HMX EMO vs. TTC Ice

Overview

When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two notable linear options stand out: the HMX EMO and the TTC Ice. The HMX EMO switches are renowned for their lively, clacky feel and feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing a bouncy and effortless typing experience that many users find satisfying and smooth. Their exceptional factory lubrication further enhances their polished performance, making them a delightful choice for those seeking a responsive and easy-to-press feel. On the other hand, the TTC Ice switches showcase a stunning transparent design while delivering a smooth, responsive typing experience complemented by a satisfying bottom-out sound. These switches strike a balance between gaming and everyday use, appealing to those who enjoy a feathery feel without sacrificing performance. Each switch has its unique characteristics that cater to various preferences and typing styles; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX EMO Linear

TTC Ice Linear

$3.49

$2.79 per 10

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the HMX EMO and the TTC Ice switches demonstrate both similarities and differences that significantly influence their overall acoustic properties. Both switches feature polycarbonate as their top housing material, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This similarity ensures that whether one opts for the EMO or the Ice, the top-mounted sound characteristics remain quite alike. The translucency of polycarbonate not only enhances the visual appeal when RGB lighting is utilized but also plays a pivotal role in resulting in a clear and resonant sound profile. Consequently, users seeking a bright and vivid auditory experience will likely enjoy comparable results from both switches due to their identical top housing materials.

In contrast, the bottom housing of the two switches sets them apart significantly. The HMX EMO utilizes a nylon bottom housing, characterized by its softer plastic that absorbs sound, thus providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material choice affects the tactile experience, resulting in a bottom-out sound that is more muted and rounded. On the other hand, the TTC Ice employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, which maintains the same stiffer characteristics as the top housing. This choice leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile at the bottom-out point, resulting in a more pronounced auditory feedback. The differing nature of the bottom housing materials leads to distinct acoustic experiences between the two switches, particularly when users press down and release a key.

Overall, the combined effect of the different housing materials in the HMX EMO and the TTC Ice ultimately results in a unique sound experience, shaped by their respective top and bottom configurations. While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing which creates high-pitched clarity, the nylon bottom of the EMO brings depth and warmth, contrasting sharply against the Ice’s polycarbonate bottom, which maintains a sharper sound. Consequently, the EMO's design delivers a harmonious blend of resonance and fullness, while the Ice offers a brighter and more pronounced acoustic experience. For users looking for a specific sound signature, understanding these differences will guide their choice in selecting the ideal switch for their typing preferences.

Weight

When comparing the HMX EMO linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, the actuation and bottom out forces reveal distinct preferences for typists and gamers. The EMO switch features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it suitable for lengthy typing sessions or gaming due to its ease of use. In contrast, the TTC Ice switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, offering a more substantial feel that could be preferred by those who favor a firmer typing experience. As a result, while the EMO switch is the lighter option, providing less resistance, the Ice switch falls into a medium category with greater force requirements. If a user desires a switch with a heavier feel for a more pronounced tactile experience, the TTC Ice switch would be the better choice, whereas the EMO is ideal for those prioritizing lightness and comfort over extended periods.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, we find that the EMO features a distance of 3.5 mm, while the Ice has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the EMO is the shorter option, which may be preferable for gamers seeking quicker response times due to the reduced distance they need to press down. In contrast, the Ice, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial feel, appealing to those who prefer a deeper engagement while typing or gaming. Although the differences in travel distances are minimal, the choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences for responsiveness or key depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the HMX EMO linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, each offers a distinct auditory experience. The EMO switch is characterized by a high-pitched sound, producing sharp and crisp audio feedback when pressed. This makes it an appealing option for those who appreciate a brighter acoustics that stands in contrast to the bass-heavy profiles found with some other switches. In contrast, the Ice switch is noted for its clacky nature, which produces a snappy, percussive sound on actuation. This results in a distinctly lively sound that can be satisfying for users who enjoy that immediate auditory reward from their keystrokes. However, it's essential to remember that sound production is also influenced by the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used, so the actual experience may vary.

In terms of tactile feedback, the EMO switch excels with its bouncy and polished feel, giving a spring-like sensation coupled with a smooth typing experience due to its refined finish and factory lubing. This combination results in minimal friction, allowing for effortless key presses that enhance overall typing comfort and reduce finger fatigue during long sessions. Meanwhile, the Ice switch, while smoother and responsive, is described as feathery, requiring very little effort to actuate. This attribute makes it particularly appealing for prolonged use, as users can enjoy a light touch without straining their fingers, making it suitable for both gaming marathons and extensive work tasks alike. Thus, while both switches promote a comfortable typing experience, the EMO offers a more pronounced tactile feedback, while the Ice focuses on exceptionally light actuation.

In conclusion, both the HMX EMO and TTC Ice linear switches present excellent options for different typing preferences. While the EMO offers a more lively and high-pitched sound complemented by a bouncy and polished feel, the Ice provides a satisfying clack with a feathery actuation that minimizes effort. Depending on the type of experience you seek—whether it's the energetic feedback of the EMO or the ease of the Ice—you can expect a rewarding typing session from either choice. Ultimately, both switches cater to distinct tastes within the mechanical keyboard community, ensuring each user can find a switch that suits their needs.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX EMO linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch will largely depend on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a light actuation with a lively and bouncy feel, the HMX EMO switch, with its 46g bottom-out force, is perfect for you. This switch is ideal for long typing sessions or light gaming, as it minimizes finger fatigue and provides a delightful rebound effect, coupled with a sharp, high-pitched sound that offers a satisfying auditory feedback without being overly heavy. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a switch that balances a moderate actuation force with a smooth and responsive keystroke, the TTC Ice linear switch may be your best bet. With a heavier 60g bottom-out force, it gives a more substantial tactile feedback and a satisfying clacky sound which makes it versatile for both gaming and daily usage. The Ice's premium feel, combined with its attractive transparent design, makes for an aesthetically pleasing addition to any keyboard setup. Ultimately, consider how you want to balance lightness and responsiveness in your typing experience when making your decision between these two switches.

Mentioned in this article

HMX EMO Linear

$3.49

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

TTC Ice Linear

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn more