HMX EMO vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the HMX EMO and the KTT Lightning mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs. The HMX EMO switch is lauded for its lively and bouncy typing experience, thanks to its feather-light 46g bottom-out force and exceptional factory-lubing. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning switch stands out for its speed and agility, making it ideal for competitive gaming where milliseconds can make a difference. While the EMO switch offers a satisfying and smooth typing experience, the Lightning switch provides a slick and clacky feel with a high-pitched sound profile. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.00 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 KTT Lightning both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, creating a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate is often used in switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, the EMO and Lightning differ in their bottom housing material, with the EMO using nylon. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
While both switches benefit from the qualities of polycarbonate in the top housing, the split between the bottom and top housing materials affects the overall sound and feel of the switches. The EMO's nylon bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, adding a deeper and fuller tonality to key presses. In contrast, the Lightning's polycarbonate bottom housing may offer a crisper and sharper sound when keys are released. These differences in housing materials showcase how the combination of polycarbonate and nylon can create unique sound profiles in mechanical keyboards.
Ultimately, the choice between the HMX EMO and KTT Lightning comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. The EMO's use of nylon in the bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller typing experience, while the Lightning's polycarbonate housing may offer a sharper and more resonant sound profile. Both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound and feel of mechanical keyboards, allowing users to tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
Weight
The HMX EMO linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the KTT Lightning linear switch's actuation force of 43 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the EMO requires 46 grams while the Lightning needs 50 grams to bottom out. Both switches have light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. Those who enjoy a slightly heavier typing feel may find the KTT Lightning switch more to their liking due to its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm. This makes the Lightning switch slightly shorter in travel distance compared to the EMO switch. Both switches offer shorter travel distances compared to the more traditional 4.0mm distance, with the Lightning switch being the more shallow of the two. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Lightning switch a popular choice in that aspect. However, some may find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt, in which case the EMO switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be a better option for those looking for a more substantial depth in key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and how it affects typing or gaming 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 Lightning comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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 HMX EMO switch is known for its lively and clacky sound profile, providing a satisfying and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning switch is described as clacky, high-pitched, and chirpy, delivering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Depending on personal preference, users may find the EMO to have a more subdued sound compared to the Lightning's brighter and more percussive tones.
In terms of feel, the HMX EMO switch offers a bouncy and effortless typing experience with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. The factory-lubed EMO switch provides a smooth and tactile feedback that many users find enjoyable. Conversely, the KTT Lightning switch is described as subtle and polished, offering a gentle resistance and smooth key travel for a sleek typing experience. Users who prefer a more refined and light typing feel may gravitate towards the Lightning switch.
Overall, both the HMX EMO and KTT Lightning switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the EMO switch provides a lively and clacky sound along with a bouncy typing feel, the Lightning switch offers a sharper sound profile and a more polished typing experience. Depending on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both, choosing between the two switches will ultimately come down to personal preference. However, given the similar linear nature of both switches, users can expect a consistent and smooth typing experience regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, consider the bottom out force as a key factor. If you prefer a lighter touch, the EMO with its 46g bottom out force may be the ideal choice for you. The EMO provides a bouncy and satisfying typing experience while being factory-lubed for smooth key travel. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that can potentially give you an edge in fast-paced situations where milliseconds matter, the Lightning with its 50g bottom out force might be more suitable. The Lightning offers a slick type feel and a clacky sound profile, making it a great option for those who value speed and precision in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between the EMO and Lightning will depend on your preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
Mentioned in this article
