HMX EMO vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the HMX EMO and the KTT Matcha mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The HMX EMO switch offers a linear typing experience with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing a clacky and satisfying feel. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha switch is a tactile option that offers a comfortable and snappy tactility, along with a clean bottom-out sound. While the EMO switch is exceptionally factory-lubed for smooth typing, the Matcha switch stands out for its unique characteristics such as being 'stepped', 'snappy', 'accented', 'clacky', 'feathery', and 'subtle'. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your specific preferences and typing style. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the KTT Matcha, both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the EMO's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a duller and rounder sound. This highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the auditory experience of typing on a mechanical keyboard.
Despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing, the EMO and the Matcha differ in their bottom housing materials. The EMO's nylon bottom housing offers a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper typing sound. In contrast, the Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and crisp sound profile associated with this material. This difference demonstrates how the choice of bottom housing material can affect the overall sound and feel of typing on a mechanical keyboard, with nylon providing a more muffled and rounded sound while polycarbonate produces a clearer and resonant sound.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials for the top and bottom of a switch can influence both the feel and sound of typing. The bottom housing material, whether nylon or polycarbonate, impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the top housing material plays a more significant role in the sound when releasing a key. By understanding the qualities that each housing material brings to the switch, mechanical keyboard enthusiasts can make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have a similar actuation force of 40 grams. However, the EMO has a slightly higher bottom out force of 46 grams, compared to the Matcha's 45 grams. This means that while both switches require a light actuation force, the EMO provides a slightly heavier resistance when fully pressed. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Matcha, as it has a slightly lighter bottom out force. On the other hand, those who enjoy a bit more resistance may opt for the EMO. Overall, both switches offer a relatively light typing experience, making them suitable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Matcha tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the EMO has a shorter travel distance compared to the Matcha. The EMO's 3.5 mm travel distance provides a slightly quicker response time, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster reactions. On the other hand, the Matcha's 4 mm travel distance offers a bit more depth to key presses, which may be more appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on the individual's preference for travel distance and the type of typing experience they are looking for.
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 Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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, which gives a sharp and snappy feedback when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha switch offers a clean bottom-out sound due to its long pole stem, providing a distinct and crisp typing experience. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the HMX EMO switch offers a feathery and bouncy typing experience with a bottom-out force of 46g, making it light and effortless to press. In contrast, the KTT Matcha switch is described as having a stepped feel, providing a comfortable tactility with a snappy response. Additionally, the Matcha switch is also characterized as accented and subtle, offering a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming or too soft.
Taking all the information into consideration, newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world can expect a lively and clacky typing experience with the HMX EMO switch, while the KTT Matcha switch provides a comfortable and snappy tactile feedback. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. Ultimately, whether you choose the EMO or Matcha switch, you can expect a satisfying typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, consider the typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a light and bouncy typing feel with a clacky sound, the EMO switch with its 46g bottom-out force may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a snappy and clean tactile feedback with a subtle sound, the Matcha switch with its 45g bottom-out force and stepped tactility could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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