HMX EMO vs. TTC Flame Red
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the TTC Flame Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX EMO and TTC Flame Red mechanical keyboard switches, it's evident that they both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX EMO switch is praised for its lively and clacky feel, along with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing an effortless and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red switch stands out for its visually appealing light diffuser, making it ideal for those with a backlit, RGB keyboard. While the EMO offers a satisfying and smooth typing experience, the Flame Red delivers a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile. 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
54g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX EMO and TTC Flame Red switches, we see that both switches feature a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for its ability to produce a deep and full sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. While both switches share this common feature, the EMO sets itself apart with its polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
On the other hand, the key difference between the two switches lies in their top housing materials. The EMO utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which offers a clear and resonant sound profile. In contrast, the Flame Red features a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This difference in housing materials impacts the overall sound and feel of each switch, with the EMO offering a sharper and crisper sound compared to the Flame Red's softer and fuller sound. Despite this contrast, both switches have nylon bottom housings that contribute to a similar deeper and fuller sound profile when pressing down on the keys.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note how each material influences the sound profile and feel of typing. The split between the bottom and top housing materials in a switch can affect the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. While the HMX EMO and TTC Flame Red switches share a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound, their differing top housing materials showcase how polycarbonate and nylon can produce distinct sound profiles. Ultimately, the choice between these housing materials can cater to individual preferences in typing sound and feel.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, it is evident that the EMO has a lighter feel compared to the Flame Red. The EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Flame Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams. The EMO is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Flame Red offers a slightly heavier feel, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push. In terms of weight, the EMO is the lighter option, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming, while the Flame Red offers a medium-light feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Flame Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Flame Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the EMO. The 3.5 mm travel distance on the EMO provides a quicker response time, making it a preferred choice for gamers who prioritize speed. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance on the Flame Red offers a more substantial depth when typing, which some users may find more comfortable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and typing experience.
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 TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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
Overall, the HMX EMO linear switch offers a lively and bouncy typing experience with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a smooth and effortless feel. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red linear switch provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, along with a dazzling light diffuser for those who enjoy backlighting on their keyboards. While the sound and feel of each switch may appeal to different preferences, both switches offer qualities that make them suitable for a wide range of users, whether beginner or advanced. Additionally, the EMO switch is exceptionally factory-lubed, while the Flame Red switch is known for its polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience, and users can expect similar results in terms of overall performance and quality.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, consider the following guidelines. You may want to choose the HMX EMO if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a lively, clacky typing experience with an effortless and bouncy feel. On the other hand, opt for the TTC Flame Red if you appreciate a slightly heavier bottom out force and value a smooth, weighty typing experience with a visually appealing light diffuser for RGB keyboards. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will come down to your preference for bottom out force, typing experience, and visual aesthetics. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best aligns with your typing style and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
