HMX EMO vs. KTT Peach
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the KTT Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and KTT Peach linear switches stand out as top contenders. The HMX EMO switch offers a lively, clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing an effortless and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Peach switches boast a syrupy smooth typing experience and a deep, thocky sound profile. While the EMO switch is best known for its satisfying and smooth feel, the Peach switch is favored for its low-pitched, neutral, and mild characteristics. 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
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The HMX EMO and KTT Peach both utilize polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of the material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on switches with polycarbonate top housing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. The similarities in the polycarbonate top housing of both switches mean that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
While both the EMO and Peach share the polycarbonate top housing, they differ in the material used for their bottom housing. The EMO features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Peach also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a more muted and round sound when typing, distinguishing them from other switch options.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it's important to note that the qualities of each material will influence different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing, whether made of nylon or polycarbonate, will affect the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed. On the other hand, the top housing, also constructed from polycarbonate in both switches, will influence the sound produced when releasing a key. This split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience that combines the unique characteristics of both materials.
Weight
The HMX EMO linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the KTT Peach linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. The EMO switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter keystroke feel for longer typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Peach switch offers a slightly more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience with similar actuation characteristics, ensuring that users will get consistent results regardless of the choice they make. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force feedback.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Peach linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The EMO has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Peach. A shorter travel distance typically results in faster response times, making it a preferred choice for gamers. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying and tactile typing experience for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 Peach comes in at $2.91 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 linear switch offers a lively and clacky typing experience, while the KTT Peach linear switch provides a more low-pitched and thocky sound profile. The EMO switch may produce a more distinctive and vibrant sound compared to the Peach switch, which offers a deeper and more mellow tone. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the HMX EMO linear switch is known for its bouncy and light 46g bottom-out force, delivering an effortless and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Peach linear switch offers a mild typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Both switches are smooth in their operation, but the EMO switch may offer a bit more bounce and liveliness compared to the Peach switch.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a linear switch with a vibrant and clacky sound profile coupled with a bouncy and light typing feel, the HMX EMO switch may be the best choice for you. However, if you prefer a more low-pitched and thocky sound along with a mild and gentle typing experience, the KTT Peach switch would be a great option. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. Both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different tastes, so you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either one.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a bouncy typing experience with a clacky feel, the HMX EMO switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly more medium-light bottom-out force and a smooth typing experience with a deep, thocky sound profile, the KTT Peach switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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