HMX EMO vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and KTT Semi Mute offer two distinct typing experiences. The HMX EMO is revered for its lively and clacky feel, along with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, making typing effortless and bouncy. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute, despite its name, is completely silent and perfect for those who prioritize a noise-free environment. With advanced dampening technology and a linear actuation, this switch provides a comfortable typing experience. The EMO falls under the category of linear switches, while the Semi Mute is categorized as buttery, mild, muted, or neutral. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
15mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the KTT Semi Mute, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, the EMO features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Semi Mute. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound experience when typing on the EMO switch.
While both switches have polycarbonate top housings that offer similar sound profiles, the difference in bottom housing materials sets them apart. The EMO's nylon bottom housing provides a different typing experience with its deeper and fuller sound profile, emphasizing the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys. On the other hand, the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing complements the top housing's characteristics by enhancing the clear and resonant sound profile of the switch. This showcases how the choice of housing materials can contribute to the overall sound and feel of a mechanical switch.
Ultimately, the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the KTT Semi Mute play a significant role in shaping the typing experience for users. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound profile, the EMO's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Semi Mute. This demonstrates how the combination of different housing materials can influence the overall sound and feel of mechanical switches, providing users with a variety of options to tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX EMO linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it is evident that the EMO is lighter in both aspects. The EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Semi Mute has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, offering a slightly heavier feel. Those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Semi Mute due to its higher bottom out force. However, for individuals who prefer lighter switches for longer typing or gaming sessions, the EMO would be the preferred choice. In the end, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it is evident that the EMO has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Semi Mute has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The EMO provides a quicker response time, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize faster reaction speeds. On the other hand, the Semi Mute offers a more substantial keypress depth, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the EMO being ideal for speed and efficiency, while the Semi Mute appeals to those who value a deeper keypress sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired feel when typing.
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 Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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 switch offers a lively and clacky typing experience, while the KTT Semi Mute switch provides a muted and quiet operation. The EMO switch may be more audible due to its lively nature, whereas the Semi Mute switch is designed for those who prioritize a noise-free environment. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by the keyboard they are installed in and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the HMX EMO switch delivers a bouncy and satisfying typing experience with a light 46g bottom-out force, while the KTT Semi Mute switch offers a buttery and mild keystroke sensation. The EMO switch may provide a more lively and tactile feel, while the Semi Mute switch focuses on providing a smooth and uniform typing experience. Both switches aim to provide comfort and satisfaction to the user during typing sessions.
In conclusion, the HMX EMO linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The EMO switch caters to those who enjoy a lively and clacky typing experience, while the Semi Mute switch is tailored for individuals seeking a quieter and more buttery keystroke. Depending on personal preference and typing environment, users can choose between these switches to achieve their desired typing experience. If a user prefers a noise-free and smooth typing feel, the Semi Mute switch may provide similar results as the EMO switch in terms of overall satisfaction.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the HMX EMO linear switch or the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it all comes down to your preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a light and bouncy typing experience with a clacky feel, then the HMX EMO switch with its 46g bottom-out force is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value a noise-free environment and desire a comfortable and gratifying typing feel with advanced dampening technology, the KTT Semi Mute switch with its 58g bottom-out force is the perfect choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a livelier typing experience or a quieter, more neutral one. Ultimately, both switches offer unique advantages that cater to different typing preferences.
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