HMX EMO vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX EMO linear switch to the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, it's important to note the distinct characteristics that set them apart. The EMO switch is known for its lively, clacky feel and feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing an effortless and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch stands out for its unique auditory blend, offering a high-pitched yet muted sound that strikes a delicate balance between presence and subtlety. With a slightly lighter bottom-out force of 43.5g and the use of Ly for the stem material, the Milk Tea switch is designed for prolonged typing sessions with ease. Each switch has its own strengths and benefits, making it a matter of personal preference when choosing between them. 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
37.5g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the PH Studio Milk Tea, both switches have unique top housing materials that impact the sound profile. The EMO features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Milk Tea uses POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. While the EMO offers a clearer and more resonant sound, the Milk Tea provides a pleasing and unique deep sound that may appeal to different preferences.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the EMO utilizes a nylon material that creates a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Milk Tea also uses POM for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. Both switches share the characteristic of offering a rounder sound profile due to the properties of their respective housing materials. Ultimately, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall typing experience and sound of each switch.
In summary, while the HMX EMO and the PH Studio Milk Tea have contrasting top housing materials with polycarbonate and POM respectively, they both feature bottom housing materials that offer a deeper and fuller sound profile. The differences in sound profiles between the two switches can be attributed to the unique properties of their housing materials. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound or a deeper and more muted sound, both switches offer distinctive typing experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force of the HMX EMO linear switch is slightly heavier than that of the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, with the EMO requiring 40 grams compared to the Milk Tea's 37.5 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the EMO is also slightly heavier at 46 grams compared to the Milk Tea's 43.5 grams. Both switches can be considered lightweight in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. While the EMO provides a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces, the Milk Tea offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a gentler typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, particularly among gamers looking for faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to most users, but for those who prefer a more tactile feel, the Milk Tea switch with its longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for typing feel and responsiveness.
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 PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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 linear switch is best characterized as producing a lively, clacky sound, creating a satisfying and noticeable typing experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a unique auditory blend with a high-pitched yet muted sound profile, striking a gentle balance between presence and subtlety. The sound produced by each switch will be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so individual preferences may play a significant role in this aspect.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO linear switch offers a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing a bouncy and effortlessly smooth typing experience. The factory lubrication enhances the overall feel, making each keystroke pleasant and satisfying. In contrast, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch is described as polished and silky, boasting a smooth and refined finish that minimizes friction and enhances key travel. With a slightly lighter 43.5g bottom-out force, this switch is ideal for extended typing sessions, ensuring comfort and ease of use.
Overall, both the HMX EMO and PH Studio Milk Tea linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the EMO provides a more pronounced and clacky typing experience with a slightly firmer bottom-out force, the Milk Tea switch focuses on a balanced sound profile and a silky smooth feel that promotes effortless typing. Depending on personal preferences and typing needs, either switch can deliver a satisfying and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, whether you opt for the EMO or Milk Tea, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of quality and performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel that best suits your preferences. The EMO switch with its 46g bottom-out force offers a lively and clacky typing experience, ideal for those who enjoy a feather-light touch. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch with a slightly lighter 43.5g bottom-out force provides a unique auditory blend with a high-pitched yet muted sound, perfect for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. Ultimately, your choice should be based on whether you prioritize a bouncy, clacky feel or a smooth, polished typing experience.
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