HMX EMO vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and TTC Silent Red both offer unique features catering to different preferences. The HMX EMO switch is known for its lively and clacky feel, with a light 46g bottom-out force that provides a bouncy and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switch is renowned for its smooth and seamless typing experience, accompanied by a muted sound profile that is ideal for shared spaces. While the EMO switch offers a more vibrant typing experience, the Silent Red switch provides a quieter and more subtle feel. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX EMO and TTC Silent Red both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is also commonly used for clear housings, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the EMO has a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The split between the top and bottom housings means that the EMO offers a combination of sharpness and depth in its sound profile.
While both the EMO and Silent Red utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, the EMO stands out with its nylon bottom housing compared to the Silent Red's polycarbonate bottom. This difference results in the EMO offering a more well-rounded sound profile with a mix of sharpness and depth. The softer nature of nylon in the EMO's bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller but fuller sound when typing. In contrast, the all-polycarbonate construction of the Silent Red may lead to a sharper and crisper sound overall.
Ultimately, the choice between the HMX EMO and TTC Silent Red comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The EMO's combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings offers a unique blend of sharpness and depth, while the Silent Red's all-polycarbonate construction may provide a more consistent sharp and crisp sound. Both switches excel in their respective areas, with the EMO catering to those who appreciate a fuller sound profile and the Silent Red appealing to those who prefer a sharper tone. In terms of overall design and functionality, both switches are likely to deliver similar results in terms of durability and performance.
Weight
The HMX EMO linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the TTC Silent Red linear switch. The EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Silent Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it heavier in comparison. The lighter actuation force of the EMO switch may appeal to those who prefer a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Silent Red switch provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Silent Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the EMO. The difference of 0.2 mm may not seem significant, but it can impact how the key feels when pressed. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the EMO for faster response times, while those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the Silent Red. Overall, both switches offer unique experiences based on their travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 HMX EMO switch is known for its lively and clacky sound profile, which may not be suitable for quiet environments. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switch is specifically designed for a muted sound, making it ideal for office settings or shared spaces where noise is a concern. The difference in sound between the two switches can greatly influence the overall typing experience based on personal preference and the surrounding environment.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO switch offers a bouncy and smooth typing experience with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing a satisfying and effortless feel. In contrast, the TTC Silent Red switch is described as buttery, mild, and polished, offering a smooth and consistent typing sensation with a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfort. The feel of a switch is crucial to the overall typing experience, as it determines the feedback and ease of key presses, allowing users to find the perfect balance between tactile feedback and cushioned typing.
In conclusion, choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a lively and clacky sound profile with a bouncy typing experience, the HMX EMO switch might be the ideal choice. Alternatively, if you prioritize a muted sound profile with a smooth and consistent typing sensation, the TTC Silent Red switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users will get satisfying results based on their specific typing needs.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a lively and bouncy feel with a light 46g bottom-out force, the EMO switch is a great option. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and quiet typing experience with a medium-heavy 63.5g bottom-out force, the Silent Red switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and whether you prioritize a clacky feel or a muted sound profile in your mechanical keyboard. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns with your typing style and needs.
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