HMX EMO vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX EMO linear switch to the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it becomes apparent that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The EMO switch is renowned for its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing a lively and clacky typing experience that is exceptionally factory-lubed for smoothness. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switch stands out for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, offering a pleasing tactile experience with a crisp quality to each keystroke. While the EMO switch is characterized as bouncy and clacky, the Piano Pro switch is known for being creamy, polished, and resonant. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference 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
45g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, we see that the EMO features a polycarbonate top housing while the V3 Piano Pro has a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the EMO creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, while the nylon top housing of the V3 Piano Pro elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature. Both housing materials have their own unique qualities that contribute to the overall sound characteristics of the switches.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the EMO and the V3 Piano Pro use nylon. This commonality suggests that both switches will exhibit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics. While the top housing of a switch impacts the sound when letting go of a key, the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Therefore, despite having different top housing materials, the switches may still produce similar sound profiles due to their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in determining the sound characteristics experienced by users. The polycarbonate top housing of the HMX EMO offers a clearer and more resonant sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Akko V3 Piano Pro creates a deeper and fuller sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a duller and rounder sound profile. Understanding how different materials impact sound production can help enthusiasts make informed decisions when selecting switches for their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The HMX EMO linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, which requires 45 grams. On the other hand, the EMO has a lighter bottom out force of 46 grams, while the V3 Piano Pro has a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the EMO switch offers a lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter feel for longer typing sessions. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro switch provides a slightly heavier typing experience, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial key press. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the HMX EMO and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switches have an equal travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity allows for a consistent typing experience across both switches. The equal travel distance of both switches ensures that users will get a similar tactile feedback and actuation point, making it a matter of personal preference rather than a significant difference in performance between the two.
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 Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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 is known for its lively and clacky sound profile, creating a sharp and percussive noise with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch offers a snappy and resonant sound signature, with a higher-pitched sound that adds a crisp and immersive auditory experience to typing sessions. Both switches provide a satisfying auditory feedback that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the HMX EMO switch is described as providing a bouncy and smooth typing experience, thanks to its feather-light 46g bottom-out force and exceptional factory lubrication. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch is known for its bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel, offering a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery typing experience. Both switches aim to deliver a pleasant tactile feedback that enhances typing speed and accuracy, catering to different preferences in key feel.
Overall, both the HMX EMO linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the EMO switch focuses on a clacky sound profile and a bouncy typing experience, the Piano Pro switch provides a snappy sound signature with a smooth and creamy feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience that caters to a variety of typists. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HMX EMO linear switch or the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in typing experience. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and enjoy a bouncy, clacky feel with a smooth and satisfying typing experience, then the HMX EMO switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force and appreciate a snappy, resonant sound signature with a tactile yet smooth actuation, then the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch may be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a lively, clacky feel or a snappy, resonant sound in your mechanical keyboard.
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