HMX EMO vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX EMO and TTC Speed Silver are two popular options to consider. 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 Speed Silver is known for its fast and precise typing experience, with a light-medium level of resistance and a reduced travel distance for quick and effortless actuation. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences - the EMO for those who enjoy a lighter, more tactile typing experience, and the Speed Silver for users looking for speed and precision. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 Speed Silver both utilize polycarbonate top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, as it allows for the passage of light. In contrast, the EMO's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer nature of nylon which absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing.
Both the EMO and Speed Silver feature polycarbonate top housings that offer similar benefits in terms of sound quality and aesthetic appeal. The use of polycarbonate results in a clearer and more resonant sound profile, making it ideal for those looking for a sharper typing experience. However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housings. The EMO's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, contrasting with the crisper sound produced by its polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the Speed Silver's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a deeper sound profile, offering a different typing experience than its polycarbonate top housing.
In terms of typing experience, the HMX EMO and TTC Speed Silver offer a combination of sharpness and depth in their sound profiles. The split between top and bottom housings allows for a nuanced typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate top housings for a clear and resonant sound, the difference in bottom housings between the EMO's nylon and the Speed Silver's nylon results in distinct typing experiences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for either a sharper or deeper sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, there are some key differences to consider. The EMO has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Speed Silver's 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. However, the EMO also has a lighter bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Speed Silver has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Speed Silver provides a more substantial typing experience, with a stronger push feel, compared to the EMO. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience and value being able to type for longer periods of time without fatigue, the EMO may be the better choice. On the other hand, the Speed Silver would be more suitable for those who prefer a heavier feel and a more tactile typing experience. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches play a significant role in the typing experience they offer, catering to different preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches offer relatively short travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. In this case, the TTC Speed Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the HMX EMO. Some users may find the shorter travel distance of the TTC Speed Silver to provide a more abrupt feel, while others may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the HMX EMO for a more substantial keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 offers a unique clacky sound that adds to the overall typing experience, while the TTC Speed Silver switch provides a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Both switches offer a pleasant auditory experience, although the EMO switch may cater more to those who enjoy a livelier typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO switch provides a bouncy and light typing experience with its 46g bottom-out force, making it effortless and satisfying to type on. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch offers a mild and polished feel with smooth key travel and reduced friction. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the EMO switch leaning towards a more lively and bouncy feel, while the Speed Silver switch provides a gentle and refined typing experience.
Overall, the HMX EMO linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The EMO switch provides a lively and clacky typing experience with a feather-light bottom-out force, while the Speed Silver switch offers a neutral sound profile and a polished feel that caters to a wide range of users. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique characteristics. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a lively and bouncy typing experience with a feather-light bottom-out force, the HMX EMO linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and precision with a light-medium level of resistance, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch would suit you better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a lighter or medium-light bottom-out force and the specific typing experience you value most. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, so consider your typing style and preferences when making your selection.
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