HMX EMO vs. KTT Hyacinth
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the KTT Hyacinth switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX EMO and KTT Hyacinth mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX EMO switch is renowned for its lively and clacky feel, accompanied by a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing a satisfying and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth boasts a 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to optimize tactile feedback and user comfort by avoiding a hard bottoming-out experience. While the EMO offers a bouncy and effortless typing experience, the Hyacinth prioritizes a balanced combination of tactile feedback, auditory experience, and comfort. 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
56g
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX EMO and the KTT Hyacinth both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this feature in their top housing, they differ in their bottom housing material.
The EMO features a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Hyacinth also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing similar acoustic qualities to the EMO. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches enhances the overall typing experience by contributing to the sound and feel of the switch when pressed.
Despite the differences in their bottom housing material, both the HMX EMO and the KTT Hyacinth benefit from the unique characteristics of polycarbonate in their top housing. While the bottom housing material affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. By combining different housing materials, these switches offer a versatile typing experience that caters to a variety of preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, it's evident that the EMO is lighter in both aspects. The EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Hyacinth has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, making it slightly heavier in comparison. The EMO provides a more effortless keystroke activation and less resistance when bottoming out, which may be favored by users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. However, the Hyacinth offers a slightly stronger push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a higher actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
Both the HMX EMO linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a consistent feel in terms of key press depth between the two switches. The 3.5 mm travel distance provides a medium depth that is not too shallow or too deep, striking a balance that many users appreciate for typing and gaming. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches makes them both reliable options for those who prefer a consistent 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 KTT Hyacinth has an MSRP of $4.03 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hyacinth for $3.75.
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 EMO switch is known for its lively and clacky sound, adding a bit of excitement to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Hyacinth switch is classified as a neutral switch, offering a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various environments. The choice of sound ultimately comes down to personal preference and can be further influenced by the keyboard and keycap setup.
In terms of feel, the EMO switch provides a bouncy and effortless typing experience with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, making it ideal for those who prefer a light touch. Conversely, the Hyacinth switch is described as silky and subtle, offering an exceptionally smooth typing feel with a gentle resistance that is comfortable for extended typing sessions. The decision between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a light and bouncy feel or a smooth and subtle typing experience.
Overall, the EMO and Hyacinth switches offer unique qualities in both sound and feel. While the EMO switch excels in providing a lively and clacky sound with a light typing feel, the Hyacinth switch focuses on delivering a smooth and subtle typing experience with a neutral sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve. Keep in mind that both switches offer exceptional quality and performance, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of your selection.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, you should consider the desired typing experience you want to achieve. If you prefer a lively, clacky feel with a light bottom-out force and smooth typing experience, the HMX EMO switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a neutral actuation force requirement, a moderate sound profile, and a smooth typing experience with a subtle resistance, the KTT Hyacinth switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and bottom-out force.
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