HMX EMO vs. TTC Gold Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the TTC Gold Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the HMX EMO and the TTC Gold Silver, both linear switches. The HMX EMO is renowned for its lively, clacky feel and feather-light 46g bottom-out force, offering an effortless and bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver stands out for its rapid responsiveness, providing a solid bottom-out and a resonant sound signature with each keystroke. While the EMO emphasizes a light and effortless typing experience, the Gold Silver emphasizes speed, precision, and fluidity. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 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
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
18mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the TTC Gold Silver, both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffness. The use of polycarbonate is also aesthetically pleasing, especially when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the EMO utilizes a nylon bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Gold Silver's polycarbonate bottom housing, which absorbs less sound and contributes to a clearer and brighter sound profile.
While both switches have similar top housing materials, the difference lies in their bottom housing materials. The EMO's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound experience, while the Gold Silver's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a clearer and brighter sound. The split between top and bottom housing materials affects the overall sound and feel of the switch when typing. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a role in the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in switches like the HMX EMO and TTC Gold Silver plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. While both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, the difference in bottom housing material results in distinct sound profiles. The EMO's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Gold Silver's polycarbonate bottom housing produces a clearer and brighter sound. Understanding how each housing material impacts the sound profile can help users choose a switch that aligns with their preferences for typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, some differences become apparent. The actuation force of the EMO is 40 grams, slightly lighter than the Gold Silver's 45 grams. The bottom out force of the EMO is also lighter at 46 grams, while the Gold Silver's bottom out force is unknown. Both switches offer a relatively light actuation force, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, the EMO's slightly lighter bottom out force may provide a softer typing feel compared to the Gold Silver, which lacks information on its bottom out force. Overall, the EMO is the lighter of the two switches, offering a lighter actuation and bottom out force compared to the Gold Silver.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. Both switches offer a consistent and comfortable typing experience due to their identical travel distances. Whether you choose the HMX EMO or the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, you can expect similar results in terms of key travel distance.
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 Silver 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 Silver 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 offers a lively and clacky typing experience, while the TTC Gold Silver switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound profile. The EMO switch delivers a more distinct and satisfying sound, reminiscent of a bouncy and smooth keystroke, while the Gold Silver switch offers a deep and rich tone with each press. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound, as both switches provide unique acoustic qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience based on individual preference, board choice, and keycaps.
Regarding feel, the HMX EMO switch is praised for its feather-light 46g bottom-out force and smooth, bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver switch is described as polished, silky, mild, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing feel with reduced friction and minimal resistance. The EMO switch gives a more lively and effortless typing experience, while the Gold Silver switch provides a more refined and seamless keystroke. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable and satisfying typing experience, with slight differences in overall feel that cater to different preferences based on typing style and tactile preferences.
In conclusion, the HMX EMO linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch offer distinct qualities in sound and feel that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The EMO switch delivers a lively and bouncy typing experience with a satisfying sound profile, while the Gold Silver switch provides a polished and smooth keystroke with a thocky and low-pitched sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, as both switches offer exceptional qualities that enhance the typing experience. Regardless of the choice, users can expect a high level of quality and satisfaction from both switches, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, consider your typing preferences and priorities. If you prefer a lighter tactile feel with a lively and bouncy typing experience, the HMX EMO switch with its 46g bottom-out force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize rapid responsiveness and a decisive bottom-out with a smooth and fluid typing experience, the TTC Gold Silver switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on whether you value a feather-light feel or a solid and swift typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and typing style for an optimal keyboarding experience.
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