand, the KTT F2 switch provides a subdued sound, offering a more dampened and subtle sound signature compared to most switches. The auditory experience of each switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the HMX EMO switch is known for its feathery lightness, requiring minimal effort to press and reducing finger fatigue over extended typing sessions. The KTT F2 switch, on the other hand, provides a mild and gentle typing experience, striking a balance between comfort and tactile feedback. Additionally, the F2 switch offers a subtly resistant feel, maintaining a light typing experience without producing resonant sounds, making it suitable for shared spaces.
Taking all the available information into consideration, both the HMX EMO and KTT F2 switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the EMO switch provides a lively and bouncy feel with a neutral sound profile, the F2 switch stands out with its distinct hollow sound signature and comfortable medium-light weightiness. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. However, both switches offer a satisfactory typing experience with their respective qualities, ensuring that users will achieve similar results in terms of performance and satisfaction.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the KTT F2 linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you enjoy a light, bouncy typing experience with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, the EMO may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a distinct hollow sound signature, the F2 could be the perfect fit. Both switches offer unique tactile nuances and comfort in typing, so ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. With this in mind, you can make an informed choice between these two excellent linear switches for your mechanical keyboard.
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