HMX EMO vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX EMO linear switch with the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, we see two unique options with their own standout features. The HMX EMO is best known for its lively and clacky feel, combined with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, offering an effortless and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro is prized for its versatility, providing a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature that fits well in any auditory environment. While the EMO excels in delivering a satisfying and smooth typing experience, the Gold Red Pro stands out for its adaptability and versatility in various settings. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX EMO and TTC Gold Red Pro switches are quite similar in terms of both their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for RGB lighting effects, making it a popular choice for keyboard enthusiasts looking to customize their setup. In terms of aesthetics and sound profile, users can expect a consistent experience with either switch due to their shared top housing material.
However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The HMX EMO features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience to the HMX EMO with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite the differences in material for the bottom housing, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel.
In conclusion, while both the HMX EMO and TTC Gold Red Pro switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a consistent sound profile, they diverge in their bottom housing material. The nylon bottom housing of both switches offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a unique typing experience that appeals to users looking for a specific sound and feel. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of the polycarbonate top housing or the fuller sound of the nylon bottom housing, both switches provide a customizable typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, it is evident that the EMO is the lighter option with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro is the heavier option with an actuation force of 43 grams and an unknown bottom out force. The lighter actuation force of the EMO may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier actuation force of the Gold Red Pro may be more suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. However, without information on the bottom out force of the Gold Red Pro, it is difficult to make a direct comparison in terms of bottoming out. Overall, those seeking a lighter typing feel may gravitate towards the EMO, while those looking for a heavier keystroke experience may lean towards the Gold Red Pro.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Gold Red Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the EMO. Despite this difference, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which are popular among gamers for their quick response times. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may opt for the Gold Red Pro, while those looking for a shorter and more responsive feel may lean towards the EMO. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, providing a smooth typing experience for users.
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 Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 is known for its lively and clacky sound profile, providing a satisfyingly bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro switch offers a neutral sound signature that strikes a harmonious balance, making it suitable for a variety of settings. The EMO switch may be preferred for those seeking a more pronounced and energetic sound, while the Gold Red Pro switch appeals to users who prefer a more mellow and versatile auditory experience. However, the actual sound produced also heavily depends on the keyboard layout, keycaps, and other factors.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO switch is described as providing a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, delivering an effortless and smooth typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red Pro switch is praised for its polished and silky feel, resulting in a refined and smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. While the EMO switch may be favored by those seeking a light and bouncy typing feel, the Gold Red Pro switch offers a more subtle and approachable typing experience suitable for various preferences. Both switches provide a comfortable and satisfying typing sensation, catering to different tactile preferences.
Overall, the HMX EMO linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The EMO switch provides a lively and clacky sound with a feather-light typing feel, while the Gold Red Pro switch offers a neutral sound profile and a polished, silky typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a fantastic typing experience. However, both switches are versatile and adaptable, ensuring that you can achieve a satisfactory typing experience regardless of your choice. Ultimately, whether you opt for the HMX EMO or the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, you can expect a high-quality and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HMX EMO linear switch or the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, you should take into account the specific characteristics and preferences that align with your typing style and environment. If you value a light 46g bottom-out force and a bouncy, clacky feel, the HMX EMO switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a versatile switch with ease of press, neutral sound signature, and adaptability for various settings, the TTC Gold Red Pro switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and which features align best with your typing habits and desired experience.
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