HMX EMO vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and KTT Purple Star stand out as popular linear options. The HMX EMO switch is celebrated for its lively and clacky feel, offering a feather-light 46g bottom-out force for a bouncy and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star switches are renowned for their buttery smooth feel due to their all-POM construction, perfect for those seeking a neutral sound signature. With a very light 45g bottom-out force, the Purple Star switches cater to light typists, providing ease and comfort during extended typing sessions. Both switches offer unique benefits, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
1.80 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX EMO and KTT Purple Star differ in their choice of housing materials, specifically in their top and bottom housings. The EMO utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness and resonant qualities. On the other hand, the Purple Star opts for a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. Both switches offer unique sound profiles, but the EMO's polycarbonate top housing emphasizes clarity and crispness, while the Purple Star's POM top housing leans towards a richer and deeper sound experience.
In terms of bottom housings, the EMO features a nylon material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the Purple Star's POM bottom housing offers a unique and pleasing sound profile on the deeper end, contributing to a more muted sound overall. While both switches showcase different housing materials for their bottom housings, they both aim to enhance the user's typing experience with unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches like the HMX EMO and KTT Purple Star plays a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience. While the EMO may offer a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, the Purple Star provides a deeper and more muted sound with its POM top and bottom housings. Despite these differences, both switches prioritize creating a unique and enjoyable typing experience for users, showcasing the varying impact of different housing materials on sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is evident that both switches have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX EMO linear switch has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches provide a smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. The slight difference in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches may not be significant enough to produce noticeably different results for the user. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel and performance when using either the HMX EMO or the KTT Purple Star linear switch. Overall, both switches offer a lightweight typing experience, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming.
Travel distance
Both the HMX EMO linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that whether you are using the EMO or the Purple Star, you will experience a similar keypress feel in terms of travel distance. The equal travel distance of 3.5 mm ensures consistency in typing experience between the two switches. As a result, users can expect a similar level of tactile feedback and responsiveness regardless of whether they are using the HMX EMO or the KTT Purple Star linear switch.
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 Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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
In terms of sound, the EMO switch offers a lively and clacky typing experience, while the Purple Star switch provides a low-pitched and mellow tone. The EMO may be more noticeable in a room with its lively sound, whereas the Purple Star switch offers a quieter typing experience. Both switches can be further affected by the keyboard and keycaps used, so it's important to consider these factors when choosing between the two.
When it comes to feel, the EMO switch provides a bouncy and satisfying typing experience with its feather-light 46g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Purple Star switch offers a mild and easy-to-press typing feel, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Both switches fall into a middle-ground zone in terms of feel, providing a balance between responsiveness and comfort for users.
Overall, the HMX EMO and KTT Purple Star switches both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the EMO switch may appeal to those looking for a livelier typing experience, the Purple Star switch caters to individuals who prefer a more gentle and easy-to-press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, typing style, and desired sound and feel. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a satisfying typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you are looking for a lively, clacky feel with a feather-light bottom-out force and a smooth typing experience, the HMX EMO switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature and very light bottom-out force ideal for light typists, the KTT Purple Star switch would be more fitting. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prioritize a bouncy, satisfying feel or a gentle, easy-to-press typing experience in your mechanical keyboard switches. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles, so choose the one that best suits your preferences.
Mentioned in this article
