HMX EMO vs. TTC Gold Pink
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the TTC Gold Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and TTC Gold Pink both offer unique characteristics to consider. The HMX EMO switch is known for its lively and clacky feel, with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing a bouncy and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Pink switch boasts a mere 37g actuation force, making it one of the lightest switches available, perfect for those who prioritize rapid typing or gaming. Both switches offer a level of feedback and sound that adds to the overall typing experience. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX EMO and TTC Gold Pink both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. The similarities in the top housing material of these two switches will result in similar sound characteristics and aesthetic benefits when typing.
On the other hand, the HMX EMO has a nylon bottom housing, while the TTC Gold Pink also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. With both switches sharing the same bottom housing material, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel when pressing down on the keys.
In terms of typing experience, the qualities of the housing materials are divided between the bottom and top housings of a switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when you press down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when you release the key. Despite differences in their bottom housings, the similarities in the top polycarbonate housings of the HMX EMO and TTC Gold Pink will likely result in comparable sound profiles and typing experiences overall.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, we can see that both switches have relatively light forces. The EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Gold Pink has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. In this case, both switches are quite similar in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, so users can expect to get similar results in terms of typing experience. When considering weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of these switches for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions. However, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for a switch with heavier forces. Overall, both the HMX EMO and the TTC Gold Pink switches provide a light typing experience with slight variations in actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch. The EMO switch offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for fast inputs. On the other hand, the Gold Pink switch provides a deeper keystroke feel with its longer travel distance, appealing to users who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, so the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of responsiveness and tactile feel.
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 Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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 HMX EMO switch offers a clacky and lively typing experience, while the TTC Gold Pink switch provides a satisfying clacky sound that adds to the overall typing feedback. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
As for the feel, the HMX EMO switch is best known for its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing a bouncy and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Pink switch is described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. This means that the Gold Pink switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke, a gentle typing experience, a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue, a gentle resistance with a light typing feel, and a sleek typing experience due to factory lubing.
Taking all the available information into consideration, both the HMX EMO and TTC Gold Pink switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the EMO switch provides a lively and clacky typing experience with a feather-light bottom-out force, the Gold Pink switch delivers a light and satisfying typing experience with a range of qualities that enhance the overall feel. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the HMX EMO if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 46 grams, along with a lively and clacky typing experience that is smooth and satisfying. On the other hand, opt for the TTC Gold Pink if you appreciate an even lighter bottom out force of 45 grams and value a fast and effortless typing or gaming experience with a satisfying level of feedback and a clacky sound. Both switches offer unique characteristics tailored to different preferences, so ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences.
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