HMX EMO vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) stand out as top contenders in the linear switch category. The HMX EMO switch offers a lively, clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing an effortless and bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) is recognized for its extremely quiet sound profile, along with being super smooth and having a pillowy feel. While the EMO switch leans towards a more tactile typing experience, the Silent Frozen (V2) excels in delivering a silent and creamy feel. If you prioritize a clicky and responsive typing experience, the HMX EMO may be the way to go. However, if silence and smoothness are at the top of your list, then the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) might be the better choice. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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
Silver white spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2), it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, the EMO's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, while the Silent Frozen (V2)'s polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a clear and resonant sound profile like its top housing.
The contrasting factor between the HMX EMO and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) lies in their bottom housing material. While the EMO features a nylon bottom housing that creates a duller and rounder sound profile, the Silent Frozen (V2) opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, which maintains the sharp and crisp sound associated with this material. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the typing experience, as the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, both the HMX EMO and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) achieve similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal with their polycarbonate top housing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a clear and resonant sound, making it a popular material choice for top housings in switches. Whether it is the EMO with its nylon bottom housing for a deeper sound or the Silent Frozen (V2) with its polycarbonate bottom housing for a sharper sound, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, it is evident that both switches are relatively light in terms of force required. The EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Silent Frozen (V2) has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. Both switches provide a smooth typing experience due to their light actuation and bottom out forces. The EMO is slightly heavier compared to the Silent Frozen (V2) in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. When it comes to weight preferences, the EMO may be more suitable for those who prefer a slightly stronger push feel, while the Silent Frozen (V2) is ideal for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with minimal force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the HMX EMO linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch are both 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distances, it can be said that both switches offer the same amount of key travel when pressed down. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of key feel and responsiveness from both switches. Overall, whether you choose the HMX EMO linear switch or the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, you can expect to get similar results when it comes to 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 TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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 TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switch provides a thocky, low-pitched, and muted sound profile that minimizes noise, making it ideal for quieter environments. The choice of keycaps and keyboard design can also influence the overall sound output of the switches.
In terms of feel, the HMX EMO switch is known for its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, delivering a bouncy and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switch is characterized as creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished, providing a smooth and effortless typing sensation.
Considering all the available information, the HMX EMO switch is preferred for those seeking a more tactile and lively typing experience, while the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switch is recommended for individuals prioritizing a quiet and smooth typing feel. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users will get satisfying results based on their specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a lively, clacky feel with a slightly higher bottom-out force of 46 grams and a factory-lubed, bouncy typing experience, the EMO switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize an extremely quiet sound profile, smooth keystrokes, and a pillowy feel with a lower bottom-out force of 43 grams, the Silent Frozen (V2) switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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