HMX EMO vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and the Akko V3 Silver Pro stand out as two popular choices, each offering distinct features to enhance your typing or gaming experience. The HMX EMO switch is praised for its lively and clacky feel, coupled with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, making it effortless and bouncy to type on. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches are tailored for gamers, providing a smooth and bassy keystroke with a light actuation force and shortened travel distance, ideal for quick and precise movements. While both switches have their unique advantages, such as the satisfying typing experience of the EMO or the gaming-oriented design of the V3 Silver Pro, diving deeper beyond these generalities will help you make the best decision for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX EMO and the Akko V3 Silver Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound overall. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. The similarities in their polycarbonate top housings ensure that users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics from both switches.
In contrast, the HMX EMO and the Akko V3 Silver Pro differ in their bottom housings, with the EMO featuring a nylon bottom housing and the V3 Silver Pro also utilizing nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches contributes to a duller and rounder sound when typing. Despite this difference in bottom housing material, both switches are likely to provide users with a satisfying typing experience thanks to the unique qualities of nylon.
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, it is important to consider how the different materials used for the top and bottom housings affect the overall typing experience. The qualities brought by each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch, impacting both the bottom-out sound and feel as well as the sound when releasing a key. This division ensures that users can experience a balance of sharpness and depth in the sound profiles of these switches, providing a diverse and enjoyable typing experience for different preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, we find that both switches have a similar actuation force of 40 grams. However, the EMO has a slightly higher bottom out force of 46 grams compared to the V3 Silver Pro's 45 grams. Both switches can be considered lightweight in terms of force required for typing. The lighter actuation force of these switches makes them ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming sessions where fatigue can be a concern. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the slightly heavier bottom out force of the EMO may provide a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or slightly heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the EMO has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Silver Pro. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, the EMO may provide a slightly deeper feeling when pressed compared to the V3 Silver Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a slightly longer or shorter 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 Akko V3 Silver 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 Silver 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 to produce a lively and clacky sound, creating a satisfying auditory feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is described as high-pitched, delivering a sharp and crisp sound when activated. Depending on personal preference, users may appreciate the rich and bassy sound of the EMO or opt for the sharpness of the V3 Silver Pro.
In terms of feel, the HMX EMO switch offers a bouncy and smooth typing experience with its feather-light 46g bottom-out force. This switch provides a satisfying and effortless feel, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is characterized by being easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky. These qualities enhance the typing experience by offering a light actuation force, smooth key travel, and reduced friction, making it comfortable for various typing scenarios.
Overall, both the HMX EMO linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The EMO provides a lively and clacky sound with a bouncy feel, while the V3 Silver Pro delivers a high-pitched sound and a smooth, low-impact typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a more tactile and lively typing experience or a smoother and quieter one, you can achieve similar results in terms of performance and satisfaction with both switches. Ultimately, it's important to consider your personal typing style, preferences, and the intended use of the keyboard when selecting between these options.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a bouncy and clacky typing experience with a light bottom-out force, the EMO may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a gamer seeking switches that offer a smooth gliding sensation, a pleasing bassy sound, and a light actuation force for faster response times, the V3 Silver Pro could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and the specific use case for the keyboard switches. Consider these factors carefully to choose the switch that best suits your typing or gaming style.
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